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Are you considering moving to Minnesota?
If you enjoy water-based sports and recreations such as fishing, swimming, boating, ice fishing, canoeing, and the likes, moving to Minnesota is right for you. Minnesota is the Land of 10,000 Lakes and the state lives up to its reputation with beautiful water bodies.
Minnesota’s highly educated population, second only to Massachusetts in the entire country, makes it one of the most coveted states for people seeking top-quality education.
If you’d love to enjoy fairs and festivals throughout the year in one of the friendliest states in the entire country, moving to Minnesota is right for you.
Minnesota’s low crime rates, low housing costs, and low costs of living make it one of the top destinations for many families and individuals.
If you considering moving to Minnesota and wondering if the state is right for you or not, this guide contains all the key information you need to know about the state to make the right decision.
A quick look at the population and other demographics of Minnesota.
You’ve probably thought about moving to Minnesota several times. The state is rated as one of the best places to live in the country.
So, we’ve made a list of why thousands of people are moving to Minnesota every year. Check out the list below:
The overall cost of living in Minnesota is lower than the national average as groceries, health utilities, and transportation cost less here. However, housing costs are higher than the national average.
The 16h richest state, Minnesota’s economy is highly based on agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and technology. This contributes to a strong job market where finding a good salaried job is not a big deal.
With abundant museums, art galleries, theatres, and performance centers, Minnesota is home to one of the vibrant art scenes in the US. Performances, concerts, and plays of a gamut of genres cater to diverse interests.
Here is a list of museums and art galleries in Minnesota that are worth exploring:
Though the home prices are a bit higher than the national average, buying a house in Minnesota is affordable than in many other US states. The median home cost is $235,600 and the home prices have grown up by 6.3% over the last 10 years.
In the West North Central region of the US, Minnesota has the lowest crime rate at 2.4 compared to the regional average of 3.5. The state ranks below the national average for both violent crime and property crime. Among all 50 states, Minnesota had the twelfth-lowest violent crime rate and the twenty-fifth-lowest property crime rate.
Nicknamed as ‘Land of 10,000 Lakes’, it is no surprise that Minnesota is most famous for its water bodies. The state has 11,842 lakes in total and it is a challenge to pick which one is the best.
Here’s a list of 10 amazing lakes in Minnesota.
Minnesota ranks sixth in education and 48% of the state population, between the age group of 25 and 64, holds a degree or higher. This has contributed greatly to civic responsibility, such as higher voting rates and higher philanthropic tendencies.
The economy of Minnesota is robust and is greatly based on manufacturing, farming, technology, and mining. This contributes to a great job market and the unemployment rate is 4.5%, much lower than the national average of 6%.
Minnesota has many cozy small hamlets worth exploring. And one common attribute of all the best small towns is stunning scenic surroundings, packed with bluff-lined rivers, lakes, and rolling woodlands.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the picturesque small towns in Minnesota
It is not just education and affordability that makes Minnesota a great place to live in. The state also ranks high in clean air and nature. Minneapolis-St. Paul recently ranked as the cleanest city in the US and many Minnesota cities found a berth in the list.
Some of the cleanest cities in Minnesota include:
One of the easiest ways to figure out if moving to Minnesota is right for you or not is to consider the pros and cons of living in the state.
To give a head start, we’ve made a list of the key pros and cons of living in the state. This is key if you’re moving to Minnesota:
Minnesota is home to several livable cities and towns. If you’re moving to Minnesota, you’ll most likely be interested in living in some of the best places in the state.
To make it easier for you to narrow your house-hunting efforts, we’ve made a list of the top ten best places to live in the state since you’re moving to Minnesota:
| Rank | City | Population | Unemployment Rate | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Waconia | 12,131 | 1.5% | $303,700 |
| 2 | Chanhassen | 25,657 | 1.8% | $381,300 |
| 3 | Plymouth | 78,134 | 2.5% | $351,700 |
| 4 | Edina | 51,746 | 3.1% | $476,300 |
| 5 | Minnetonka | 53,025 | 3.0% | $347,900 |
| 6 | Medina | 6,380 | 2.4% | $606,100 |
| 7 | Mendota Heights | 11,289 | 2.4% | $392,600 |
| 8 | Lino Lakes | 21,404 | 1.9% | $293,100 |
| 9 | Victoria | 9,383 | 2.9% | $427,400 |
| 10 | Minnetrista | 7,621 | 3.6% | $477,800 |
The cost of living in Minnesota is rated 97.2. The national average is 100.
That means the cost of living in Minnesota is lower than the United States average. Since you’re considering moving to Minnesota, this is most likely one of the key things you’ll have to consider.
| Cost of Living | Minnesota | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 97.2 | 100 |
| Grocery | 97.2 | 100 |
| Health | 79.7 | 100 |
| Housing | 101.9 | 100 |
| Median Home Cost | $235,600 | $231,200 |
| Utilities | 95.7 | 100 |
| Transportation | 96.4 | 100 |
| Miscellaneous | 100.2 | 100 |
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Start My Quote NowMinnesota’s median home cost is $235,600. Buying a home could be one of your housing options if you’re moving to Minnesota. The state has a relatively high home affordability rate.
Over the last ten years, the value of homes in Minnesota has increased by 25.8%. Currently, home appreciation in the state has increased by 6.3%.
If you’re moving to Minnesota, renting a home could be your preferred housing option. About 25% of the state’s population are renters. Also, about 1.1% of homes and apartments in the state are available to rent. Since you’re considering moving to Minnesota, here’s a breakdown of the median cost of renting a home in the state:
Minnesota’s unemployment rate is 4.5. The national average is 6.0.
So far, job growth in Minnesota has been positive. Since you’re considering moving to Minnesota, here’s a breakdown of the state’s job market:
| Employment Information | Minnesota | United States |
|---|---|---|
| The income per Cap | $34,712 | $31,177 |
| Household Income | $65,699 | $57,652 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.5 | 6.0 |
| Recent Job Growth | -3.05% | -6.18% |
| Future Job Growth | 33.99% | 33.51% |
Moving to Minnesota could mean getting a new job with new pay. To give you an idea of the pay to expect if you’re moving to Minnesota, check out the average salary and income in Minnesota:
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Start My Quote NowIf you’re considering a change of career after moving to Minnesota, you may be interested in the top career options in the state. We’ve made a list of the top ten career options in Minnesota, to give you a head start. Check out the list below:
Tip: When you’ve got a home to move in Minnesota, getting the best moving quote will be your goal. Request moving company quotes to save on moving cost.
| Rank | Job Title | AVERAGE SALARY | ENTRY LEVEL SALARY | # OF PEOPLE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Obstetricians And Gynecologists | $245,610 | $152,910 | 660 |
| 2 | Dentists, All Other Specialists | $243,770 | $109,080 | 120 |
| 3 | Psychiatrists | $243,190 | $93,230 | 530 |
| 4 | General Internal Medicine Physicians | $242,390 | $71,120 | 1,390 |
| 5 | Physicians, All Other; And Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric | $236,270 | $111,750 | 9,130 |
| 6 | Family Medicine Physicians | $236,060 | $146,680 | 2,790 |
| 7 | Dentists, General | $213,210 | $119,000 | 1,800 |
| 8 | Chief Executives | $195,920 | $88,300 | 5,630 |
| 9 | Nurse Anesthetists | $192,290 | $141,370 | 1,900 |
| 10 | Podiatrists | $181,780 | $56,000 | 150 |
Minnesota is home to some of the largest industries in America. The state’s booming economy is a credit to its various vibrant industries. Since you’re considering moving to Minnesota, we’ve made a list of the top industries in the state to help you get started:
How much will you be paying in taxes if you’re moving to Minnesota?
The easiest way to find out is to take a look at these key tax metrics below:
If you’re moving to Minnesota, you’ll get the chance to explore the most beautiful attractions in the state.
You’ll also take part in various exciting and remarkable activities while spending time with some of the friendliest people in America. Since you’re considering moving to Minnesota, here are the best things to do in the state:
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Minnesota’s oldest state park, the 32,000-acre Itasca State Park is a National Natural Landmark where the mighty Mississippi River begins its 2,552-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. The park is home to Preacher's Grove, Peace Pipe Vista, bison kill site, and over 100 lakes. There are more than 200 campsites to camp and explore the park.
The largest shopping and entertainment complex in the US, Mall of America boasts more than 520 stores, 60 restaurants, an amusement park, an aquarium, and dozens of nightlife options. About 40 million people visit the mall annually.
One of the best lodging options in Minnesota, Great Wolf Lodge Minneapolis/Bloomington has 404 guest suites and numerous attractions & amenities. There is also a 75,000-square foot indoor water park and a multi-level interactive water fort treehouse.
A 193-acre city park in Minneapolis, Minnehaha Regional Park overlooks the Mississippi River and features a 53-foot waterfall and limestone bluffs. The park contains oak, elm, silver maple, basswood, hackberry, and cottonwood trees, as well as native and prairie woodland wildflowers.
Rochester is the third-largest city in Minnesota and one of the state’s major economic centers. The city has many cultural attractions and it is also home to Mayo Clinic, an academic medical center focusing on integrated health care, education, and research.
Voyageur’s National Park is an unspoiled canoeist’s paradise with giant pristine lakes, islands, and boreal forests. Bald eagles, moose, and native foxes roam in the park freely. The park is also an ideal sport to snowmobile and ski in winters.
The 4,400 km2 wilderness area within the Superior National Forest is one of the most visited wilderness in the US for its hiking, canoeing, and fishing options. The state’s first dark sky sanctuary is also the best place to hunt deer in Minnesota.
The largest shopping and entertainment mall in North America, Mall of America, Bloomington has about 520 world-class retail stores and restaurants to explore. The mall is also home to the largest theme park in the country. There is also an aquarium and many other entertainment options at the mall, which complements the shopping experience.
Two distinct but adjacent parks on the banks of the Mississippi River across from St. Cloud State University, Munsinger and Clemens Gardens are amazing strolling destinations. Munsinger Gardens are famous for tall Pine trees dating to 1915 while Clemens Gardens have six gardens in a formal European style with American plantings and fountains.
The 62,000-square-foot Great Lakes Aquarium in Duluth exhibits animals and aquatic life in natural habitats. There are 205 different species of fish, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals and Great lakes are one of the few aquariums in the US focusing predominantly on freshwater exhibits.
North Shore Scenic Drive is an amazing way to explore the scenic beauty of Minnesota including eight state parks, by driving through a 154-mile "All-American Road" from Canal Park in Duluth, along the shore, through the burgs and woodlands, to the international border at Grand Portage. On the way, you’ll come across birch and pine forests, lighthouses, rocky cliffs, and the world's largest lake.
Famous for its scenic setting and serene atmosphere, Brainerd Lakes Area in central Minnesota makes people fall for clear blue lakes and the lush green forests. It boasts of 100-mile Paul Bunyan Trail along with multiple options to fish, swim, boat, canoe, scuba dive, kitesurf, and tube. There are multiple options to golf and shop in the Brainerd Lakes Area.
The seat of the government of Minnesota, the Minnesota State Capitol houses the Minnesota Senate, the Minnesota House of Representatives, the office of the Attorney General, and the office of the Governor. The 3,000-square feet building is set near the crest of a hill from where you’ll get panoramic views of Saint Paul city.
Minnesota is one of the states with the lowest violent crime rates in the United States. This makes the state suitable for many families and people with various lifestyles. Here are key stats of the state’s crime rates:
| Rank | City | Population | Violent Crimes Per 100k | Property Crimes Per 100k |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kasson, MN | 6,444 | 15 | 124 |
| 2 | Orono, MN | 20,225 | 29 | 583 |
| 3 | South Lake Minnetonka, MN | 12,731 | 23 | 691 |
| 4 | La Crescent, MN | 5,012 | 39 | 438 |
| 5 | Cold Spring/Richmond, MN | 5,572 | 35 | 664 |
| 6 | Minnetrista, MN | 10,357 | 38 | 811 |
| 7 | Farmington, MN | 23,355 | 55 | 745 |
| 8 | Dayton, MN | 5,970 | 33 | 938 |
| 9 | Jordan, MN | 6,375 | 62 | 705 |
| 10 | Lino Lakes, MN | 21,577 | 55 | 838 |
If you’re moving to Minnesota, you’ll be living in one of the most educated states in the country. Minnesota is home to lots of top qualities universities and colleges.
Hilltop Primary School
Westonka Public School District, Public, K-4 | 424 students, Rating: 10/10
Richmond Elementary
Rocori Public School District, Public, K-5 | 132 students, Rating: 10/10
Dassel Elementary
Dassel-Cokato Public School District, Public, PK-4 | 369 students, Rating: 10/10
Oak Point Elementary
Eden Prairie Public School District, Public, K-6 | 740 students, Rating: 10/10
Houston Elementary
Houston Public School District, Public, PK-6 | 245 students, Rating: 10/10
Secondary Lighthouse
Spring Lake Park Public Schools, Public, 7-12 | 46 students, Rating: 10/10
Minnetonka West Middle
Minnetonka Public School District, Public, 6-8 | 1262 students, Rating: 10/10
Grandview Middle School
Westonka Public School District, Public, 5-7 | 581 students, Rating: 10/10
New Prague Middle School
New Prague Area Schools, Public, 6-8 | 956 students, Rating: 10/10
Lincoln K-8 Choice Elementary
Rochester Public School District, Public, K-8 | 465 students, Rating: 10/10
St. Croix Preparatory Academy Upper
St. Croix Preparatory Academy, Charter, 9-12 | 357 students, Rating: 10/10
Secondary Lighthouse
Spring Lake Park Public Schools, Public, 7-12 | 46 students, Rating: 10/10
Upper Mississippi High Academy
Upper Mississippi Academy, Charter, 9-12 | 97 students, Rating: 10/10
New Ulm High School
New Ulm Public School District, Public, 9-12 | 641 students, Rating: 10/10
Eastview Senior High
Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan, Public, 9-12 | 2224 students, Rating: 10/10
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities - Minneapolis, MN
Carleton College - Northfield, MN
Minnesota State University - Mankato - Mankato, MN
Winona State University - Winona, MN
University of Minnesota - Morris - Morris, MN
Augsburg College - Minneapolis, MN
University of Minnesota Duluth - Duluth, MN
Macalester College - St. Paul, MN
St. Olaf College - Northfield, MN
Saint Johns University - Collegeville, MN
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