For those who’re planning on transferring to Minnesota, add these cities to your record.
Typically referred to as the Land of 10,000 lakes (there are literally 14,380 lakes complete), Minnesota is an enormous, lush state stuffed with prairies, forests, hills, and loads of water. Actually, 6% of Minnesota is roofed by water, greater than every other state.
Located between Wisconsin and the Dakotas, Minnesota’s glacier-carved panorama gives wonders at each flip, from giant rivers and waterfalls to lakeside bluffs. The geography is ideal for all kinds of outside actions year-round. Climbing, biking, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and fishing are particularly fashionable amongst locals. The terrain can be nice for agriculture – the state is among the many high crop and livestock producers within the nation.
As a consequence of its flat topography, Minnesota’s local weather is very variable, usually seeing heat, humid summers and chilly, snowy winters. Nonetheless, the nearer you get to Lake Superior, the milder it usually will get. Within the winter, although, Lake Superior can push temperatures down alongside its coasts.
So, which cities within the North Star State are the most effective? On this Redfin article, we’ve uncovered the most effective locations to reside in Minnesota, rating them on qualities corresponding to affordability, navigability, and variety of facilities. Yow will discover extra details about our methodology right here or on the backside of the article.
The very best locations to reside in Minnesota
Minneapolis, MN
Saint Paul, MN
Duluth, MN
Richfield, MN
Moorhead, MN
Roseville, MN
Saint Cloud, MN
Saint Louis Park, MN
Golden Valley, MN
Crystal, MN
1. Minneapolis, MN
Inhabitants:425,115Median Sale Worth:$380,000Median Hire Worth:$1,500Average Commute Time:22.5 minutesUnemployment Charge:3.9%
Minneapolis tops our record as the most effective place to reside in Minnesota. Comparatively inexpensive housing prices, easy accessibility to pure recreation, and ample facilities helped the town earn high marks. Folks have taken benefit of this, too, with its inhabitants having fun with regular development.
Located alongside the Mississippi River, Minneapolis is commonly referred to as the “Twin Cities” with neighboring Saint Paul. The world was traditionally house to the Dakota and Ojibwe peoples, and immediately is thought for its pure magnificence, industrial historical past, and culinary delights. 55 museums, dozens of enormous parks, and a number of faculties dot the panorama.
Minneapolis’ navigability could also be its highest quality. It’s probably the most bikeable metropolis within the nation, and has a sturdy public transportation community. A lot of the town’s navigability might be attributed to its flat terrain and interconnected parks and trails. There are additionally 16 miles of protected bikeways and greenways, probably the most well-known of which is alongside the Nice River Highway and over the historic Stone Arch Bridge. The enduring Skyway system even permits for walkability throughout the chilly winter months.
Parks and pure magnificence are one other big boon – the town was designed with them in thoughts. Right now, this implies irrespective of the place you reside in Minneapolis, you’re by no means six blocks from open inexperienced house. A lot of the Mississippi River is flanked by linked greenways and parks, too. Saint Anthony Falls and Minnehaha Falls are among the many hottest spots.
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2. Saint Paul, MN
Inhabitants:303,820Median Sale Worth:$295,000Median Hire Worth:$1,500Average Commute Time:22.3 minutesUnemployment Charge:3.5%
The capital of Minnesota, Saint Paul takes the second spot on our record. The slower-paced twin metropolis is positioned simply east of Minneapolis and has a colonial historical past courting again to 1858 – additional for those who depend French settlements. This historical past is mirrored in its streets, buildings, and parks, particularly Summit Avenue, the Cathedral of Saint Paul, and Rice Park, which is older than Central Park.
Together with a wealthy historical past, St. Paul additionally boasts a extra inexpensive price of residing than Minneapolis: Home costs are $85,000 decrease, whereas lease costs are equal. And also you don’t have to surrender entry to facilities, downtown hotspots, or quiet, residential neighborhoods, both. Como Park and Saint Anthony Park are two fashionable neighborhoods in northwest St. Paul with easy accessibility to transit and trails.
Much like Minneapolis, St. Paul is chock stuffed with pedestrian paths, parks, and riverfront views. Actually, St. Paul has a good longer Mississippi Riverfront than its twin, coming in at 26 miles. Most of that’s lined with greenways and parks, with Harriet Island, Crosby Farm, and Lilydale Regional Parks among the many highlights. Historic Fort Snelling is simply throughout the river, too.
Commuting into Minneapolis is straightforward by way of the Inexperienced Line, or by bike alongside one in all dozens of trails. Driving might take a bit throughout rush hour, although.
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3. Duluth, MN
Inhabitants:87,680Median Sale Worth:$310,000Median Hire Worth:$1,145Average Commute Time:17.1 minutesUnemployment Charge:3.3%
Among the many coldest and snowiest cities within the nation, Duluth is available in because the third-best place to reside in Minnesota. Identified for its trade and pure magnificence, there’s rather a lot to like concerning the metropolis. A really inexpensive price of residing, thriving financial system, and plethora of facilities helped give Duluth excessive marks.
Duluth’s id has lengthy been intertwined with the area’s ample pure assets. Logging, farming, and mining have all formed the world’s panorama and financial system, and Duluth’s delivery port on Lake Superior gave it entry to each the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This abundance helped the town develop into among the many richest on the earth on the flip of the twentieth century. G
Large lake-bound cargo ships often known as Lakers are nonetheless a daily sight within the metropolis. Make certain to catch them passing underneath the Aerial Raise Bridge. Another highlights of the town embrace visiting the Duluth Farmers Market and the town’s historic downtown, grabbing a chew to eat within the Canal Park District, and procuring at Lincoln Park.
Duluth has really been seeing a renaissance these days, as folks take into account transferring to the Nice Lakes and Rust Belt areas to flee the worst of local weather change. Duluth particularly is commonly referred to as a local weather haven attributable to clear air and cooling winds from Lake Superior, decreasing the danger of wildfires and excessive warmth. Minnesota can be usually water-secure and has little chance of earthquakes. Nonetheless, whereas these elements may help shield in opposition to elements like drought and infrastructure injury, nowhere is immune from local weather dangers.
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4. Richfield, MN
Inhabitants:36,445Median Sale Worth:$371,000Median Hire Worth:$1,295Average Commute Time:23.2 minutesUnemployment Charge:3.6%
A suburb of Minneapolis simply south of the town. Richfield has sturdy agricultural roots and grew shortly as Minneapolis expanded post-WWII. As such, many properties within the space have been constructed within the Nineteen Fifties. Right now, Richfield is a quiet haven within the heart of a metropolis identified for its nice location, small-town attraction, and native facilities. Town’s price of residing is similar to Minneapolis however costlier than locations like Saint Paul and Crystal.
Richfield is conveniently positioned subsequent to the Minneapolis-Saint Paul Worldwide Airport and the Mall of America®, however there’s loads extra to see as nicely. For instance, Southdale Middle and Southtown are fashionable hotspots stuffed with eating places and procuring, whereas the Richfield Ice Enviornment is nice for hockey observe. Tous Les Jours and Andale Taqueria are two nice eating places within the space. And for those who’re on the job hunt, Greatest Purchase’s world headquarters are within the heart of city.
Importantly, airplane noises are fairly fixed throughout the day all through the town. Insulating your house and including soundproofing might assist cut back the annoyance.
Unsurprisingly, parks are ample, too. Among the most beloved spots within the space embrace Fort Snelling State Park, Mound Springs Park, and Wooden Lake. Plus, you’re not removed from the famend Chain of Lakes Regional Park and its 16 miles of pedestrian and bike trails. As with all Twin Cities suburbs, biking is a breeze each into downtown and all all through the area.
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5. Moorhead, MN
Inhabitants:45,202Median Sale Worth:$247,000Median Hire Worth:$1,090Average Commute Time:17.2 minutesUnemployment Charge:2.7%
Situated on the border of North Dakota in northwest Minnesota, Moorhead is available in at quantity 5 on our record. A city rooted in agriculture, Moorhead is thought for its small-town really feel, suburban properties, and quiet residential streets. Moorhead might be nice for these in search of an inexpensive place to reside subsequent to a bigger metropolis – it’s throughout the Fargo, ND metropolitan space. Minnesota State College additionally has a campus within the metropolis, offering a youthful, college-town vibe.
Facilities in Moorhead are pretty restricted, however there are nonetheless loads of spots to get along with mates. For instance, quite a few parks and greenways are located alongside the winding Crimson River, together with Gooseberry Mound Park, Lindenwood Park, and the River Hall trails. And simply throughout the river in Fargo are loads of bars and eating places, like Bismarck Tavern, Rick’s Bar, and Sidestreet Grille & Pub.
Importantly, Moorhead is located within the historic Crimson River Valley, which is the flattest, driest area in Minnesota. As such, it’s additionally extra susceptible to wildfires and flooding. It’s arduous to beat the huge open prairie views and luxurious riverbanks, although.
As a result of area’s flat terrain, climate circumstances can change quickly. Thunderstorms are widespread in the summertime, whereas snow storms can happen within the winter. Freezing air from Canada may make winters exceptionally chilly. For those who’re planning on transferring to the world, be ready for all 4 seasons, and get your snow tires prepared.
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6. Roseville, MN
Inhabitants:35,451Median Sale Worth:$378,000Median Hire Worth:$1,310Average Commute Time:20.5 minutesUnemployment Charge:2.6%
Simply north of Minneapolis, Roseville is a historic metropolis stuffed with greenery and group spirit. Much like most Twin Cities suburbs, Roseville grew shortly following WWII and immediately is thought for its navigability and huge parks. Residing in Roseville means you’re near every thing, however far sufficient away to get pleasure from your quiet neighborhood. Rosedale Middle is the guts of the city and has every thing you want.
Nonetheless, choices for nightlife, visiting locally-owned outlets, or hanging with a good friend at a espresso store or bar are restricted; most shops and eating places are chains. There are nonetheless highlights, although. Supply Comics & Video games and Gamezenter present enjoyable tabletop gaming occasions for folks of all ages, whereas Hoggsbreath and Lisbeth’s Cafe & Restaurant serve hearty and worldwide delicacies. Most individuals nonetheless head into Minneapolis or St. Paul for a enjoyable day trip, although.
With almost 700 acres of parks and 37.6 miles of biking and working trails, it’s enjoyable to get round and not using a automobile in Roseville. Even so, public transportation into the Twin Cities is restricted, and most residents personal vehicles. Among the hottest parks within the metropolis embrace Central Park, the Harriet Alexander Nature Middle, and Reservoir Woods Park. The Muriel Sahlin Arboretum throughout from the character heart is a good place to loosen up, too.
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7. Saint Cloud, MN
Inhabitants:71,013Median Sale Worth:$285,000Median Hire Worth:$880Average Commute Time:20.3 minutesUnemployment Charge:5.2%
The hub of central Minnesota, Saint Cloud is a small faculty city identified for its granite quarries, historic downtown, and verdant parks. Pure magnificence is likely one of the main promoting factors within the metropolis, in addition to St. Cloud College. Town sits on the Mississippi and is surrounded by flat open plains, groves of timber, and wooded streams. Superb affordability and a rising financial system are different main pluses.
For a small faculty metropolis, there’s loads to do on the town. The various blocks that make up Downtown St. Cloud comprise greater than 45 eating places, together with the Olde Brick Home and Jules’ Bistro, together with greater than 60 outlets, like Fitzharris and Books Revisited. And within the century-old Jones & Lengthy Facades constructing, Granite Metropolis Comics and Video games makes for a enjoyable evening out. For those who want extra choices, you’re simply over an hour from the Twin Cities.
Parks and inexperienced areas are in all places, too. Essentially the most well-known ones are Munsinger Gardens and Heritage Park, that are nice for picnics and leisurely strolls. Nonetheless, winters might be fairly chilly, making it tough to expertise the outside for a couple of months a yr. Fortunately, the town takes benefit of those colder months by turning some public spades into ice skating rinks. Lake George is probably the most well-known, however ten different parks do the identical.
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8. Saint Louis Park, MN
Inhabitants:49,697Median Sale Worth:$395,000Median Hire Worth:$1,605Average Commute Time:20.5 minutesUnemployment Charge:1.8%
Simply west of Minneapolis, Saint Louis Park is the eighth metropolis on our record of the most effective locations to reside in Minnesota. St. Louis Park is stuffed with persona, public artwork, and quiet residential streets. It additionally manages to be extra inexpensive than surrounding suburbs with out sacrificing comfort or facilities. Freeway 100 runs proper to close by suburbs, and Interstate 394 to the north goes to downtown Minneapolis. Huge trails and huge open areas crisscross the town, too.
Remarkably, 11.5% of St. Louis Park is dedicated to parks and trails, with 52 complete parks in simply the town correct. The Westwood Hills Nature Middle and Meadowbrook Park are the biggest parks, whereas Bass Lake has a brief path meandering via prairies and savannah. And longer trails just like the Cedar Lake Regional Path permit you to bike to close by Hopkins or Downtown Minneapolis with out an excessive amount of hassle. Many occasions are held at metropolis parks, too.
St. Louis Park doesn’t have a correct downtown, however The Retailers at West Finish have almost every thing you’ll want. Costco, House Depot, enterprise places of work, and extra are all there. Native eating places on the town embrace Brito’s Burritos and Ariana Kabob & Gyro.
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9. Golden Valley, MN
Inhabitants:21,211Median Sale Worth:$447,000Median Hire Worth:$1,430Average Commute Time:20.7 minutesUnemployment Charge:1.5%
An upscale Twin Cities suburb, Golden Valley is ninth on our record. Enormous parks, open streets, and nice, inexperienced forests adorn the town’s structure. Outstanding comfort is a promoting level as nicely, with easy accessibility to downtown Minneapolis and every thing else you want. Nonetheless, the price of residing is larger than most surrounding cities, which is why it’s decrease on the record.
Lat14 Asian Eatery and Nong’s Thai are beloved eating places within the space, with many extra a brief drive away. Most eating places are positioned in strip malls, however don’t let that take away from their scrumptious menus.
Parks make up greater than 15% of the town’s footprint, totaling over 1,000 acres so that you can discover. Theodore Wirth Park, the Brookview Park and Neighborhood Middle, and Common Mills Nature Protect are nice locations to discover. After all, there are additionally dozens of lakes to marvel at anyplace you flip.
Like most different cities within the space, strolling and biking trails are ample. The Luce Line Path is 63 miles lengthy and stretches from Cosmos, MN via Golden Valley alongside a former railroad observe. The Nice Northern Greenway and Crystal Lake Regional Path are different nice (however shorter) trails. Many paths enable horses, and you’ll even journey a snowmobile on parts of path additional exterior the metropolitan space.
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10. Crystal, MN
Inhabitants:21,906Median Sale Worth:$310,000Median Hire Worth:$1,265Average Commute Time:22.4 minutesUnemployment Charge:2.8%
Crystal, positioned simply north of Golden Valley, rounds out our record of the most effective locations to reside in Minnesota. Adjoining to New House and Robbinsdale, Crystal is thought for its quiet suburban streets, handy outlets, and pretty inexpensive properties. Loads of leisure facilities, just like the Crystal Cove Aquatic Middle and Crystal Neighborhood Middle (CCC), additionally dot the gridded streets. Town doesn’t have a important throughway, however the redeveloped Crystal Procuring Middle features as the middle of city.
Commuting into the Twin Cities will probably take some time, sadly; public transportation is restricted and just one freeway companies the world.
On the plus facet, parks are in all places in Crystal. Bassett Creek Park and Crystal Mac Wildlife Space are nice spots to hold with mates. Additional out, Eagle Lake, Clifton E. French, and Fish Lake Regional Parks are good for all of your out of doors recreation wants, with choices for fishing, boating, and way more. Elm Creek Park Protect and actually a whole bunch extra parks are inside an hour of the town, too.
Restaurant alternatives are a bit restricted within the space, and most are chains. Nonetheless, Milton’s and Large Louie’s Bar and Grill are locally-owned hotspots with good, hearty meals.
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Methodology
Redfin’s Greatest Locations to Reside rankings are supposed to assist house searchers make an knowledgeable choice when selecting the place to reside. To aim to measure the general high quality of a metro space, every rating takes under consideration a number of key elements, together with entry to healthcare, open out of doors house, navigability, housing developments, employment statistics, revenue, and journey time to work. Solely metros with a inhabitants of 20,000 or larger have been thought-about for our Minnesota record. Extra details about our methodology might be discovered right here.
Knowledge legitimate April 2025. This text is for informational and academic functions solely.
