If you are considering moving to Minnesota and want the down low from someone who was raised there and visits frequently, this page tackles the question of is Minnesota a good place to live?
I’ll share first hand experiences and facts about activities, cost of living, and quality of life. Let’s get down to it!
What is it Like Living in Minnesota?
Dubbed, “America’s least stressed state” in a 2024 study, Minnesota offers everything from big city living to amazing natural landscapes. The best part is that you can experience both within just thirty minutes.
There is no shortage of employment opportunities in the greater Metro area housing many global headquarters such as Target, Best Buy, and United Health Care. Minnesota is one of the best places to raise a family due to it’s world-class healthcare. If you are into getting out and being in the action, there are seven major sports leagues with teams in Minnesota. As I’ve grown into a middle-aged adult, I’ve come to appreciate the access to James Beard award winning chefs and the vibrant growing scene in the Minneapolis North Loop, an area full of restaurants, bars, and luxury living in the form of converted warehouses.
If you need further proof of the quality of life and opportunity afforded to Minnesotans, here’s some facts where Minnesota ranks versus the other 49 states from ExploreMinnesota.com:
- #1 for health care
- #2 for economic opportunity
- #2 in park systems
- #3 in places to raise a family
- #3 for home ownership
- #3 most active state
- #4 in happiest states
- #4 in quality of life
- #4 in vibrant art community rankings
With all of these accolades, it’s no wonder many Minnesotans choose to raise their family there after college. (I went the other way, moving to Florida in 2001.)
What is the Cost of Living in Minnesota?
When compared to other states, it’s very affordable to live in Minnesota. In fact, its 18% cheaper to live in Minnesota compared to the nearby big city of Chicago. It’s 47% cheaper than living in San Francisco, which is often among the nations most expensive places to live.
Money goes a long way in real estate in Minnesota as any home not backing up to a lake has a basement. The extra square footage can be used for storage, living quarters, or even a man cave.
The average home value in bustling Minneapolis is $303,000. Compared to Boston, at $707,000, that’s a huge difference. Compared to the average home in Austin, Texas, ($528,000) that’s another big difference.
A two bedroom apartment in Minneapolis averages under $1,400 per month. Compare that to where we live in Fort Lauderdale, which is just under $2,800, that’s a HUGE difference.
Of course, like any other state, when you go outside of the big city and surrounding suburbs, the cost of living goes down considerably.
Things to do in Minnesota
There is no shortage of activities in Minnesota. With four very different seasons, youth sports features both Summer games like soccer, baseball, and volleyball, while Winter offers hockey, downhill skiing, and ice skating.
Hunting and fishing are the norm in Minnesota, with deer and duck hunting season being very popular in the fall. Fishing happens year round, with ice fishing being the more acquired taste and a great reason to get outside, bundle up, and have some alcoholic beverages to keep warm! Another winter activity is snowmobiling.
The numerous state parks offer a lot of great sight seeing. With over 10,000 lakes, Minnesota is a boater’s paradise. In addition to taking the boat or pontoon out, canoeing and kayaking are other great pass times that will keep you in great shape. (Now you can see why Minnesota is ranked highly for active residents!)
Many families have lake cabins that have been passed down for generations. This is where families gather to escape life, enjoy activities, disconnect, and vacation. Lake life is a real thing in Minnesota, and it’s something you have to experience first hand to truly appreciate. Gull Lake is my favorite lake in all of Minnesota due to it’s numerous bars, restaurants, resorts, and lively waters. Camping and hiking are also great activities where you can enjoy nature and see wildlife including deer, moose, and even bears!
My Experience Growing Up in Minnesota
I grew up in the South Suburbs and was minutes from both St. Paul and Minneapolis. I found the community to be very close, and you’ll definitely get that Minnesota Nice experience with your neighbors that we just don’t have in South Florida. People are very transparent, although sometimes passive-aggressive, but always willing to lend a hand or a power tool in case you need it.
I remember Summer nights when the sun sets well after 8 PM, the smell of my father’s fresh cut grass, steaks on the grill looking at the amazing sky, and doing our best to avoid those pesky mosquitos.
Winter, on the other hand, is what led me to leave Minnesota. I just couldn’t stomach it anymore. My father waking me up at 4:30 AM to shovel snow off the driveway, the days, sometimes weeks on end when the temperature hovers around zero degrees, and the cold, bone chilling air that makes you want to fast forward to Summer are things I definitely don’t miss.
I did love the community vibe, the diversity, the very different scenery, and getting invites to cabins and taking the boat out to go waterskiing. It’s a great place to raise a family, make life long friendships, and get a great public school education. We visit frequently and always look forward to the experience.
Final Words
If you can stomach the long winters, Minnesota is a top rated place to live. There’s always something to do, a team to follow, and people are friendly. If you ever have questions about what it’s like living in Minnesota, simply reach out. Happy to spread whatever knowledge I can!
About Tim Schmidt
Tim Schmidt is a 20+ year Entrepreneur and Digital Marketer. A Fort Lauderdale-based "Digital Nomad," he enjoys traveling as much as possible with family and friends. AllWorld is his escape to document all of his adventures, including being a hardcore "foodie." He has property in Costa Rica and visits several times each year and is happy to offer his expert advice for planning your trip. Make sure to download the AllWorld Travel Hacks FREE ebook.
