With so many great places in which to relax and explore, a diverse community, a packed calendar of local events: from the May Day Parade to the Twin Cities Hot Summer Jazz Festival, great schools, and a thriving job market, it is no wonder that Minneapolis is a top destination for families, professionals, and those who love art and culture.
In this week’s home moving blog, we look at why Minneapolis is consistently one of the most popular places for people to relocate to and all you need to know about moving here.
You may also like to read: Moving to a New State. Packed with checklists and tips, this is an invaluable guide for anyone planning on moving to a new state.
Why Move to Minneapolis?
Lake Bde Maka Ska, Minneapolis
Minneapolis, part of the Twin Cities (along with neighboring St. Paul), offers the best of both worlds: urban sophistication and natural beauty.
The city consistently ranks among the most livable cities in the U.S. thanks to its well-planned public spaces, family-friendliness, and strong economy.
With over 13 lakes within the city limits and miles of biking trails, Minneapolis is perfect for outdoor lovers, too.
For professionals, the growing job market and tech scene make it a good choice to build a career.
Families love the excellent schools and safe neighborhoods, while students benefit from world-class universities.
If you’re moving to Minneapolis, choosing the right neighborhood in which to live is very important. Based on safety, schools, walkability, and community feel, these are the most popular neighborhoods.
1. Linden Hills
Vibe: Upscale, family-friendly, walkable
Highlights: Close to Lake Harriet, charming boutiques, excellent schools
Why live here? One of the safest neighborhoods in Minneapolis, perfect for families looking for suburban calm but with easy city access.
You may also like to read: How to Choose a New School. In this guide, we suggest things to take into consideration when choosing a new school after moving home.
Cost of Living in Minneapolis
What price do you put on such beautiful surroundings?
Compared to other major U.S. cities, Minneapolis is quite affordable, especially considering the high quality of life.
Expense Category
Average Cost (Estimate)
Median Home Price
$385,000
Median Rent
$1,550 per month (2 bed apartment)
Utilities
$160 per month
Groceries
5–10% below national average
Transportation
$75 per month (public transit)
Minneapolis is more affordable than cities like Chicago, Seattle, or San Francisco. However, home prices are steadily increasing due to demand, so now is a great time to buy or rent before prices climb further.
Compare the cost of living in your current hometown with Minneapolis at www.numbeo.com
You may also like to read: How to Save Money Moving Home. In this guide, we share tips that will make your home move cheaper whilst still ensuring a safe relocation.
Job Opportunities in Minneapolis
One of the main reasons people relocate to Minneapolis is for its strong job market. It has a diversified economy with booming industries and low unemployment rates (currently hovering around 3%).
Top Industries in Minneapolis:
Healthcare and Medical Technology – Home to companies like UnitedHealth Group and Medtronic
Finance and Insurance – U.S. Bank, Ameriprise Financial
Retail and Food – Target Corporation (headquartered downtown), General Mills, Cargill
Tech and Startups – A growing tech scene with accelerators and VC support
Education and Public Sector – University of Minnesota and State of Minnesota jobs
Fast-Growing Jobs in Minneapolis:
Software Developers & Data Analysts
Registered Nurses and Medical Technicians
Financial Analysts and Accountants
Construction Managers
Digital Marketing Specialists
Remote work is also thriving, and the city’s affordability and high-speed internet infrastructure make it a very desirable choice for remote workers.
You may also like to read: Relocating for Work. In this guide, we look at the pros and cons of moving for a new job.
Recreation and Lifestyle in Minneapolis
Weisman Art Museum, Minneapolis
When it comes to recreation and lifestyle, Minneapolis ranks very highly.
It’s consistently ranked as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the U.S., and it’s nearly impossible to talk about life in Minneapolis without mentioning the Chain of Lakes, a network of lakes connected by walking and biking trails.
Outdoor Activities:
Biking & Walking Trails – Over 100 miles of trails, including the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway
Lakes – Kayaking, paddleboarding, or just relaxing at Lake Harriet, Lake Nokomis, or Bde Maka Ska
Winter Sports – Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating are staples during the snowy months
Parks – Minneapolis has more than 180 parks, including the iconic Minnehaha Falls
Arts & Culture:
Walker Art Center and Minneapolis Institute of Art
Guthrie Theater – Nationally renowned for performances and architecture
Live Music – First Avenue (Prince’s famous venue), the Fillmore, and more
Food Scene:
Minneapolis has a fast-growing food culture with everything from Nordic fare to global street food. Don’t miss Juicy Lucy burgers, Hmong markets, and the annual Minnesota State Fair.
Climate
Minneapolis has a continental climate, meaning cold winters and warm, pleasant summers.
Visit in All Seasons: If possible, experience both a summer and a winter before deciding where to live.
Consider renting first: Get to know the various neighborhoods by renting first.
Work with a Local Realtor: Especially if you’re buying a home in competitive areas like Linden Hills or Nokomis.
Utilize Public Transportation: The Metro Transit light rail and bus systems are clean, reliable, and expanding.
Plan for Winter: Invest in quality winter gear, many locals love winter outdoor activities.
Browse homes to buy or rent in Minneapolis at www.realtor.com
You may also like to read: Moving to a Cold State. If Minneapolis is colder in the winter than your current home state, then you will find the tips in this guide invaluable.
Should I Move to Minneapolis?
Minnehaha Falls, Minneapolis
Moving to Minneapolis, MN, makes sense for those seeking a high quality of life, a strong job market, and a vibrant community.
With such a great choice of neighborhoods, there’s a place for everyone in the Twin Cities.
With its balance of affordability, culture, and nature, Minneapolis is one of the best cities to live in the Midwest, and some would argue, in the U.S.
So if you’re planning a move, now’s the perfect time to explore what this dynamic city has to offer.
Good luck with your move, and be sure to check out our home moving blog, which is packed with guides to make every aspect of your home move easier, cheaper, and safer.
Minneapolis has been very good to me. I am very happy I have had the opportunity to experience life there. I have enjoyed it better than any other place I have lived in the USA so far. I have lived in Portland, OR, the Fresno, CA area, Western Arkansas, and Austin, TX area. I have also lived in Taos, NM and Phoenix, AZ. I think just about anyone with a will to work honestly would be welcome in MPLS, even if you have not been respected for a sincere willingness to work in other areas of the country.
Thinking about moving to Minnesota from Rochester NY. I was taken out of work and placed on disability I have my own house (four bedrooms ), but not sure about life in Minn on disability could I afford having a home there not an Apt. I heard the people are very nice and I love the Vikings and single no kids.
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Minneapolis has been very good to me. I am very happy I have had the opportunity to experience life there. I have enjoyed it better than any other place I have lived in the USA so far. I have lived in Portland, OR, the Fresno, CA area, Western Arkansas, and Austin, TX area. I have also lived in Taos, NM and Phoenix, AZ. I think just about anyone with a will to work honestly would be welcome in MPLS, even if you have not been respected for a sincere willingness to work in other areas of the country.
Thinking about moving to Minnesota from Rochester NY. I was taken out of work and placed on disability I have my own house (four bedrooms ), but not sure about life in Minn on disability could I afford having a home there not an Apt. I heard the people are very nice and I love the Vikings and single no kids.