Hopkins, Minnesota

A Vibrant Twin Cities Community in Hennepin County

📍 Coordinates: 44.9434° N, 93.4040° W

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History of Hopkins

Hopkins, Minnesota, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The area was first settled in 1852, marking the beginning of what would become one of the Twin Cities' most vibrant suburban communities.

Early Settlement and Development

The community's growth accelerated significantly with the construction of the Minneapolis Threshing Machine Company in 1887. This industrial powerhouse would later become Minneapolis Moline in 1929, employing a substantial portion of Hopkins' population and serving as the economic backbone of the community for decades.

The Name Change

Originally known as West Minneapolis, the village was incorporated in 1893 when residents sent the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners a petition signed by 41 residents, asking that a separate village be formed from unincorporated portions of Minnetonka and Richfield Townships. With a population of 1,105, the community was officially incorporated as the Village of West Minneapolis.

In 1928, the village was renamed Hopkins in honor of Harley H. Hopkins, the area's first homesteader and postmaster. Mr. Hopkins played a crucial role in the community's development, allowing the town to build the train depot on his land in 1871 (now The Depot Coffee House) with the agreement that the train station would say "Hopkins" on it. In 1872, the post office was established with the same name. Chester L. Hopkins served as the first mayor of the newly renamed community.

City Incorporation

Hopkins officially became a city on December 2, 1947, after the adoption of its charter. The original village consisted of about three square miles and has been enlarged by annexation to its present size of approximately four square miles.

Cultural Heritage

Hopkins is home to Minnesota's oldest continuous festival, the Hopkins Raspberry Festival, which was inaugurated in 1934. This beloved annual celebration continues to draw thousands of visitors each year, celebrating the community's agricultural heritage and small-town charm.

Historic Landmark

The Former Minneapolis and St. Louis Railway Station, located at 9451 Excelsior Blvd, Hopkins, MN 55343, stands as a testament to Hopkins' railroad heritage and the community's connection to regional transportation networks that fueled its early growth.

Demographics - Statistical Information

Hopkins, Minnesota, is a diverse and vibrant community with a population that reflects the broader Twin Cities metropolitan area while maintaining its unique character.

Hopkins Population Statistics (2025)

18,309 Total Population
38.1 Median Age (Years)
$71,170 Median Household Income
9.97% Poverty Rate

Racial and Ethnic Composition

Hopkins is a diverse community with the following racial demographics based on the most recent census data:

  • White: 64.7% of the population
  • Black or African American: 19.7% of the population
  • Asian: 3.6% of the population
  • Two or More Races: 7.5% of the population
  • Native American: 0.2% of the population
  • Hispanic or Latino: 8.8% of the population (any race)

Economic Indicators

Income Statistics

Median Household Income: $71,170

Average Household Income: $93,471

Per Capita Income: $52,642

Housing & Homeownership

Homeownership Rate: 37.3%

Median Property Value: $350,100

Median Gross Rent: $1,346/month

Education & Employment

High School Graduate or Higher: 94.2%

Bachelor's Degree or Higher: 47%

Unemployment Rate: 5.1%

Population Characteristics

  • Average Household Size: 2.02 persons
  • Total Households: 9,523 households
  • Family Households: 43% of all households
  • Foreign-Born Population: 13.4% (approximately 2,500 residents)
  • Language Other Than English Spoken at Home: 22% of persons aged 5 years and older
  • Population Density: 4,697 inhabitants per square mile
  • Land Area: 4.08 square miles

Age Distribution

Hopkins has a balanced age distribution with a median age of 38.1 years:

  • Under 15 years: 17.4% of the population
  • 15 to 24 years: 6.8% of the population
  • 25 to 44 years: 35.2% of the population (largest age group)
  • 45 to 64 years: 22.6% of the population
  • 65 years and older: 18% of the population

Geographic Information

Location: Hopkins is located in Hennepin County, Minnesota

Coordinates: Latitude 44.9434° N, Longitude 93.4040° W

Metropolitan Area: Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI Metro Area

Average Commute Time: 18.9 minutes

Government & Politics

Hopkins operates under a council-manager form of government, with the city governed by elected officials who work in partnership with appointed city staff to serve the community's needs.

City of Hopkins

City Hall: 1010 1st Street South, Hopkins, MN 55343

Main Phone: (952) 939-1382

Address: 3 11th Ave S, Hopkins, MN 55343 (Alternative Address)

Government Agencies and Contacts

Hopkins residents have access to comprehensive government services at the local, county, and state levels:

  • State of Minnesota Natural Resources Department
    Phone: (651) 966-4157
    Location: Hopkins, MN 55305
  • Minnesota Department of Administration
    Phone: (651) 201-2555
    Address: 50 Sherburne Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55155
  • Hennepin County Government
    Serving Hopkins and the broader metropolitan area
  • Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management
    Regulatory oversight for cannabis dispensaries including Hopkins Dispensary
    Website: cannabis.mn.gov

Political Representation

Hopkins is currently represented by officials serving Minnesota at the state and federal levels:

  • U.S. Senators: Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith
  • State Legislature: Representatives from Hennepin County districts
  • Local Government: Hopkins City Council and elected officials

Civic Engagement

Hopkins encourages active civic participation through city council meetings, community forums, and various boards and commissions. Residents can stay informed about local government activities through the city's official website and community communications.

Companies & Economy

Hopkins boasts a diverse and thriving economy with major employers spanning healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and professional services. The city's strategic location in the Twin Cities metro area makes it an attractive hub for businesses of all sizes.

Major Employers in Hopkins

UnitedHealth Group

Industry: Healthcare Services

Address: 9900 Bren Road E, Hopkins, MN 55343

National healthcare and insurance leader headquartered in Hopkins, one of the largest employers in the region

Thermotech Inc

Industry: Plastic Manufacturing

Address: 1300 Hopkins Crossroad, Hopkins, MN 55343

Leading manufacturer of plastic products serving industrial and commercial markets

Umi Company Inc

Industry: Plastic Products Manufacturing

Established: Incorporated in Hopkins since 1981

Long-standing manufacturing presence contributing to Hopkins' industrial sector

  • Encompass - Healthcare Services provider offering comprehensive medical solutions
  • Concord - IT and Consulting services firm serving regional clients
  • Hopkins Dispensary - Premier licensed cannabis retailer at 415 17th Ave, Hopkins, MN 55343

Economic Indicators

Hopkins maintains a healthy economy with diverse employment opportunities:

  • Working Population: 10,262 residents employed across various sectors
  • Professional/Administrative Positions: 82.6% of workforce
  • Self-Employed Entrepreneurs: 8.7% of working population
  • Private Sector Employment: 74.1% of workforce
  • Public Sector Employment: 9.1% of workforce

Business Environment

Hopkins provides a supportive environment for businesses with:

  • Strategic location with access to major highways (US Route 169 and Minnesota State Highway 7)
  • Proximity to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport
  • Skilled workforce with high educational attainment
  • Vibrant downtown business district along Mainstreet
  • Active Hopkins Business and Civic Association

Hopkins Business and Civic Association

Address: P.O. Box 425, Hopkins, MN 55343

Supporting local businesses and fostering economic development in Hopkins

Colleges & Universities

Hopkins and the surrounding Twin Cities area offer exceptional educational opportunities at all levels, from elementary through higher education.

Hopkins School District

The Hopkins School District serves all or parts of seven Minneapolis west suburban communities: Hopkins, Minnetonka, Golden Valley, Plymouth, Edina, Eden Prairie, and Saint Louis Park. Approximately 8,100 students attend the district's schools:

  • Seven Elementary Schools (K–5th grade)
  • Two Middle Schools (6th–8th grade) including Hopkins West Junior High School
  • One High School (9th–12th grade) - Hopkins High School located at 1101 W Highway 7

Private and Specialized Schools

The Blake School

Large private school founded in Hopkins with multiple campuses throughout the Twin Cities. The Hopkins campus houses the Middle School and one of its Lower Schools.

Ubah Academy

Address: 1600 Main St, Hopkins, MN 55343

Phone: (952) 540-2942

Charter school serving Hopkins community

Mainstreet School of Performing Arts (MSSPA)

Specialized performing arts school focusing on music, dance, and theater

Nearby Higher Education Institutions

Hopkins residents have convenient access to premier colleges and universities in the Twin Cities metro area:

  • University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
    Distance: Approximately 10 miles from Hopkins
    Address: Minneapolis, MN
    Full-time Enrollment: 43,506 students
    Flagship public research university
  • University of St. Thomas
    Distance: Approximately 11 miles from Hopkins
    Address: Saint Paul, MN
    Full-time Enrollment: 8,762 students
    Private Catholic university
  • Minneapolis College
    Address: 1501 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403
    Community college offering associate degrees and certificates
  • Normandale Community College
    Address: 9700 France Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55431
    Comprehensive two-year college serving the western metro area

Educational Attainment

Hopkins residents demonstrate high levels of educational achievement:

  • High School Graduate or Higher: 94.2% of adults aged 25+
  • Bachelor's Degree or Higher: 47% of adults
  • Associate Degree: 7.6% of population

Hopkins Community Education

Hopkins Public Schools offers comprehensive community education programs for residents of all ages, including adult classes, youth programs, and lifelong learning opportunities. Many classes are held at the Hopkins Center for the Arts.

Transportation & Public Transit

Hopkins benefits from exceptional transportation infrastructure and connectivity, making it easy to access the broader Twin Cities metropolitan area and beyond.

Highway Access

Hopkins is strategically located with access to major regional highways:

  • U.S. Route 169: Major north-south highway providing direct access throughout the metro area
  • Minnesota State Highway 7: Key east-west corridor connecting Hopkins to Minneapolis and western suburbs

Metro Transit Bus Service

Hopkins is well-served by Metro Transit's comprehensive bus network:

  • Route #12: Regular service with stops throughout Hopkins
  • Key Stops: Red Circle Dr & Shady Oak Rd | Bren Rd W & Feltl Rd
  • Multiple routes connecting Hopkins to Minneapolis, St. Paul, and surrounding communities

METRO Green Line Extension (Southwest LRT)

Future Transit Enhancement

Hopkins will have three stations on the METRO Green Line Extension, a 14.5-mile light rail line enhancing regional connectivity by 2030:

  • Shady Oak Road Station
  • Downtown Hopkins Station
  • Blake Road Station

This expansion will provide fast, reliable transit connections to Minneapolis, the Twin Cities airport, and the broader metro area.

Transit Link Dial-A-Ride Service

Service: Curb-to-curb public transportation

Phone: (651) 602-5465

Accessible transportation service for Hopkins residents

Rail Service

Hopkins has historical connections to rail transportation:

  • Twin Cities and Western Railroad: Main line runs along the southern end of Hopkins
  • Former Minneapolis and St. Louis Railway Station: Historic landmark at 9451 Excelsior Blvd, Hopkins, MN 55343

Regional Trail System

Hopkins has the unique distinction of being the trailhead for four Three Rivers Park regional trails, providing extensive recreational and alternative transportation options for cyclists and pedestrians.

Commute Statistics

Average Commute Time: 18.9 minutes (significantly below metro average)

Primary Mode: Majority of residents drive alone to work

Hopkins' central location and excellent highway access contribute to shorter-than-average commute times

Arts & Culture

Hopkins has established itself as a vibrant cultural destination in the Twin Cities, with world-class arts facilities, annual festivals, and a thriving creative community.

Hopkins Center for the Arts

Regional Arts Destination

Address: 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343

Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-8pm, Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm (Extended hours for special events)

Opened: November 1997

The Hopkins Center for the Arts is a focal point for arts, culture, and entertainment in Hopkins and surrounding communities. Building community through the arts, it offers artistic and educational opportunities for people of all ages. The Center welcomes over 220,000 people through its doors annually and serves as a vital community gathering place.

Facilities and Amenities

  • Hopkins Mainstage Theater: 715-seat theater hosting concerts, theater performances, and special events
  • Black-Box Theater: Intimate performance space for experimental and smaller productions
  • Art Galleries: Multiple gallery spaces featuring local, national, and international artists
  • Dance Studio: Professional-grade facilities for classes and rehearsals
  • Classrooms: Educational spaces for Hopkins Community Education classes
  • Meeting and Multi-Purpose Spaces: Available for community events and private rentals

Programming and Events

The Hopkins Center for the Arts offers a diverse calendar of events throughout the year:

  • Mainstage Concert Series: Nationally recognized musical talent in an intimate setting
  • Visual Arts Exhibitions: Rotating displays featuring works from around the world
  • Artist Talks: Free educational programs with featured artists
  • Artful Book Club: Community literary discussions
  • Sunset Series: Free outdoor summer concerts for the community
  • ArtStreet Public Art Program: Sculptures and installations throughout Hopkins
  • Theater Productions: Home to Stages Theatre Co. and other performing arts groups
  • Hopkins Community Education Classes: Wide variety of arts instruction for all ages

Annual Cultural Events

Hopkins Raspberry Festival

Established: 1934

Distinction: Minnesota's oldest continuous festival

This beloved annual celebration attracts thousands of visitors each year, featuring parades, live music, carnival rides, local vendors, and community activities celebrating Hopkins' heritage.

  • Studio West Arts Tour: Annual open studio event showcasing local artists
  • Annual Invitational (ANI) Exhibition: 31+ year highly competitive international juried exhibition featuring artists from throughout the United States and abroad
  • Members' Fall Juried Exhibition: Showcase of work by Friends of Hopkins Center for the Arts member artists
  • Minnesota Artists Association Exhibition: Celebrating 89+ years, featuring juried selection of current MAA members

Public Art

Hopkins demonstrates its commitment to arts through:

  • Hopkins ArtStreet Program: Public art sculptures displayed throughout downtown Hopkins
  • Mainstreet Banners: Seasonal artistic displays welcoming visitors
  • Murals: Large-scale artwork enhancing the community's visual landscape

Location and Accessibility

The Hopkins Center for the Arts is located on Mainstreet in downtown Hopkins, within walking distance of numerous restaurants, shops, and free parking. The Center is committed to accessibility and inclusivity, offering:

  • Audio-described performances for individuals with visual impairments
  • Sign language-interpreted performances for individuals with hearing impairments
  • Discounted tickets for low-income individuals and families
  • Accessible facilities and accommodations

Friends of Hopkins Center for the Arts

Community members can support arts programming by becoming members of the Friends of Hopkins Center for the Arts. Membership benefits include discounted tickets, inclusion in member exhibitions, and free admission to many special events.

Parks & Outdoors

Hopkins takes great pride in its extensive parks and recreational facilities. The City of Hopkins Public Works Department maintains 19 parks and nature areas, representing a large percentage of the city's 4 square miles. Hopkins also serves as the trailhead for four Three Rivers Park regional trails, providing residents and visitors with exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities.

Major Parks and Facilities

Hopkins Central Park

Address: 101 16th Ave S, Hopkins, MN 55343

Size: 17.9 acres

Reservations: (952) 939-8390

Features: Four tennis courts, pickleball courts, ice skating rink, outdoor hockey rink, soccer/football field, softball field, playground, picnic shelter, walking trails, open field, restrooms

Hopkins Pavilion

Address: 11000 Excelsior Boulevard, Hopkins, MN 55343

Phone: (952) 548-6390

Hours: 7 days a week, 6am-10pm

Premier facility offering indoor ice skating (fall/winter), indoor turf (spring), and dry floor (summer) for multiple sports and events

Shady Oak Beach

Attended by over 40,000 people each summer

Popular swimming and beach recreation destination managed by Hopkins-Minnetonka Recreation Services

Complete Parks List

  • Hopkins Central Park - 101 16th Ave S, Hopkins, MN 55343
  • Alden Park - 13347 Excelsior Blvd, Hopkins, MN 55343
  • Downtown Park - 40 Ninth Ave S, Hopkins, MN 55343 (Reservations: 952-548-6486)
  • Ford Park - 16600 Ford Road, Hopkins, MN 55343
  • Cottageville Park - 600 Blake Rd N, Hopkins, MN 55343
  • Meadow Park - 481 15th Ave N, Hopkins, MN 55343
  • Mayflower Park - Hopkins, MN (Well-maintained walking paths)
  • Big Willow Park - Popular community recreation area
  • Aquila Park - Neighborhood park with amenities
  • Rosland Park - Community gathering space
  • Wolfe Park - Recreational facilities

Recreation Services

Hopkins-Minnetonka Recreation Services

Phone: (952) 939-8390 (General) | (952) 939-8203 (Program Information)

Joint venture between the cities of Hopkins and Minnetonka providing comprehensive recreation programs year-round

Recreation Programs and Activities

Hopkins-Minnetonka Recreation Services offers extensive programming for all ages:

Youth Programs

  • Tennis instruction and clinics
  • Golf lessons
  • Swimming programs
  • Ball skills development
  • Arts and crafts classes
  • Youth sports leagues (basketball and soccer)

Adult Programs

  • Team sports: Soccer, softball, basketball, volleyball, hockey, broomball, and football
  • Fitness and wellness classes
  • Recreational activities in various areas of interest

Seasonal Offerings

  • Winter Ice Rinks: 14 supervised outdoor ice rinks throughout Hopkins and Minnetonka (Mid-December through mid-February, weather dependent)
  • Summer Programs: Shady Oak Beach operations, outdoor sports leagues, summer camps
  • Year-Round: Hopkins Pavilion multi-sport facility

Regional Trails

Hopkins is uniquely positioned as the trailhead for four Three Rivers Park regional trails, offering residents access to an extensive network of paved paths for walking, running, and cycling throughout the western Twin Cities metro area.

Community Engagement

Adopt a Park or Trail Program

The City of Hopkins seeks individuals or groups willing to help care for neighborhood parks and trails. Participants commit to picking up litter in their chosen park or trail a minimum of one time per month, fostering community pride and environmental stewardship.

Hopkins publishes three seasonal recreation brochures per year with comprehensive listings of activities, programs, and events. Current recreation activities and registration information are available through the city's website and recreation services office.

Famous Landmarks

Hopkins preserves its rich history through several notable landmarks that reflect the community's heritage and development over more than 170 years.

Hopkins Commercial Historic District

National Register of Historic Places

Location: Mainstreet, between 8th and 11th Avenues

Designation: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places

This charming historic district features beautifully preserved brick buildings housing antique shops, restaurants, boutiques, and businesses. The district exemplifies small-town Minnesota architecture and serves as the heart of downtown Hopkins' vibrant commercial area.

Historic Structures

Former Minneapolis and St. Louis Railway Station

Address: 9451 Excelsior Blvd, Hopkins, MN 55343

Historic railway station representing Hopkins' important connection to regional railroad networks that facilitated the community's early growth and development

The Depot Coffee House

Historic Significance: Original 1871 train depot built on Harley H. Hopkins' land

This building marks the birthplace of the Hopkins name - the depot was built with the agreement that it would say "Hopkins" on it, leading to the establishment of the post office in 1872

Old Minnetonka Mills Village Hall

Address: 13231 Minnetonka Dr, Hopkins, MN 55343

Historic municipal building preserving Hopkins' governmental heritage

Iconic Landmarks

  • Hopkins Clocktower
    Location: 9th and Mainstreet intersection
    Iconic timepiece serving as a downtown Hopkins landmark and popular meeting point
  • Hopkins Center for the Arts
    Address: 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343
    Opened: November 1997
    Modern architectural landmark serving as the cultural heart of Hopkins
  • Hopkins Pavilion
    Address: 11000 Excelsior Boulevard, Hopkins, MN 55343
    Premier recreational facility and one of the finest of its kind in the Twin Cities area

Downtown Hopkins

The vibrant Mainstreet corridor serves as Hopkins' historic and commercial center, featuring:

  • Beautifully preserved historic brick buildings
  • Unique local shops and antique stores
  • Diverse dining establishments
  • Hopkins Center for the Arts as cultural anchor
  • Free public parking in convenient ramps and lots
  • Walkable pedestrian-friendly streets
  • Public art installations through the ArtStreet program

Hopkins Heritage

Hopkins takes great pride in preserving its historical character while embracing modern development. The blend of historic landmarks, cultural facilities, and contemporary amenities creates a unique community identity that attracts both longtime residents and newcomers to the area.

Additional Local Resources

Hopkins offers comprehensive community resources, civic organizations, and support services to enhance quality of life for all residents.

Civic Organizations

Hopkins Area Jaycees

Address: P.O. Box 868, Hopkins, MN 55343

Phone: (952) 931-0132

Community leadership organization providing networking and service opportunities

Hopkins Business and Civic Association

Address: P.O. Box 425, Hopkins, MN 55343

Supporting local businesses and fostering economic development in Hopkins

Friends of Hopkins Center for the Arts

Location: 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN 55343

Supporting arts programming through membership and community engagement

Community Support Services

  • ResourceWest
    Location: Wells Fargo Building, 1011 First St S, Hopkins, MN 55343
    Comprehensive community resources and support services
  • United Way 2-1-1
    Phone: Dial 211 or (651) 291-0211
    Free, confidential information and referral service connecting people to community resources 24/7

City Services and Departments

City of Hopkins

Main Office: 1010 1st Street South, Hopkins, MN 55343

Phone: (952) 939-1382

Key Departments:

  • Public Works Department - Parks and facilities maintenance
  • Community Development
  • Police Department
  • Fire Department
  • Hopkins-Minnetonka Recreation Services: (952) 939-8390

Healthcare and Emergency Services

Hopkins residents have access to comprehensive healthcare services:

  • UnitedHealth Group headquarters at 9900 Bren Road E
  • Encompass Healthcare Services
  • Multiple medical clinics and healthcare providers
  • Emergency services through Hopkins Police and Fire Departments

Public Libraries

Hennepin County Library system serves Hopkins with nearby locations providing books, digital resources, community programs, and educational services.

Community Communications

  • Hopkins Community Resource and Resident Guide: Comprehensive guide available online and in print
  • City Website: www.hopkinsmn.com - Official city information and services
  • Recreation Brochures: Three seasonal publications with program listings
  • Community Events Calendar: Updated listings of local events and activities

Utilities and Infrastructure

  • Electric, gas, water, and sewer services
  • Solid waste and recycling collection
  • Cable and internet service providers
  • Telecommunications infrastructure

Community Engagement

Hopkins encourages resident participation through:

  • City Council meetings and public forums
  • Boards and commissions service opportunities
  • Volunteer programs (Adopt a Park/Trail, community events)
  • Neighborhood associations
  • Annual community celebrations and festivals

Cannabis Services

Hopkins Dispensary

Address: 415 17th Ave, Hopkins, MN 55343

Website: hopkinsdispensary.com

Email: info@hopkinsdispensary.com

Premier licensed cannabis dispensary serving Hopkins and the Twin Cities metro area. Offering premium cannabis flower, edibles, vapes, concentrates, and expert guidance in a professional, welcoming environment.