Inver Grove Heights, a city nestled along the eastern bank of the Mississippi River, has experienced significant economic growth and diversification in recent years. With a population exceeding 35,000 residents, the city offers a blend of suburban tranquility and economic vitality.
Economic Overview
The city’s economy is characterized by a mix of industries, with health care and social assistance, manufacturing, and professional, scientific, and technical services leading employment sectors. Notably, the median household income in Inver Grove Heights reached $104,055 in 2023, marking a 6.06% increase from 2020. This figure stands at 132.49% of the U.S. median household income, underscoring the city’s economic strength.
Local Businesses and Employment
Inver Grove Heights is home to a variety of businesses, ranging from family-owned establishments to major corporations. The city hosts the headquarters of CHS, Inc., an agricultural cooperative ranked 145th on the Fortune 500 list of U.S. corporations. Additionally, the Pine Bend Refinery, the largest oil refinery in Minnesota and the fourteenth largest in the U.S., operates within the city. Gertens Greenhouses, one of the largest garden centers in the United States, also calls Inver Grove Heights home.
In 2024, the city employed approximately 20,000 people, with office and administrative support occupations, management roles, and sales positions being the most common job categories. The city’s strategic location, just 15 miles southeast of the Twin Cities, provides residents with ample employment opportunities both within and beyond city limits.
Housing Market
The housing market in Inver Grove Heights reflects its economic growth. As of November 2025, the median price for a single-family home was $398,700, with a median Automated Valuation Model (AVM) value of $386,000 for properties sold in the last year. The city has seen a steady increase in home values, indicating a robust real estate market.
Community Development
The Economic Development Authority (EDA) plays a pivotal role in guiding the city’s growth. The EDA, staffed by the Community Development Director and presided over by Councilmember Sue Gliva, meets bi-monthly to discuss and implement strategies for economic advancement. These meetings are open to the public and are also televised, ensuring transparency and community involvement.
Inver Grove Heights continues to thrive as a community that balances economic development with quality of life, making it an attractive destination for residents and businesses alike.
