In the event you’re planning on transferring to Minnesota, add these cities to your checklist.
Usually referred to as the Land of 10,000 lakes (there are literally 14,380 lakes complete), Minnesota is an unlimited, lush state filled with prairies, forests, hills, and loads of water. The truth is, 6% of Minnesota is roofed by water, greater than every other state.
Located between Wisconsin and the Dakotas, Minnesota’s glacier-carved panorama offers 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 also be nice for agriculture – the state is among the many prime crop and livestock producers within the nation.
Resulting from 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 one of the best? On this Redfin article, we’ve uncovered one of the best locations to dwell in Minnesota, rating them on qualities similar to affordability, navigability, and variety of facilities. You will discover extra details about our methodology right here or on the backside of the article.
The most effective locations to dwell 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 Lease Worth:$1,500Average Commute Time:22.5 minutesUnemployment Fee:3.9%
Minneapolis tops our checklist as one of the best place to dwell in Minnesota. Comparatively reasonably priced housing prices, easy accessibility to pure recreation, and ample facilities helped the town earn prime marks. Folks have taken benefit of this, too, with its inhabitants having fun with regular progress.
Located alongside the Mississippi River, Minneapolis is commonly referred to as the “Twin Cities” with neighboring Saint Paul. The world was traditionally dwelling to the Dakota and Ojibwe peoples, and in the present day is understood for its pure magnificence, industrial historical past, and culinary delights. 55 museums, dozens of enormous parks, and a number of schools dot the panorama.
Minneapolis’ navigability could also be its very best quality. It’s essentially the most bikeable metropolis within the nation, and has a strong public transportation community. A lot of the town’s navigability will be attributed to its flat terrain and interconnected parks and trails. There are additionally 16 miles of protected bikeways and greenways, essentially the most well-known of which is alongside the Nice River Street and over the historic Stone Arch Bridge. The enduring Skyway system even permits for walkability in the course of the chilly winter months.
Parks and pure magnificence are one other big boon – the town was designed with them in thoughts. Immediately, 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.
Minneapolis houses on the market | Minneapolis homes for hire | Minneapolis residences for hire
2. Saint Paul, MN
Inhabitants:303,820Median Sale Worth:$295,000Median Lease Worth:$1,500Average Commute Time:22.3 minutesUnemployment Fee:3.5%
The capital of Minnesota, Saint Paul takes the second spot on our checklist. The slower-paced twin metropolis is positioned simply east of Minneapolis and has a colonial historical past relationship again to 1858 – additional should you 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 reasonably priced price of dwelling than Minneapolis: Home costs are $85,000 decrease, whereas hire 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 filled with pedestrian paths, parks, and riverfront views. The truth is, St. Paul has an excellent 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 through the Inexperienced Line, or by bike alongside considered one of dozens of trails. Driving could take a bit throughout rush hour, although.
Saint Paul houses on the market | Saint Paul homes for hire | Saint Paul residences for hire
3. Duluth, MN
Inhabitants:87,680Median Sale Worth:$310,000Median Lease Worth:$1,145Average Commute Time:17.1 minutesUnemployment Fee:3.3%
Among the many coldest and snowiest cities within the nation, Duluth is available in because the third-best place to dwell in Minnesota. Identified for its trade and pure magnificence, there’s quite a bit to like concerning the metropolis. A really reasonably priced price of dwelling, thriving economic system, and plethora of facilities helped give Duluth excessive marks.
Duluth’s identification has lengthy been intertwined with the area’s ample pure sources. Logging, farming, and mining have all formed the realm’s panorama and economic system, and Duluth’s delivery port on Lake Superior gave it entry to each the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This abundance helped the town turn out to be among the many richest on this planet on the flip of the twentieth century. G
Big lake-bound cargo ships generally known as Lakers are nonetheless an everyday sight within the metropolis. Be certain to catch them passing beneath the Aerial Raise Bridge. Another highlights of the town embrace visiting the Duluth Farmers Market and the town’s historic downtown, grabbing a chunk 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 specifically is commonly referred to as a local weather haven resulting from clear air and cooling winds from Lake Superior, decreasing the danger of wildfires and excessive warmth. Minnesota can also be usually water-secure and has little risk of earthquakes. Nonetheless, whereas these components may also help shield in opposition to components like drought and infrastructure injury, nowhere is immune from local weather dangers.
Duluth houses on the market | Duluth homes for hire | Duluth residences for hire
4. Richfield, MN
Inhabitants:36,445Median Sale Worth:$371,000Median Lease Worth:$1,295Average Commute Time:23.2 minutesUnemployment Fee:3.6%
A suburb of Minneapolis simply south of the town. Richfield has robust agricultural roots and grew rapidly as Minneapolis expanded post-WWII. As such, many houses within the space have been constructed within the Nineteen Fifties. Immediately, Richfield is a quiet haven within the heart of a metropolis recognized for its nice location, small-town attraction, and native facilities. The town’s price of dwelling is corresponding to Minneapolis however dearer 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 filled with eating places and procuring, whereas the Richfield Ice Area is nice for hockey follow. Tous Les Jours and Andale Taqueria are two nice eating places within the space. And should you’re on the job hunt, Finest Purchase’s international headquarters are within the heart of city.
Importantly, aircraft noises are fairly fixed in the course of the day all through the town. Insulating your own home and including soundproofing could 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.
Richfield houses on the market | Richfield homes for hire | Richfield residences for hire
5. Moorhead, MN
Inhabitants:45,202Median Sale Worth:$247,000Median Lease Worth:$1,090Average Commute Time:17.2 minutesUnemployment Fee:2.7%
Positioned on the border of North Dakota in northwest Minnesota, Moorhead is available in at quantity 5 on our checklist. A city rooted in agriculture, Moorhead is understood for its small-town really feel, suburban houses, and quiet residential streets. Moorhead will be nice for these in search of an reasonably priced place to dwell 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 liable to wildfires and flooding. It’s exhausting to beat the large open prairie views and luxurious riverbanks, although.
As a result of area’s flat terrain, climate situations can change quickly. Thunderstorms are frequent in the summertime, whereas snow storms can happen within the winter. Freezing air from Canada can even make winters exceptionally chilly. In the event you’re planning on transferring to the realm, be ready for all 4 seasons, and get your snow tires prepared.
Moorhead houses on the market | Moorhead homes for hire | Moorhead residences for hire
6. Roseville, MN
Inhabitants:35,451Median Sale Worth:$378,000Median Lease Worth:$1,310Average Commute Time:20.5 minutesUnemployment Fee:2.6%
Simply north of Minneapolis, Roseville is a historic metropolis filled with greenery and neighborhood spirit. Much like most Twin Cities suburbs, Roseville grew rapidly following WWII and in the present day is understood for its navigability and enormous parks. Residing in Roseville means you’re near the whole lot, however far sufficient away to take pleasure in your quiet neighborhood. Rosedale Middle is the guts of the city and has the whole lot you want.
Nonetheless, choices for nightlife, visiting locally-owned retailers, or hanging with a buddy 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 operating trails, it’s enjoyable to get round with no automobile in Roseville. Even so, public transportation into the Twin Cities is proscribed, and most residents personal automobiles. 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 calm down, too.
Roseville houses on the market | Roseville homes for hire | Roseville residences for hire
7. Saint Cloud, MN
Inhabitants:71,013Median Sale Worth:$285,000Median Lease Worth:$880Average Commute Time:20.3 minutesUnemployment Fee:5.2%
The hub of central Minnesota, Saint Cloud is a small faculty city recognized 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. The town sits on the Mississippi and is surrounded by flat open plains, groves of bushes, and wooded streams. Superb affordability and a rising economic system are different main pluses.
For a small faculty metropolis, there’s loads to do on the town. The numerous 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 retailers, 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. In the event you want extra choices, you’re simply over an hour from the Twin Cities.
Parks and inexperienced areas are all over the place, too. Probably the most well-known ones are Munsinger Gardens and Heritage Park, that are nice for picnics and leisurely strolls. Nonetheless, winters will be fairly chilly, making it tough to expertise the outside for a couple of months a 12 months. Fortunately, the town takes benefit of those colder months by turning some public spades into ice skating rinks. Lake George is essentially the most well-known, however ten different parks do the identical.
Saint Cloud houses on the market | Saint Cloud homes for hire | Saint Cloud residences for hire
8. Saint Louis Park, MN
Inhabitants:49,697Median Sale Worth:$395,000Median Lease Worth:$1,605Average Commute Time:20.5 minutesUnemployment Fee:1.8%
Simply west of Minneapolis, Saint Louis Park is the eighth metropolis on our checklist of one of the best locations to dwell in Minnesota. St. Louis Park is filled with character, public artwork, and quiet residential streets. It additionally manages to be extra reasonably priced 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. Extensive trails and enormous 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 most important parks, whereas Bass Lake has a brief path meandering by means of prairies and savannah. And longer trails just like the Cedar Lake Regional Path help you bike to close by Hopkins or Downtown Minneapolis with out an excessive amount of bother. 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 the whole lot 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.
St. Louis Park houses on the market | St. Louis Park homes for hire | St. Louis Park residences for hire
9. Golden Valley, MN
Inhabitants:21,211Median Sale Worth:$447,000Median Lease Worth:$1,430Average Commute Time:20.7 minutesUnemployment Fee:1.5%
An upscale Twin Cities suburb, Golden Valley is ninth on our checklist. Big parks, open streets, and nice, inexperienced forests adorn the town’s format. Exceptional comfort is a promoting level as nicely, with easy accessibility to downtown Minneapolis and the whole lot else you want. Nonetheless, the price of dwelling is greater than most surrounding cities, which is why it’s decrease on the checklist.
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 Group Middle, and Basic Mills Nature Protect are nice locations to discover. After all, there are additionally dozens of lakes to marvel at wherever 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 by means of Golden Valley alongside a former railroad monitor. The Nice Northern Greenway and Crystal Lake Regional Path are different nice (however shorter) trails. Many paths enable horses, and you’ll even trip a snowmobile on parts of path additional exterior the metropolitan space.
Golden Valley houses on the market | Golden Valley homes for hire | Golden Valley residences for hire
10. Crystal, MN
Inhabitants:21,906Median Sale Worth:$310,000Median Lease Worth:$1,265Average Commute Time:22.4 minutesUnemployment Fee:2.8%
Crystal, positioned simply north of Golden Valley, rounds out our checklist of one of the best locations to dwell in Minnesota. Adjoining to New House and Robbinsdale, Crystal is understood for its quiet suburban streets, handy retailers, and pretty reasonably priced houses. Loads of leisure facilities, just like the Crystal Cove Aquatic Middle and Crystal Group Middle (CCC), additionally dot the gridded streets. The town doesn’t have a important throughway, however the redeveloped Crystal Procuring Middle capabilities as the middle of city.
Commuting into the Twin Cities will probably take some time, sadly; public transportation is proscribed and just one freeway companies the realm.
On the plus aspect, parks are all over the place 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 far more. Elm Creek Park Protect and actually lots of extra parks are inside an hour of the town, too.
Restaurant picks are a bit restricted within the space, and most are chains. Nonetheless, Milton’s and Massive Louie’s Bar and Grill are locally-owned hotspots with good, hearty meals.
Crystal houses on the market | Crystal homes for hire | Crystal residences for hire
Methodology
Redfin’s Finest Locations to Stay rankings are supposed to assist dwelling searchers make an knowledgeable determination when selecting the place to dwell. To aim to measure the general high quality of a metro space, every rating takes under consideration a number of key components, together with entry to healthcare, open out of doors house, navigability, housing tendencies, employment statistics, revenue, and journey time to work. Solely metros with a inhabitants of 20,000 or higher have been thought of for our Minnesota checklist. Extra details about our methodology will be discovered right here.
Knowledge legitimate April 2025. This text is for informational and academic functions solely.
