Steele

Welcome To

Steele

Steele County offers a quintessential Southern Minnesota experience, blending industrial productivity with deep-rooted agricultural traditions. Centered around Owatonna, the county is known for its historic architecture—including the world-famous "Jewel Box" bank—and its status as a regional hub for manufacturing and commerce. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with a landscape defined by rolling prairies, the Straight River, and a strong sense of civic pride. It is a place where you can find both a thriving career and a quiet, safe place to raise a family, all while staying connected to the Twin Cities via the I-35 corridor.

Overview for

Steele

  • 37,413

    Population

  • $287,775

    Average Home Price

  • $1,305/month

    Average Rent

Local Lifestyle

The lifestyle in Steele County is balanced and family-oriented. There is a strong emphasis on community involvement, evident in the well-maintained park systems and local theater groups. People here appreciate the "small-city" amenities of Owatonna—like the River Springs Water Park—without the congestion of the metro area. The pace is steady, supported by a robust local economy that keeps the community vibrant and growing.

Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping

Owatonna serves as the primary destination for dining and shopping. The historic downtown area features charming local boutiques and "main street" style dining, while the northern part of the city offers modern retail centers and familiar chains. You'll find everything from cozy coffee shops and old-fashioned bakeries to local taprooms and classic American grills. For entertainment, the Little Theatre of Owatonna provides high-quality local productions, and the Reptile & Amphibian Discovery Zoo (RAD Zoo) is a favorite for families.

Things You Can Do

The region offers a diverse range of activities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. You can spend a quiet morning exploring the marshy edges and vibrant wildflowers at Rice Lake State Park or take a deep dive into the area’s unique heritage with a tour of the Orphanage Museum and the historic buildings at the Village of Yesteryear. For those who prefer staying active, the extensive trail system at Morehouse Park is perfect for a summer bike ride or winter cross-country skiing. You can also hunt for deals at the Medford Outlet Center, enjoy a performance at the Little Theatre of Owatonna, or experience the high-energy atmosphere of the Steele County Free Fair, which stands as one of the largest outdoor events in the Midwest.

Schools in area

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