Want to move to the Twin Cities but not sure whether to relocate to Minneapolis or St. Paul? While these mid-sized cities are both fantastic places to live, Minnesota’s largest city and capital each offer different living experiences. We’ve researched their communities, activities, job markets, and other important considerations to help make your decision easier. Read our guide to figure out which one best suits your lifestyle!
When it comes to moving to St. Paul or Minneapolis, the decision ultimately comes down to your personal lifestyle and needs. While they partially share a job market and public transit, the Twin Cities have their own offerings to residents. Minneapolis is often the better fit for those who thrive in a bustling urban environment, as the city offers a strong corporate presence, lively arts scene, and great nightlife. But if you prefer a more suburban atmosphere with a strong community feel, historic charm, and abundant government and healthcare job opportunities, St. Paul may be the right choice for you.
By comparing the cost of living in Minneapolis and St. Paul, you can get a better idea of which of the Twin Cities better suits your budget. Learn how far your dollar goes in these top Minnesota cities.
Minneapolis offers a relatively competitive cost of living for a major metro area, sitting only 8% above the national average. Here, you’ll also enjoy lower-than-average costs for daily expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation compared to the U.S. at large. While Minneapolis housing costs are slightly higher than those in St. Paul, many residents are willing to pay the difference to enjoy a more urban lifestyle—not to mention, home prices are still significantly lower than what you’ll find in larger cities like New York or Los Angeles. There are also a variety of affordable neighborhoods in Minneapolis where you can find particularly budget-friendly housing. Plus, Minneapolis has a higher-than-average median household income compared to both St. Paul and the nation as a whole, helping residents afford the city’s higher living costs.
Partially linked to the variety of historic homes seen throughout the city, the median home price in St. Paul sits lower than Minneapolis’ at $217,100—saving residents an average of $51,000. Not only is St. Paul often a more affordable entry point for homebuyers compared to its neighboring Twin City, but it also boasts a lower overall cost of living. In fact, costs for utilities, transportation, and goods and services all fall below the national average. This relative affordability makes St. Paul particularly attractive to young families, especially considering the variety of budget-friendly St. Paul neighborhoods there are to choose from—such as Como Park, Macalester-Groveland, and more.
Q: Is Minneapolis or St. Paul more affordable?
A: St. Paul is generally more affordable than Minneapolis, with a cost of living that’s only 2% higher than the national average. It’s important to note, however, that Minneapolis’ cost of living is only about 8% above the national average—and its higher-than-average median household income can help offset any added expenses.
The Twin Cities each have strong job markets, which is why many residents commute between the two for work—but Minneapolis and St. Paul each have distinct core economic landscapes. Naturally, many programs for colleges near the Twin Cities can help graduates settle comfortably in the surrounding job markets. Whether you’re a student or adult relocating to the area, consider which city offers better opportunities for your industry.
A corporate powerhouse with a low unemployment rate and vast selection of top institutions, Minneapolis is a fantastic choice for those seeking higher education or pursuing a career in industries like finance, manufacturing, or technology. Major schools in the area include the University of Minnesota’s Twin Cities campus, North Central University, Augsburg University, Dunwoody College, and Minneapolis College—all of which provide a great pipeline into employment through specialized training and degree programs in business, engineering, skilled trades, and more. Post-graduation employment opportunities can be found at the Fortune 500 company headquarters for Target, U.S. Bancorp, and Ameriprise Financial. Or check out global companies like General Mills—located in nearby Golden Valley—or the numerous Downtown Minneapolis financial services firms!
As the state capital, it’s no surprise that one of St. Paul’s major employment sectors is government—though other top industries include business, healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing. St. Paul’s many higher education institutions—including the University of St. Thomas, Minnesota, St. Catherine University, Hamline University, Macalester College, Saint Paul College, and Concordia University, St. Paul—offer well-established programs that can prime you for careers in each of these areas. While residents can seek employment with the State of Minnesota and various county and city agencies, you can also find excellent job opportunities with healthcare hubs like Gillette Children’s Hospital, manufacturing powerhouses like 3M, and science-based companies like Ecolab.
Q: How does the average salary in Minneapolis compare to St. Paul?
A: Minneapolis has a slightly higher income per capita and median household income compared to St. Paul. However, St. Paul has a slightly lower overall cost of living compared to Minneapolis—meaning your salary can go a bit further in the capital city.
While it can be handy to own a car in both cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul also offer environmentally-friendly public transit options—including convenient bus systems and light rails that connect the two cities—and other sustainable solutions for pedestrians and bikers. Here are some ways to navigate each city.
In addition to offering a robust public transportation system, Minneapolis is a bikeable, walk-friendly community—with bike shares and pedestrian walkways on both sides of over 90% of the city’s streets. If you’d prefer to get around via public transit, there are plenty of options via METRO Transit—including the Blue Line, which offers access to the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) and Mall of America, as well as the Green Line, which connects to St. Paul. Minneapolis has also been a testing ground for the network’s high-frequency Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines, allowing residents to benefit from speedy, direct commutes through the city’s dense, gridded urban neighborhoods. There are even “Free Ride” zones available along Nicollet Mall.
Though less extensive than Minneapolis, St. Paul’s public transit system is reliable. The system’s best feature is the METRO Green Line light rail, which provides a crucial direct link from Downtown St. Paul to Downtown Minneapolis while passing through the University of Minnesota campus—perfect for commuting students and workers. Although St. Paul has fewer rail lines than Minneapolis, the city is rapidly expanding its fast bus service, the Arterial Bus Rapid Transit (BRT). These newer bus routes are designed for speed on major St. Paul streets, featuring upgraded stations and pay-before-you-board plans to make travel across the capital city quicker, more sustainable, and more efficient. Additionally, the historic Union Depot serves as a vital transfer point for intercity travel via Amtrak, local buses, and light rail trains. Not to mention, Downtown St. Paul is highly walkable, giving residents and visitors easy access to amenities and transit.
Q: Can you get around Minneapolis and St. Paul without a car?
A: Yes, it’s possible to get around both St. Paul and Minneapolis without a car, but it can be helpful to have one—especially in St. Paul, which has slightly more limited public transit options than Minneapolis. However, both cities offer reliable public transportation systems—along with great bikeability and walkability—so you can get where you need to go without a personal vehicle.
As two Upper Midwest cities, the Twin Cities experience four distinct seasons, with wonderful opportunities for outdoor activities year-round. While Minneapolis embraces waterfront recreation, St. Paul has an expansive regional park system. Discover fun things to do outside in both Minneapolis and St. Paul below!
Minneapolis offers a wide array of outdoor recreation—but it’s known as the “City of Lakes” for a reason. With over 22 lakes scattered throughout the city, residents have waterfront recreation at their fingertips. The Chain of Lakes—which includes Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, and Lake of the Isles—forms the heart of summer activity, from boating and fishing to kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. But the outdoor fun doesn’t stop there! Bike the entire city on the Grand Rounds National Scenic Byway, which offers over 50 miles of trails and parkways. Go hiking, birdwatch, or admire the changing leaves during the fall at the Mississippi Gorge Regional Park. Relax by the beautiful Minnehaha Falls at Minnehaha Regional Park. Picnic near the lighthouse, go for a walk with a friend, and appreciate the sounds of the river at Boom Island Park. Or wait for snow to go cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and sledding at Theodore Wirth Regional Park.
St. Paul is known for its exceptional parks system and abundance of charming outdoor destinations. See giraffes and sea lions up close—and for free—at Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, go boating or fishing on Como Lake, or play a round at Como Park Golf Course at popular year-round destination, Como Park. Enjoy a picnic, attend seasonal concerts, admire public art, and more at Rice Park. Explore the expansive Mississippi River shoreline at parks like Harriet Island Regional Park and Crosby Farm Regional Park—which offer miles of paved trails for biking and walking, scenic picnic spots, and even opportunities for a paddleboat cruise. Or snowboard, sled, and ski during wintertime at Como Park Ski Center.
Q: Are there better outdoor activities in Minneapolis or St. Paul?
A: Both Minneapolis and St. Paul offer great opportunities for outdoor recreation—in fact, Twin Cities residents often take advantage of both cities’ outdoor recreation options. Minneapolis offers unparalleled lake access, whereas St. Paul has an extensive park system with lots of green space.
While Minneapolis buzzes with modern creative energy—offering world-class theaters, live music venues, craft breweries, and more—St. Paul has loads of historic charm, with community-centered traditions and family-friendly activities. Learn more about what life is like in Minneapolis vs. St. Paul below!
Whether you’re seeking inclusivity, a vibrant arts scene, or unique eats and drinks, Minneapolis boasts a progressive, youthful spirit that captures it all. Celebrate with the Minneapolis LGBT+ community at Twin Cities Pride, one of the best pride festivals in the U.S. Discover new favorite pieces and exhibitions like Year of the Horse: Hoofbeats through Time or Ink Rhythms on the Breeze: The Art of Chinese Fan Paintings at the Minneapolis Institute of Art (MIA). Enjoy classics like A Christmas Carol, plays like Sleuth, and musicals like Come From Away at the Guthrie Theater. Witness the enduring legacy of Minneapolis’ indie rock, jazz, and hip-hop scenes—which launched artists like Prince and The Replacements—at venues like First Avenue, The Dakota, and Fine Line. Explore the extensive craft brewery scene throughout the city. Or savor innovative culinary takes—from locally-sourced Nordic cuisine at restaurants like Tullibee and FIKA Cafe to creative Southeast Asian fusion at Hai Hai or Gai Noi.
St. Paul’s city culture is defined by a sense of historic charm, community, and appreciation for the arts. Visit literary landmarks like Summit Avenue and Landmark Plaza. Learn about the city’s military roots at Historic Fort Snelling. Walk through the Dinosaurs & Fossils Gallery or check out exhibits like Race: Are We So Different? at the Science Museum of Minnesota. Experience bands, ballet performances, and themed dance parties at the historic Fitzgerald Theater. Gather together for major annual events in St. Paul like the Winter Carnival, which features parades, ice sculptures, and other family-friendly fun. St. Paul is also renowned for its diverse culinary scene. Start your day with mimosas paired with a Soft Scramble, The Buttered Tin Hash, or a Walleye Cake Bennie at The Buttered Tin. Share an order of Steamed Pork Buns before digging into Shrimp & Grits or Bacon Dashi Ramen at Tongue in Cheek. Or shop for Italian staples or sit down for pastas and pizza at Cossetta, the city’s iconic dining hall and market.
Q: Are Minneapolis and St. Paul good places to live for LGBTQ people?
A: Yes, Minneapolis and St. Paul are both considered very LGBTQ-friendly, with a wide array of inclusive neighborhoods, businesses, and community events and festivals. In fact, Minneapolis ranks among the most LGBTQ+ friendly metropolitan areas in the country!
Both Minneapolis and St. Paul are excellent places to raise a family, offering highly-rated schools, family-friendly activities, and affordable Twin Cities housing options. Read on to figure out which city best suits your family’s wants and needs.
Minneapolis is an incredibly welcoming city, anchored by its variety of family-friendly neighborhoods—where you’ll find fantastic schools like Kenny Elementary School, Yinghua Academy, and more. Minneapolis suburbs also boast a variety of top-rated schools, including Edina High School. But the city’s big pull for families lays in its abundance of exciting attractions. For indoor family fun near Minneapolis, check out Nickelodeon Universe, the Museum of Illusions, and the SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium at Mall of America. Explore the city’s Nordic history, enjoy interactive exhibits, or attend seasonal events like the Julmarknad Handcraft Market & Festival at the American Swedish Institute—located in the historic Turnblad Mansion. Take the whole family to a Minnesota Vikings (NFL) game at U.S. Bank Stadium. Or watch live performances of shows like Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! and Roald Dahl’s The Enormous Crocodile The Musical at the Children’s Theatre.
For families seeking historic charm and close-knit communities, St. Paul is the ideal choice. Safe, family-friendly St. Paul neighborhoods like Macalester-Groveland, Highland Park, and Como Park feature picturesque streets and provide easy access to respected public schools—including Twin Cities German Immersion School, Harding Senior High School, and more. The city also offers a wide range of kid-friendly activities. Encounter a life-sized woolly mammoth replica or see a planetarium show at the Bell Museum. Search for members of the Peanuts gang around town to teach your kiddos about Charles Schulz’ legacy. Play mini golf and arcade games or rock out as a family at events like Silly Miss Tilly’s Karaoke at Can Can Wonderland. Go on seasonally-themed excursions like the Ice Cream Train or the Pumpkin Express at the Minnesota Transportation Museum. Explore interactive exhibits like Sprouts, Imaginopolis, and The Scramble at the Minnesota Children’s Museum. Or cheer on the Minnesota United FC at Allianz Field and the Minnesota Wild (NHL) at the Grand Casino Arena.
Q: Where can I find fun family activities in the Twin Cities?
A: The Twin Cities offer a vast array of things to do for families. Some of the best Minneapolis attractions for families include Mall of America and the Children’s Theatre Company. For family fun in St. Paul, check out top spots like Can Can Wonderland, the Minnesota Children’s Museum, or the Bell Museum!
Minneapolis and St. Paul both appeal to singles and young professionals, but offer slightly different vibes. Minneapolis boasts a faster-paced nightlife scene and trendy housing, whereas St. Paul has a more relaxed feel and unique ways to form connections. Explore what each city has to offer!
Minneapolis is consistently named one of the best cities for singles and young professionals, with youthful neighborhoods, vibrant nightlife options, and lots of great entertainment venues. Find trendy housing in neighborhoods like the chic North Loop—known for its loft-style living and artisanal breweries—or Uptown, which offers lakeside access alongside a buzzing street scene. Meet up for a latte and a chocolate croissant at Spyhouse Coffee Roasters before spending the day shopping with friends at the Minneapolis Farmers Market. Stop in to sip a Scottish Ale and chow down street tacos at Mackenzie Pub while exploring Hennepin Avenue. Eat BBQ, drink beer, and compete in trivia nights at StormKing Brewpub & BBQ. Catch a show from popular performers like Spiritbox, Sarah McLachlan, and John Mulaney at The Armory. Or grab a drink and dance the night away at the Skyway Theatre!
If you’re seeking a slower-paced lifestyle and a variety of ways to hang out and meet new people, you might feel more at home in St. Paul than its Twin City counterpart. St. Paul neighborhoods for young professionals have a more relaxed vibe but still offer unique flair, and the historic Lowertown area is a hub of activity—with low-key breweries, cool artists’ lofts, and more. Chat with friends over a freshly brewed beverage at Backstory Coffee Roasters. Find cozy boutiques and excellent eateries along Grand Avenue. Buy fresh produce and locally-made decor at the St. Paul Farmers Market. Catch a Saints (MiLB) game at CHS Field. Head below the city to take a guided tour of the Wabasha Street Caves—and stay for swing dancing after. Check out an open mic or trivia night at Camp Bar & Cabaret. Or jam out to live rock music at community favorite, the Turf Club!
Q: How is Minneapolis nightlife compared to St. Paul nightlife?
A: Minneapolis generally offers a larger and more diverse nightlife scene compared to St. Paul, with lots of bars, breweries, live music venues, and more. However, St. Paul offers unique experiences like the Wabasha Street Caves for those looking for an exciting alternative to traditional nightlife.
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The team at Extra Space Storage understands that moving to a new city can be stressful, which is why we’ve created our Best Places to Live selections to help make the process easier. We’ve done the research for you—considering factors like cost of living, job market, local attractions, and education—to provide a well-rounded and accurate view of each metro area. Check out our methodology page today to learn more about how we select the best places to live.
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