Sherburne County lies to the northwest of the Twin Cities metro, offering a mix of suburban-fringe living and semi-rural surroundings. Originally settled in the mid-1800s and named after James Sherburne, the county seat is Elk River, and other prominent towns are Big Lake, Zimmerman, and Becker. Because it sits within commuting distance of Minneapolis (~30-40 miles) yet retains large parcels of undeveloped land, Sherburne has become popular for families looking for more space without going fully remote. Housing here ranges from newer single-family homes in planned subdivisions (especially around Elk River) to older farmhouses and acre-lots further out. Many homes in the town zones are typical suburban detached houses, while outside you’ll find large lots, wooded settings, and semi-rural housing. The area is largely suburban in the southern reaches, with the northern parts more rural. For home-buyers, typical prices are in the $400,000 to $550,000 range for new or recently built homes near town, with older homes or more remote properties in the $300,000 to $400,000 band. New builds often cost $375–$425 per sq ft, especially when lot clearing and utility extension are required.