Anoka County sits just north and northwest of the core Twin Cities metropolitan area, and its major towns include Anoka (the county seat), Andover, Ham Lake, Blaine (partially in Anoka), and Coon Rapids (partially). Its history ties into early Dayton & rail settlement, then the suburban growth of Minneapolis. The environment is suburban to semi-rural in many parts, with residential subdivisions, town-homes, and some older single-family homes closer to the urban edge, while further out you will find acreage lots and more rural homes. Being so close to Minneapolis (Anoka County borders Hennepin County in places), the housing market is more active and values higher than remote counties. The average home value in nearby Hennepin County is around US $378,840. In Anoka County, you might expect existing homes in the mid-$300,000s to $500,000+ depending on town and proximity to transit or Twin Cities amenities; building a new home might cost from $400,000 to $700,000+ including lot, utilities, and build, particularly near developed subdivisions. Because the area is partly urban/suburban, consumer expectations include modern amenities, lower lot cost variation, and access to services. It appeals to those who work in the metro region but want more space, or prefer suburban living.