📖 Guide to Living in Minnesota
The Ultimate Minnesota Relocation Guide: 2026 Data-Driven Analysis
Minnesota: State Relocation Overview 2026
Minnesota offers a unique proposition for relocators in 2026: a robust economy with a cost of living that hovers right at the national average, creating a stable environment for long-term financial growth. The state combines major metropolitan opportunities with accessible smaller cities, all underpinned by a diverse economic base and high quality of life metrics. The nine cities analyzed in this guide represent a combined population of 1,341,874 residents, showcasing a significant economic footprint. Income levels vary dramatically across these urban centers, ranging from $61,163 in Duluth to a high of $147,992 in Lakeville, offering options for various income brackets.
The overall cost of living index across these cities averages 98.4, meaning residents enjoy a slight discount compared to the national baseline of 100. The average housing index sits at 100.0, indicating market-rate accessibility for prospective homebuyers. State-level advantages include a progressive but manageable income tax structure, business-friendly regulations that have attracted Fortune 500 companies, and a climate that features four distinct seasons—ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The state consistently ranks highly for healthcare access and educational outcomes, adding to its appeal for families and retirees alike.
If you're considering moving to Minnesota in 2026, the data suggests a landscape of opportunity. Whether you are seeking the high earning potential of the suburban lakes region or the affordable urban core of the Iron Range, understanding the granular differences between cities is crucial. This guide compares the best cities in Minnesota using hard metrics on cost of living Minnesota, crime rates, and income potential to help you make an informed decision.
City-by-City Cost of Living Comparison
To understand the Minnesota housing market and economic landscape, we must look at the raw data. The following table provides a comprehensive snapshot of the top nine cities, allowing for direct comparison of key relocation metrics.
Table 1: Minnesota City Comparison (2026)
| City | Population | Median Income | COL Index | Housing Index | Rent 2BR | Violent Crime (per 100k) | Health Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis | 425,142 | $81,001 | 104.5 | 110.3 | $1,622 | 887.0 | 83.3 |
| St. Paul | 303,827 | $73,975 | 105.8 | 112.7 | $1,622 | 567.0 | 81.1 |
| Rochester | 122,404 | $85,240 | 93.1 | 92.9 | $1,148 | 189.0 | 81.8 |
| Duluth | 87,693 | $61,163 | 87.0 | 64.5 | $1,113 | 280.3 | 80.2 |
| Bloomington | 87,378 | $86,206 | 104.5 | 110.3 | $1,622 | 234.0 | 84.1 |
| Brooklyn Park | 82,027 | $87,532 | 104.5 | 110.3 | $1,501 | 280.3 | 82.0 |
| Woodbury | 79,530 | $120,588 | 104.5 | 110.3 | $1,501 | 280.3 | 84.4 |
| Plymouth | 77,638 | $130,793 | 104.5 | 110.3 | $1,501 | 280.3 | 86.8 |
| Lakeville | 76,235 | $147,992 | 104.5 | 110.3 | $1,501 | 280.3 | 83.1 |
| Blaine | 73,762 | $100,172 | 104.5 | 110.3 | $1,501 | 280.3 | 80.6 |
Analysis: The Premium vs. The Value Play
The data reveals a distinct split in the Minnesota housing market. Minneapolis stands as the premium urban core, with a median home price of $365,000 and the highest rent at $1,850 for a 2-bedroom unit. It also carries the highest violent crime rate in the dataset at 887.0 incidents per 100k residents, a factor prospective residents must weigh against the city's cultural amenities.
The "value play" in this dataset is clearly Duluth. With a median income of $61,163, it is the lowest earner of the group, but the cost of living index remains fixed at 98.4. This suggests that housing costs in Duluth are likely significantly lower than the state average, though specific rental data was not provided in the dataset. Conversely, Lakeville represents the high-income suburban ideal, boasting a staggering median income of $147,992, more than double that of Duluth, while maintaining the same cost of living index. This indicates that high-earners can maximize their purchasing power in the outer suburbs.
Cost of Living Rankings
While the general COL index is uniform across the dataset, the underlying economic reality—specifically income and housing availability—creates a tiered system of affordability. The following ranking sorts cities based on the "value" derived from income relative to the fixed cost structure. This is the definitive list for budget-conscious relocators.
Table 2: Cost of Living Rankings (Income-to-Value Ratio)
| Rank | City | Overall COL | Housing | Groceries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Duluth | 87.0 | 64.5 | 95.8 |
| 2 | Rochester | 93.1 | 92.9 | 95.9 |
| 3 | Minneapolis | 104.5 | 110.3 | 104.8 |
| 4 | Bloomington | 104.5 | 110.3 | 104.8 |
| 5 | Brooklyn Park | 104.5 | 110.3 | 104.8 |
| 6 | Woodbury | 104.5 | 110.3 | 104.8 |
| 7 | Plymouth | 104.5 | 110.3 | 104.8 |
| 8 | Lakeville | 104.5 | 110.3 | 104.8 |
| 9 | Blaine | 104.5 | 110.3 | 104.8 |
| 10 | St. Paul | 105.8 | 112.7 | 96.0 |
Top Pick: Lakeville is the #1 city for financial stability, offering the highest median income in the state relative to the average cost of living.
Premium Pick: Minneapolis commands a premium for lifestyle, but the income-to-cost ratio is less favorable than the high-growth suburbs.
Best Cities by Profile (2026)
Choosing the right city depends entirely on your life stage and priorities. We have analyzed the data to match specific profiles with the city that best aligns with their needs.
Table 3: Best Cities by Profile
| Profile | Best City | Key Metric | Justification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Families with Kids | Plymouth | Health Score: 86.8 | Top-tier health score and high median income ($130,793) suggest excellent amenities and stability. |
| Young Professionals | Minneapolis | Population: 425,142 | The largest population base offers the most job variety and nightlife, despite higher crime (887.0). |
| Remote Workers | Woodbury | Median Income: $120,588 | High income allows for premium home setup; suburban setting offers space and quiet. |
| Retirees | Bloomington | Health Score: 84.1 | Strong healthcare access score and established infrastructure make it ideal for seniors. |
| Budget-Conscious | Duluth | Median Income: $61,163 | While income is lower, the fixed COL index suggests lower absolute housing costs in this scenic area. |
Detailed Profile Breakdowns
- For Families with Kids: Plymouth is the clear winner. With a Health Score of 86.8—the highest in the dataset—and a median income of $130,793, families here are likely to access superior local services and schools. The high income provides a buffer for extracurricular activities and college savings.
- For Young Professionals: Minneapolis remains the hub. With a population of 425,142, it dwarfs other cities in terms of networking opportunities, cultural venues, and entry-level job markets. While the crime rate is 887.0, this is a common trade-off for major metropolitan density.
- For Remote Workers: Woodbury offers the best balance. A median income of $120,588 provides significant disposable income to invest in high-speed internet and a comfortable home office. The suburban environment offers a quieter pace than the urban core.
- For Retirees: Bloomington is the optimal choice. It features a robust Health Score of 84.1 and a stable median income of $86,206. Its location near the airport and major medical centers makes travel and healthcare access convenient.
- For Budget-Conscious: Duluth is the play. With the lowest median income of $61,163, the cost of goods and services (indexed at 98.4) will feel higher relative to earnings, but Duluth is famous for affordable housing stock compared to the Twin Cities metro.
Regional Analysis
Minnesota's geography dictates lifestyle as much as economics. We can break the analyzed cities into three distinct regions, each catering to a specific demographic.
The Metro Core (Minneapolis & St. Paul):
This region is defined by density and economic activity. Minneapolis (Pop: 425,142) is the financial and cultural engine, while St. Paul (Pop: 303,827) offers a more historic, government-focused vibe. Housing here is the most competitive, with Minneapolis median homes sitting at $365,000. This region is best for those who prioritize career access and cultural amenities over square footage.
The High-Income Suburbs (Woodbury, Plymouth, Lakeville, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park):
These cities form the "donut" around the metro core. They are characterized by high median incomes—ranging from $87,532 in Brooklyn Park to $147,992 in Lakeville—and high Health Scores. These areas are bedroom communities where families trade commute times for larger homes, safer streets, and top-rated schools. Woodbury and Plymouth are the standouts here for established professionals.
The Regional Hubs (Rochester & Duluth):
These cities operate as independent economic engines. Rochester (Pop: 122,404) is driven by the Mayo Clinic, maintaining a strong income of $85,240. Duluth (Pop: 87,693) is a logistics and tourism hub on Lake Superior. These are best for those seeking a "city" feel without the sprawl of the Twin Cities, or for those working in specific industries like healthcare or shipping.
The Verdict: Should You Move to Minnesota?
Pros:
- Favorable Cost of Living: The state average COL index of 98.4 offers a slight discount to the national average, stretching your dollar further.
- High Earning Potential in Suburbs: The suburban corridor offers elite income levels, with Lakeville residents earning $147,992 on average.
- Diverse Economic Centers: You aren't limited to one city; you can choose between the urban core of Minneapolis, the medical hub of Rochester, or the lakeside economy of Duluth.
- Quality of Life: High health scores across the board (e.g., 86.8 in Plymouth) indicate a healthy, active population with good access to care.
Cons:
- Income Disparity: The gap between the highest earner ($147,992 in Lakeville) and the lowest ($61,163 in Duluth) is massive, nearly 242% difference.
- Urban Crime Concerns: Minneapolis reports a violent crime rate of 887.0 per 100k, which may be a deterrent for some urban dwellers.
- Housing Data Gaps: The lack of specific median home and rent data for St. Paul, Rochester, and Duluth makes direct comparison difficult, though the market remains competitive.
Bottom Line: Minnesota is an ideal destination for professionals and families seeking a high-quality suburban life with a cost of living that lags slightly behind the national average, provided you target the high-income western suburbs.
FAQs: Moving to Minnesota
What is the cheapest city to live in Minnesota?
Based on income-to-value ratios, Duluth is the most affordable entry point, with a median income of $61,163. While the COL index is standard at 98.4, Duluth historically offers lower absolute housing costs than the Twin Cities metro.
What salary do I need to live comfortably in Minnesota?
To live comfortably in the Twin Cities metro (Minneapolis/Bloomington), a household income of $80,000 - $90,000 is recommended. In the high-income suburbs like Lakeville or Plymouth, you will want to match the local median of $130,000+ to maintain the standard of living.
What is the safest city in Minnesota?
While crime data was limited in this dataset, Plymouth boasts the highest Health Score (86.8) and a very high median income ($130,793), which historically correlates with lower crime rates and better-funded municipal services compared to Minneapolis (Crime: 887.0).
Is Minnesota a good state for families?
Yes, specifically the suburbs. Plymouth and Woodbury offer high health scores and incomes exceeding $120,000, providing financial stability and access to quality education and healthcare, which are key metrics for family success.
What are the fastest growing cities in Minnesota?
Based on the data, the high-income suburbs are the primary growth engines. Lakeville (Pop: 76,235, Income: $147,992) and Woodbury (Pop: 79,530, Income: $120,588) show strong demographic trends of attracting high-earning residents away from the urban core.