Fillmore County lies in southeastern Minnesota, a region known for its rolling hills, valleys, and limestone bluffs that define the scenic Root River Valley. Established in 1853, it’s one of Minnesota’s oldest counties, named after President Millard Fillmore. The county seat is Preston, though the larger towns Spring Valley, Harmony, Rushford, and Lanesboro are key centers of community life. Lanesboro, in particular, is a renowned tourism town, attracting visitors for biking, canoeing, and arts festivals. Housing here blends historic Victorian homes, newer single-family residences, farmhouses, and country estates. The area is mostly rural, but tourism and agriculture coexist smoothly. Proximity to Rochester (about 45 miles northwest) provides easy commuting options. Average home prices are typically $280,000–$360,000, with luxury acreage or remodeled river-view homes surpassing $500,000. Construction costs run around $325–$375 per sq ft, with demand rising for energy-efficient homes. The county’s charm lies in its small towns, scenic trails, and a strong sense of community surrounded by southeastern Minnesota’s most beautiful landscapes.