Envision Lakeville
Adopted by the City of Lakeville in 2013 and updated in 2018.
Vision Statement
We envision a welcoming, connected community with exceptional schools; a thriving local economy; outstanding natural and recreational opportunities; vibrant cultural institutions; safe neighborhoods; and responsive, cost-effective public services— a place we are proud to call home.
A Community Built on Growth and Vision
The story of Lakeville is one of steady progress, visionary leadership, and a commitment to preserving community while embracing growth. Founded in 1858, Lakeville began as a small agricultural community named for the beautiful lakes that define its landscape. For more than a century, it remained a quiet rural township where farming and close-knit neighborhoods shaped everyday life.
Everything changed during the 1960s. Between 1960 and 1970, Lakeville’ s population grew to 7,500 residents— more than twice the growth experienced during the previous 100 years. Much of this expansion came from young families seeking affordable homeownership opportunities.
Another transformational moment came in 1966 when Hitchcock Industries purchased 1,400 acres of farmland in southern Lakeville Township to create what would become Airlake Industrial Park. With direct access to Interstate 35, rail service, and a new airstrip, the development was destined to become a major economic engine. When the industrial park opened in 1967, it ushered in a new era of opportunity.
Recognizing the demands this rapid growth would place on infrastructure and public services, the Village and Township governments joined together, and in 1967, the City of Lakeville was born.
Today, Lakeville is home to more than 80,000 residents and continues to thrive by balancing economic growth, outstanding amenities, and the small-town charm and community spirit that have defined it for generations.
Current Demographics Area Population 79,270 ** Households 26,631 * County
39.66 sq. miles / 25,382 acres
Dakota
Population change since 2010 14.10 %**
Median Household Income $ 139,041 **
Median Home Value
Median Age 36.1 ** Unemployment Number of Businesses
Number of Jobs
$ 476,100( 2025) ^
3.30 % ^^ 1,637^^
Daytime Population 57,500 **
21,771 an increase of 33 % ^^
* Metropolitan Council ** U. S. Census Bureau ^Dakota County
^^ MN Department of Employment and Economic Development
Diversified Economic Development We value the stability and independence provided by a strong, diversified local economy.
Good Value for Public Services We value high quality public services delivered cost-effectively.
Safety Throughout the Community We value living in a community where people feel safe everywhere they go.
Design that Connects the Community
We value a well-designed community, and we place a priority on development that enhances connectivity and accommodates our changing needs.
High Quality Education We value and are committed to high quality education that sets us apart.
A Home for All Ages and Stages of Life We value living options for people of all ages and stages of life.
A Sense of Community and Belonging
We value the sense of belonging that comes from openness to others, and we honor the traditions and institutions that have made us the community we are today.
Access to a Multitude of Natural Amenities and Recreational Opportunities We value widespread access to nature, the outdoors and recreational opportunities of all kinds. lakevillechamber. org | 13