Looking for the cheapest places to live in Minnesota? We’ve got you covered! From growing cities to charming towns, Minnesota has a range of affordable living options.
Let’s explore five of the most budget-friendly cities in the Land of 10,000 Lakes, listed from the cheapest to the priciest. We’ll also shout out a few of the top employers and most affordable attractions in each area to give you a better idea of what life is like in some of Minnesota’s most affordable towns.
1. St. Cloud
Average rent: $848
St. Cloud stands out as one of the most affordable cities in Minnesota, with an average rent of just $848. Studio apartments in St. Cloud average $755, one-bedrooms go for $837, and two-bedrooms cost around $952. Living here is easy on the wallet, thanks to its lower rental prices compared to the state median.
St. Cloud is home to several major employers, including St. Cloud State University and CentraCare Health. For some fun in the sun, check out Munsinger Clemens Gardens or take a stroll along the Mississippi River. The city also puts on free community events and concerts throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something to do without breaking the bank.
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2. Brooklyn Park
Average rent: $1,164
Brooklyn Park has an average rent of $1,164, making it another affordable choice. Studio apartments cost about $994, one-bedrooms are $1,084, and two-bedrooms average $1,415.
Top employers in Brooklyn Park include Target’s Northern Campus and Hennepin Technical College. The city maintains a handful of parks and trails, including the scenic Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park. The Zanewood Recreation Center has free or low-cost activities for all ages, making it easy to enjoy the community.
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3. St. Paul
Average rent: $1,327
With an average rent of $1,327, St. Paul is both affordable and exciting. Studio apartments in St. Paul average $1,111, one-bedrooms are $1,307, and two-bedrooms go for $1,562. St. Paul is budget-friendly, especially for renters seeking a big city experience without the high costs.
A couple of St. Paul’s larger employers are 3M and Ecolab. St. Paul also has plenty of free attractions, like Como Park Zoo and Conservatory and tours of the Minnesota State Capitol. The city’s parks and lakes provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities at no cost, weather permitting, of course.
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4. Duluth
Average rent: $1,347
Duluth’s average rent is $1,347, with studios at $740, one-bedrooms at $1,525, and two-bedrooms at $1,775. This city is a great choice for those seeking affordable living in a beautiful, natural setting.
The University of Minnesota Duluth is one of the more significant employers in Duluth. The school provides a ton of jobs and solidifies Duluth’s status as one of Minnesota’s top college towns. For entertainment, visit Canal Park or take a scenic drive along the North Shore. The Lakewalk offers stunning views of Lake Superior and is a favorite spot for locals.
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5. Coon Rapids
Average rent: $1,362
The average rent in Coon Rapids is $1,362. Studio apartments are $1,300, one-bedrooms are $1,395, and two-bedrooms average $1,392.
Coon Rapids is home to significant employers like Mercy Hospital and Anoka-Ramsey Community College. On a lazy day, the city’s parks, including Bunker Hills Regional Park, which offers free entry, are always a great option. Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park is another popular spot for outdoor activities like hiking and soaking up the sun.
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Methodology
All cities must have over 50,000 residents per the US Census and have an average rent price under the median rent price for the state – which is $1,422 per month according to Redfin data. Average rental data from Rent.com July 2024.
Source: rent.com