7 Most Affordable Places to Live in Minnesota
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Situated in the Upper Midwest, Minnesota is a land of 10,000 lakes and towering coniferous forests. It is also home to various wildlife, including bald eagles, white-tailed deer, and moose. Minnesota is known for its cold winters and humid summers, but the state experiences a wide range of weather conditions. The state has a low cost of living, beautiful scenery, and great schools. In addition, Minnesota is home to many large corporations, making it a great place to find a job. With its friendly people, safe communities, and abundance of opportunities, the state has a lot to offer its residents.
Minnesota is a great place to live, with plenty of affordable housing options. Depending on your budget and lifestyle, there are numerous places in the state that offer cost-effective living. Here are some of the most affordable places to live in Minnesota.
1. Mankato
Mankato, Minnesota, is a great place to live. The town is home to a variety of businesses and attractions, and its location provides easy access to a number of different cities. Mankato is also home to a number of different colleges and universities, making it a great place for students to live. The town has several different parks and recreation areas, making it an excellent place for families to live. In addition, the town is home to a number of different cultural events and festivals, making it a great place for everyone to live. If you’re looking for a great place to live, Mankato, Minnesota, is the perfect place.
- Median House Price: $269,423
- Median Rent: $800
- Population: 44,488
- Cost of Living in Mankato: $37,055
Famous Stops!
- Minneopa State Park: Hike to the top of the Minnesota River Bluffs for a breathtaking view of the river valley, or explore the cascading waters of Minneopa Falls. In the winter, go cross-country skiing or snowshoeing on over 15 miles of trails.
- Sibley Park Zoo: View exotic animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, and grizzly bears. Don’t miss the daily penguin feeding or the chance to pet a stingray!
- Red Jacket Trail: This 6.5-mile trail winds through prairies, wetlands, and woodlands, offering views of native plants and wildlife. In the spring, keep an eye out for migrating warblers and Monarchs.
Top Employers of Mankato:
- E I Microcircuits
- Bethany Lutheran College
- Target
- Hy-Vee
2. Woodbury
Woodbury, Minnesota, is a great place to live for many reasons. The city has a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and plenty of things to do. One of the best things about Woodbury is the abundance of parks and green space. There are over 50 parks in the city, and they offer a variety of amenities such as playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic areas. In addition to outdoor recreation, Woodbury has a thriving downtown area with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Two major highways serve the city, making it easy to get around. Whether you’re looking for a place to raise a family or just want to enjoy all that Minnesota offers, Woodbury is a great choice.
- Median House Price: $452,484
- Median Rent: $1,171
- Population: 77,619
- Cost of Living in Woodbury: $40,852
Famous Stops!
- Edgewater Park: Located on the St. Croix River, Edgewater Park offers scenic views, Picnic Shelters, a playground, and a dog park. There are also 1.5 miles of walking trails that wind through the woods and along the river. The park is a popular spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.
- Eagle Brook Church: This megachurch offers numerous programs and activities for community members, including worship services, Sunday school classes, youth groups, and community service projects. The church also has an extensive resource center with a library, coffee shop, and conference rooms.
- Tamarack Nature Preserve: This nature preserve features more than 1,200 acres of woods, wetlands, and meadows. The preserve is home to various wildlife, including deer, eagles, and beavers. There are also 4 miles of hiking trails to explore.
Top Employers of Woodbury:
- Globe University
- Birchwood Companies
- Super America
- Summit Orthopedics
3. Hastings
The town is situated on the Mississippi River and offers residents a variety of amenities and activities. There are plenty of parks and trails for residents to enjoy, and the town also has a vibrant downtown area with shops and restaurants. In addition, Hastings is home to several schools and businesses, making it a convenient place to live. And for those who enjoy the outdoors, Hastings is situated near a number of lakes and state parks. As a result, Hastings offers something for everyone and is an ideal place to call home.
- Median House Price: $324,872
- Median Rent: $1,076
- Population: 92,855
- Cost of Living in Hastings: $37,743
Famous Stops!
- Vermillion Falls: For a small town, Hastings is home to an impressive waterfall. Vermillion Falls tumbles over 30 feet of limestone cliffs, creating a picturesque scene that is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and simply enjoying the outdoors.
- Afton State Park: Just a short drive from Hastings, Afton State Park is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and kayaking. The park offers over 20 miles of trails and stunning views of the St. Croix River Valley.
- Afton Alps: Afton Alps is the perfect place to enjoy some winter fun for those who love to hit the slopes. The resort offers downhill skiing and snowboarding and cross-country skiing, and tubing. With its convenient location and variety of activities, Hastings is a great place to visit any time of year.
Top Employers of Hastings:
- Hastings High School
- A-1 Fiberglass, Inc.
- T-L Irrigation Company
- Flanders Provision Company
See Also: Minnesota DMV Change Of Address
4. Owatonna
For people moving to the city, Owatonna, Minnesota, is a great choice. The city is located in the southern part of the state, about 50 miles south of Minneapolis. It has a population of over 25,000 and is the county seat of Steele County. Owatonna is a vibrant community with a strong economy and a thriving arts scene. The city has a variety of businesses and industries and a number of parks and recreational facilities. The city also has a historic downtown area with several Victorian-style buildings. In addition, Owatonna is home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year. Owatonna is an excellent choice for people looking for a city with plenty to do.
- Median House Price: $250,897
- Median Rent: $931
- Population: 25,641
- Cost of Living in Owatonna: $35,947
Famous Stops!
- RAD Zoo: The RAD Zoo is a great place to visit if you’re looking for something fun and educational to do in Owatonna, Minnesota. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. In addition to the animals, the zoo also has a variety of educational exhibits, making it a great place to learn about the natural world.
- State School Orphanage Museum: The State School Orphanage Museum is another great option if you’re looking for things to do in Owatonna, Minnesota. The museum is dedicated to providing visitors with an understanding of the state’s history and culture. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits on the state’s early history, its Orphan Train Program, and more.
- Prairie School Bank: The Prairie School Bank is a must-visit for anyone interested in Owatonna’s history. The bank was originally built in 1876 as a public school. Today, it serves as a museum that houses various exhibits on the city’s history and culture. Visitors can also tour the bank’s historic lobby and learn about its unique architecture.
Top Employers of Owatonna:
- Federated Life Insurance Company
- Owatonna Public Schools
- Viracon
5. Rochester
Rochester, Minnesota, is a great place to live for several reasons. For one, the city has a strong economy and is home to a number of large employers. The cost of living in Rochester is also very reasonable, and the city offers a variety of housing options, from apartments to single-family homes. In addition, Rochester has an excellent school system, and the city is also home to a number of colleges and universities. There are plenty of things to do in Rochester as well, from hiking and biking trails to museums and theaters. And if you’re looking for a place to raise a family, Rochester is an ideal choice. The city has a low crime rate and is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States. So whether you’re moving to Rochester for work or for family, you’ll be sure to find everything you need in this vibrant Minnesota city.
- Median House Price: $211,155
- Median Rent: $1,187
- Population: 204,768
- Cost of Living in Rochester: $35,115
Famous Stops!
- Quarry Hill Nature Center: This nature center is a great place to hike, learn about the environment, and see some amazing views of the city.
- Mayowood: This historic mansion is a must-see for any history lover. Take a tour of the house and grounds, and learn about the lives of the people who once lived there.
- Plummer House: This Victorian-style house is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Rochester. Tour the house and learn about its history or stroll through the beautiful gardens.
Top Employers of Rochester:
- Wegmans
- IBM
- Mayo Clinic
- Kodak
6. Montevideo
Montevideo, Minnesota, is a small city located in the west-central part of the state. The city has a population of just over 5,000 people, and it is the county seat of Chippewa County. Montevideo is a great place to live for people who want a small-town feel but with a larger city’s amenities. The city has a vibrant downtown area with shops and restaurants, and there are several parks and recreation areas. Montevideo is also home to several businesses and industries, so there are many job opportunities. And, for people who love the outdoors, Montevideo is located near many lakes and rivers, so there are plenty of fishing, camping, and hiking opportunities. Montevideo is worth considering if you’re looking for a place to call home.
- Median House Price: $139,879
- Median Rent: $640
- Population: 4,896
- Cost of Living in Montevideo: $34,056
Famous Stops!
- Talking Waters Brewing Company: Montevideo’s local brewery is a great place to sample some of the region’s best craft beer. The taproom is open Wednesday-Saturday, and tours are available by appointment.
- Historic Chippewa City: This living history museum offers visitors a glimpse into life in a 19th-century frontier town. The site includes several restored buildings and costumed interpreters who bring the past to life.
- Lagoon Park: This scenic park is located on the shores of Lake Monroe and features walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. The park is also home to various wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
Top Employers of Montevideo:
- SL Montevideo Technology
- SpecSys
- Chandler Industries
7. Crookston
Crookston, Minnesota, is a small city located in the state’s northwest corner. The city has a population of just over 7,000 people, and it is the county seat of Polk County. Crookston is a great place to live for people who want a small-town feel but with a larger city’s amenities. The city is home to the University of Minnesota-Crookston and a number of parks and recreational facilities. Crookston is also a convenient location for shopping, with a number of grocery stores and malls located within the city limits. For those who are looking for an affordable place to live, Crookston is an excellent option. The cost of living in Crookston is lower than the national average, and the city offers a variety of housing options. Whether you are looking for a cozy apartment or a spacious suburban home, you are sure to find something to fit your budget in Crookston. If you are moving to Crookston, Minnesota, be sure to take advantage of all the city has to offer.
- Median House Price: $130,200
- Median Rent: $875
- Population: 7,839
- Cost of Living in Crookston: $36,400
Famous Stops!
- Crooks Club Bar & Bottle Shop: Itis the perfect place to start your night out in Crookston. They have a wide selection of beer, wine, and spirits, and the staff is always happy to help you find the perfect drink. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, and you’re sure to have a great time here.
Top Employers of Crookston:
- Dee
- Tri-Valley Opportunity Council
- New Flyer of America
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a place to live that is affordable and has plenty of job opportunities, Minnesota may be the perfect state for you. The cities on this list are some of the most affordable places to call home in the state, and they all have thriving job markets. So, if you’re ready to make the move to Minnesota, check out one of these great cities! Thanks for Reading!
FAQs
What is the cost of living in Minnesota?
The cost of living in Minnesota is lower than 3% of the national average.
What are the top employers in Minnesota?
Some of the top employers in Minnesota are Target, UnitedHealth Group, Cargill, and Best Buy.
What is there to do in Minnesota?
There are plenty of things to do in Minnesota! Some of the state’s most popular attractions include the Mall of America, the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, and the Como Zoo.
Is Minnesota a good place to live?
Yes, Minnesota is a great place to live! The state has a low cost of living, plenty of job opportunities, and a wide variety of things to do.
What is the crime rate in Minnesota?
The crime rate in Minnesota is lower than the national average. The violent crime rate ranges from 2.4 to 2.8 per 1,000 people, while property crime rose from 20.9 to 21.2 per 1,000.
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