7 Factors Rank Minneapolis as one of the Best Cities in Minnesota

Minneapolis is well known as one of the Twin Cities, sharing that moniker with another of the oldest cities in the state: St. Paul. These cities originally served as home to Native Americans along the Mississippi River and later grew as centers for river trade, logging and four mills. This remarkable midwestern hub has grown over the years and now provides prime real estate for residential, business and tourism.

1. Lifestyle:

Sharing the banks of the Mississippi River with its twin city, St. Paul, affords this metropolitan center bountiful scenery, river traffic, water activities and entertainment. Residents enjoy parks and trails along St. Anthony Falls, the Lock and Dam, Stone Arch Bridge, Minnehaha Falls and many others.

Museums, art and theatre are a highlight along with major league ball games, and the neighborhoods themselves welcome residents with activities and socializing within walking distance and easy access to all the city has to offer.

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2. Economy:

Minneapolis is known worldwide for the Mall of America with its theme park, shops and dining even though the huge complex actually carries a Bloomington, Minnesota address. As the largest city in the state, the City of Lakes is widely recognized for its outdoor life, lakes, parks and venues for sports and concerts.

Because of the abundant amenities, the cost of living in Minneapolis is higher than averages—and perhaps more easily sustainable with the higher-than-average income status—but well worth it for the majority of residents who choose to call this city their home.

3. Housing:

This diverse city has appeal for all ages and lifestyles. The population of well over 400,000 continues to grow as people choose to be close to work and the varied amenities of the city. To meet this growing demand, construction is highly visible. Homes continue to appreciate at an advantageous rate (as of Oct. 2019), and home prices are generally above average.

The downtown area is attractively designed and maintained, and the neighborhoods are extremely desirable and in demand. You might want to look into these prime neighborhoods: Lynnhurst, Linden Hills, Lowry Hills, Page, Kenwood, Fulton and many more. Ask your local realtor for updates on the best of the best.

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4. Safety and Healthcare:

Not surprisingly, the neighborhoods listed above are also among some of the safest in the city. Again, your realtor can give you insights on what fits best into your areas of desirability.

You’ll find widely recognized healthcare in the city at the University of Minnesota Medical School—consistently winning honors and awards, Abbott Northwestern—a large, private hospital, Children’s Hospital—one of the country’s largest pediatric facilities, Hennepin County Medical Center—with its nationally recognized trauma center, and the VA Health System—with its full range of services and specialties.

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5. Employment:

With better-than-average commute times, stress levels for getting to work are typically no problem. Some of the city’s larger employers are Target, Hennepin Healthcare, Wells Fargo, Ameriprise, US Bank, Thrivent, Xcel Energy, the City of Minneapolis, Ramsey County, and the Federal Reserve. Not surprisingly, the main industries are education, professional services, technology, manufacturing, retail, hospitality and healthcare.

As the Minneapolis job market continues to expand at a rate higher than the U.S. average, it draws workers to the area. Once acquainted with the abundance of positives, many decide to live in the city as well. With a young and ambitious population, unemployment is well below the national average.

6. Education:

It’s obvious that education is valued in this community with a considerably higher spend per student than the U.S. average. Choices of colleges and universities are abundant as well.

There are the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, Augsburg College, North Central University, Capella University, Globe University, Dunwoody College of Technology, Minneapolis College of Art and Design, and the Minneapolis Community and Technical College, not to mention the many colleges within a quick drive of the city.

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7. Climate:

The city of Minneapolis demonstrates the beauty of Minnesota’s seasons with a flair. From the brilliant colors of fall and family festivities to the sparkling hues of winter white, the city presents opportunities for outdoor activities throughout the seasons.

Sure, the winters can be cold but that doesn’t stop the activity or the fun! Don the parka and the gloves, and you’ll see how much fun it can be. Minnesotans have snow removal down to a science, and residents know how to get around with ease.

Spring brings welcome sights of flowers, budding trees and lakes showcasing water instead of ice, and you’ll find decks and patios opening for lunch, happy hours and dining. Even though summers can be plenty hot and humid, residents enjoy festivals and outdoor activities at the lakes and parks.

With underground and ramp parking and city skyways to help navigate the city for work, shopping or socializing, getting around is a breeze—and definitely a plus in winter weather or the rainy season.

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To sum up:

Yes, Minneapolis is a hot spot in Minnesota. What’s not to love? The city has a delightful blend of old and new and an inviting environment of healthy living and social activity. There’s history, nature, friendly people, entertainment, thriving businesses and good jobs.

Education is also in full bloom in this city, and you’re sure to find a college or university offering courses for your chosen career path. With its many appealing neighborhoods, you’re sure to find one that resonates with you.

We hope you have enjoyed this article about life in the fair city of Minneapolis. If so, please share it with your friends who might enjoy it as well. Thank you!