Have you been asking yourself, “Should I move to Minneapolis, MN?” Located along the banks of the Mississippi River, Minneapolis is a dynamic city with a unique blend of natural beauty and urban charm. Known for its picturesque lakes, thriving arts scene, and diverse neighborhoods, Minneapolis always has something exciting in store. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s music and theater scene, its abundance of outdoor activities, or its friendly community, Minneapolis has plenty to offer for those looking to put down roots in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of living in this city to help you decide if it’s the right place for you. Let’s jump in.
Minneapolis at a Glance
Walk Score: 71 | Bike Score: 83 | Transit Score: 55
Median Sale Price: $330,000 | Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apartment: $1,560
Minneapolis neighborhoods | Houses for rent in Minneapolis | Apartments for rent in Minneapolis | Homes for sale in Minneapolis
Pro: Flourishing arts scene
Minneapolis is renowned for its vibrant arts scene. The city is home to the Walker Art Center, one of the most celebrated contemporary art museums in the U.S., and the adjacent Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, famous for the iconic “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture. Additionally, the Guthrie Theater offers world-class theatrical productions, and the First Avenue nightclub has played host to countless legendary performances. These venues provide residents with endless opportunities for artistic exploration and inspiration.
Con: Harsh winters
The winters in Minneapolis are notoriously brutal, with temperatures often plummeting below zero degrees Fahrenheit. The city experiences heavy snowfall, which can disrupt daily life, from commuting challenges to the simple act of walking outside. The city has efficient snow removal and a well-designed network of skyways in downtown areas that help pedestrians avoid the cold. However, the winter months can still be daunting for those not accustomed to such extreme weather conditions.
Pro: Abundance of lakes and parks
One of Minneapolis’s most charming features is its abundance of lakes and parks. The city’s park system is consistently ranked as one of the best in the country, offering residents access to over 22 lakes and more than 200 parks. From sailing on Lake Harriet to biking around Lake Calhoun (also known as Bde Maka Ska), the opportunities for recreation and relaxation are virtually limitless. This access to green space is a significant advantage of living in Minneapolis.
Con: Traffic congestion
Like many major cities, Minneapolis faces issues with traffic congestion, especially during rush hours. The city’s layout and reliance on a few major highways can lead to significant delays, particularly on I-35W and I-94, which are crucial routes for commuters. While public transportation options like the Metro Transit light rail and bus services offer alternatives, the traffic can still be a considerable inconvenience for residents.
Pro: Thriving job market
Minneapolis boasts a robust job market, particularly in the fields of healthcare, education, and technology. The city is home to several Fortune 500 companies, including Target, UnitedHealth Group, and Best Buy, providing ample employment opportunities. Additionally, the University of Minnesota, based in Minneapolis, is a significant employer and contributes to the city’s focus on research and innovation. This economic environment offers locals a wide range of career paths and other opportunities.
Con: Seasonal allergies
Due to its lush environment and diverse plant life, Minneapolis can be a challenging place to live for people with seasonal allergies. Spring and fall are particularly difficult times for allergy sufferers as the pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds reaches peak levels. While the city’s green spaces are a significant asset, they can also contribute to discomfort for a portion of the population.
Pro: Diverse culinary scene
Minneapolis’s culinary scene offers an array of dining options that reflect the city’s multicultural population. From the traditional Scandinavian dishes that pay homage to the city’s Nordic roots to the thriving East African cuisine found in neighborhoods like Cedar-Riverside, there’s something for every palate. The city also boasts a growing number of farm-to-table restaurants and craft breweries, highlighting Minnesota’s rich agricultural heritage and innovative spirit.
Con: Limited public transportation options
While Minneapolis has made strides in expanding its public transportation system, options can still be limited. The Metro Transit system, consisting of buses and light rail lines, does not fully cover the metropolitan area. This can make it difficult for those without cars to access certain parts of the city and surrounding suburbs. This limited Transit Score of 55 can affect daily commutes and restrict access to certain amenities and job opportunities for those relying on public transit.
Pro: Active lifestyle
Minneapolis encourages an active lifestyle, with its extensive network of bike lanes and trails, public parks, and recreational facilities. The city has been named one of the best biking cities in America, with over 200 miles of bike trails and dedicated lanes for cyclists. Whether it’s kayaking on the Mississippi River or cross-country skiing in Theodore Wirth Park, Minneapolis provides ample opportunities to stay active and engaged with the outdoors.
Source: rent.com