Do you wonder what the best neighborhoods in Minneapolis are? If so, you’re probably chasing a dream lifestyle, considering a move, looking for an apartment, or buying a home. Whether you’re drawn to the City of Lakes’s picturesque natural scene, diverse cultural and artistic vibrancy, elite educational opportunities, or promising career advancements, Minneapolis won’t disappoint you. With more than 80 Minneapolis Neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm, you’re sure to find a community that feels like home and offers a great start for whatever you’re looking for. If the search feels overwhelming, rest assured — uhomes.com has you covered with our comprehensive guide to the nicest neighborhoods in Minneapolis.
The Best Neighborhoods in Minneapolis1. North Loop2. Uptown3. Whittier4. Downtown West5. Loring Park6. Linden Hills7. Kenny8. Lowry Hill9. Ventura Village10. Stevens Square-Loring HeightsMinneapolis Neighborhood MapSecure Your Home in One of the Best Neighborhoods in MinneapolisConclusionFAQ
What are the Twin Cities?
What is the safest neighborhood in Minneapolis?
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Minneapolis?
The Best Neighborhoods in Minneapolis
1. North Loop
Hightlights: vibrant arts scene, trendy restaurants, & historic architecture.
- Median Home Prices: $310,000
- Average Rent: $1,570
- Crime rate: 175% higher than the national average.
- Infrastructure: North Loop is well-designed, offering residents convenient access to transportation, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. It offers convenient access to major bus routes, light rail stations, and a well-developed road network, ensuring easy commute and travel via public transportation and private vehicles. North Loop is well-served by educational institutions, catering to students of all ages. It is in proximity to Minneapolis Community and Technical College, a prominent institution of higher learning and career training. The neighborhood also boasts several hospitals and clinics, including Hennepin Healthcare, ensuring residents receive prompt and effective medical care.
- Life Experience: North Loop is one of the nicest neighborhoods in Minneapolis for young professionals, art lovers and nightlife enthusiasts. It is home to creative and tech companies, galleries, and art studios, drawing young people with multiple opportunities. North Loop boasts a wide selection of dining and entertainment venues, including The Office Pub & Grill, a popular sports bar renowned for its extensive menu and comfortable atmosphere. As one of the best neighborhoods in Minneapolis, MN, it serves as a major entertainment hub, offering a wide selection of music venues that contribute to a vibrant nightlife scene. Bunker’s Music Bar & Grill, for instance, is renowned for live music performances, showcasing a different band each week. Close to sports venues such as the Target Center and Target Field, it is easy for residents to watch sporting events.
2. Uptown
Hightlights: trendy shops, restaurants, & strong sense of community.
- Median Home Prices: $286,250
- Average Rent: $1,515
- Crime rate: 269% higher than the national average.
- Infrastructure: Uptown offers various modes of transportation, with multiple light rail lines and bus routes passing through and several stops located throughout. Ample parking spots are available on the street and in parking lots, making it convenient for drivers. Regarding education, the University of Minnesota Twin Cities is near Uptown, which means a large number of students, adding a vibrant atmosphere in this neighborhood in Minneapolis. Public libraries, such as Walker Library, provide quiet spaces for reading and studying. In terms of healthcare, Uptown is well-equipped with hospitals and clinics that can meet the everyday medical needs of the community.
- Life Experience: Uptown offers a rich nightlife, stylish shops, a safe community environment, and beautiful natural surroundings, making it one of the best places to live in Minneapolis. Whether you’re a young professional, a family, or someone who enjoys a slower pace of life, it’s a melting pot of diverse needs.
The neighborhood is a paradise for food lovers, with restaurants in different styles. There’s Chino Latino, which serves fusion cuisine, and World Street Kitchen, among many other specialty restaurants. Uptown also boasts plenty of cafes, bakeries, and ice cream shops like Milkjam Creamery. For shopping, Uptown has a mix of chain stores, unique boutiques, and the Seven Points shopping center. Uptown is among the neighborhoods of Minneapolis that offer various leisure and entertainment venues. The Walker Art Center, the historic Lagoon Cinema, and Bryant Lake Bowl & Theater for bowling, drinks, dining, and live shows are among the popular places. The Uptown Art Fair is a famous event held annually in this area. There are also beautiful lakes such as Bde Maka Ska, Lake Harriet, and Lake of the Isles for outdoor activities.
3. Whittier
Hightlights: family-friendly community, good schools, plenty of parks & green spaces.
- Median Home Prices: $147,500
- Average Rent: $1,285
- Crime rate: 182% higher than the national average.
- Infrastructure: As one of the best areas to live in Minneapolis, Whittier is well connected. It has numerous bus stops and is near a major transportation artery, Interstate 35W. Whittier Elementary School is located in the community, providing an excellent educational environment for children. The Minneapolis Medical Center is also in proximity, ensuring residents have ready access to comprehensive medical care. In addition, the area provides ample spaces for outdoor activities, with popular parks such as Whittier Park, Washburn Fair Oaks Park, and the Midtown Greenway.
- Life Experience: Whittier belongs to Minneapolis, MN, neighborhoods suitable for commuters, with easy access to downtown, employment opportunities, entertainment and dining. There are also quality schools, parks, and a safe environment for families.
The Mall of America, with 520 stores, is nearby. Nicollet Avenue is the main commercial street, boasting grocery stores, supermarkets such as Aldi and Cub Foods, butchers, meat stores, and food shops. Whittier also features national specialties such as Cedar + Stone, Urban Table serving farm-to-table cuisine, Fire Lake Grill, Cocktail Bar, Crave American Kitchen and Sushi bars. Popular coffee shops in the area include Spyhouse Coffee, and Dunn Bros. Whittier has a rich nightlife with bars like LARS Bar & Restaurant. As one of the best places to live in Minneapolis, MN, it offers a wide range of entertainment options. The Minneapolis Institute of Arts and the Walker Art Center, which regularly host art exhibitions, appeal to enthusiasts. The Children’s Theater Company is a notable cultural attraction, offering engaging shows for families. For bowling lovers, Bryant-Lake Bowl offers perfect venues.
4. Downtown West
Hightlights: close to the city center, options of amenities, entertainment, & transportation.
- Median Home Prices: $432,500
- Average Rent: $1,579
- Crime rate: 144% higher than the national average.
- Infrastructure: Downtown West is considered the best neighborhood in Minneapolis, offering excellent infrastructure, liveability, and high quality of life. The public transportation system is highly developed, with subways such as the Warehouse District/Hennepin Avenue Station, Nicollet Mall Station, and several bus routes, making it very convenient to get around. The areas in Minneapolis are well-served by public elementary and secondary schools, including Webster Elementary. The Minneapolis Medical Center is also nearby, ensuring convenient access to healthcare services. In addition to the convenience of urban living, there is no shortage of green space, with parks such as First Bridge Park and Mill Ruins Park allowing residents to get in touch with nature.
- Life Experience: As a major business centre, this neighborhood in Minneapolis is home to Fortune 500 companies such as Target and Wells Fargo, and the University of Minnesota is just a 20-minute bus ride away. Downtown West is, therefore, one of the best neighborhoods in Minneapolis, St Paul, for commuters and students seeking convenience and nightlife.
Downtown West’s accessibility to public transportation, excellent dining and entertainment options, and central location make it one of the neighborhoods in Minneapolis for tourists to experience the cityscape and culture. The Nicollet, a 12-block shopping, dining and entertainment district, is connected by the Minneapolis Skywalk system, creating a walkable experience. The Mall of America is also close to the area. Downtown West offers a wide selection of dining options for culinary delights, including Manny’s Steakhouse, Owamni by the Sioux Chef, and Hell’s Kitchen. The nightlife is vibrant, with popular bars such as The Local, Prohibition Bar and Brit’s Pub being great venues to hold parties and meet new people. The Orpheum Theatre, State Theatre and First Avenue are also popular places to experience the nightlife in the best place to live in Minneapolis. For fans of sports events, the Target Center offers opportunities to experience thrilling moments that give an adrenaline rush.
5. Loring Park
Hightlights: beautiful historic homes, tree-lined streets, parks, & proximity to downtown.
- Median Home Prices: $172,000
- Average Rent: $1,243
- Crime rate: 210% higher than the national average.
- Infrastructure: Loring Park combines lush greenery, beautiful scenery, and convenient amenities. Spanning 33.94 acres of green space, it features various outdoor activity areas, including walking paths, bike lanes, basketball courts, tennis courts, a skating rink, and iconic landmarks like the Berger Fountain. With numerous bus routes, it’s easy to reach all parts of the city. The University of Minnesota Twin Cities is just a half-hour bus ride from this neighborhood, making it one of Minneapolis’s best neighborhoods for students.
- Life Experience: Loring Park blends natural landscapes, artistic and cultural elements, and fine dining. Throughout the year, it hosts all kinds of events, such as the Twin Cities LGBTQ + Pride Festival, the Loring Park Art Festival, and the Winter Holidazzle. Bars and clubs in Loring Park often feature live music performances and themed events. The Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, which is connected to the area via the Hixon Whitney Pedestrian Bridge, are conveniently nearby. The diverse dining options in Loring Park have led many food enthusiasts to consider it one of the best neighborhoods to live in Minneapolis. For example, Café and Bar Lurcat offers refined American urban cuisine, blending classical and modern styles, while Sonora Mexican Kitchen and Bar reinterprets traditional Mexican food with a contemporary twist. In terms of shopping, Loring Park is just a short distance from shopping areas like Nicollet Mall, where daily shopping needs can be easily met.
6. Linden Hills
Hightlights: beautiful homes, low crime rates, & family-friendly environment.
- Median Home Prices: $642,291
- Average Rent: $1,685
- Crime rate: 7% higher than the national average.
- Infrastructure: Linden Hills offers a unique mode of public transportation — the Como-Harriet streetcar line runs through the community, with major stops and garages near 42nd Street and Queens Boulevard. For longer travel, the nearest entrance to Interstate 94 is approximately 3 miles away. The city center of Minneapolis is approximately 7 miles away. Linden Hills is well-served by clinics and small medical facilities catering to residents’ daily medical needs. However, larger general hospitals are located in downtown Minneapolis or other areas. Regarding education, Linden Hills boasts quality schools, including Lake Harriet Community Schools, Anthony Middle School, and Southwest High School.
- Life Experience: Considered one of the best places to live in Minneapolis, Linden Hills’s affluence is underscored by quality schools, ample outdoor and cultural activities, and high-end restaurants and shops. It is situated near Lake Bde Maka Ska and Lake Harriet, making it a highly sought-after neighborhood in Minneapolis among nature and outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to outdoor activities, recreational activities for residents include concerts and movies at Lake Harriet Bandshell Park. The Como-Harriet Streetcar line runs through the park from the Minnesota Streetcar Museum garage, offering a distinctive way to navigate the area. The neighborhood in Minneapolis also has numerous bars and cafes, providing comfortable socializing spots. When it comes to shopping, there are many local stores and farmers’ markets offering high-quality food and produce. France Avenue has many specialty boutiques and shopping centers for various shopping needs.
7. Kenny
Hightlights: peaceful community, good schools, & parks.
- Median Home Prices: $440,021
- Average Rent: $1,274
- Crime rate: 100% lower than the national average.
- Infrastructure: Kenny is close to Lyndale Avenue South and Highway 121, making it easily accessible for car travel. Traffic is generally not congested in this area. Kenny Elementary School, a highly rated institution in the community, offers an exceptional educational environment for children.
- Life Experience: Kenny boasts a welcoming community atmosphere, a serene overall vibe, and a family-friendly environment, making it one of the best areas in Minneapolis for families and people seeking a more tranquil lifestyle.
Kenny Park offers a playground, a shallow pool, tennis courts, baseball fields, and other amenities for families. The community is near Grass Lake and Lake Harriet, which is a popular venue for summer concerts, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. While the community is characterized by tranquility, Kenny boasts various commercial, culinary, and recreational amenities. The Book Club Restaurant, located on the corner of 54th Street and Penn Avenue, offers meals and beverages throughout the day. The area also boasts popular wine-tasting venues like South Lyndale Liquor & Market. Near Lyndale Avenue, there are the Kowalski’s Markets grocery store, dry cleaning services, and the Washburn Library, which cater to the daily needs of residents. The Kingfield Farmer’s Market, operating from May to October, offers a chance for newcomers and travellers to experience local culture and purchase specialty items.
8. Lowry Hill
Hightlights: historic homes, tree-lined streets, & easy access to downtown.
- Median Home Prices: $386,595
- Average Rent: $1,152
- Crime rate: 98% higher than the national average.
- Infrastructure: Lowry Hill is on the west side of downtown Minneapolis, only 1.76 kilometers away. Encircled by I-394, I-94, and Hennepin Avenue and lying on numerous bus routes, Lowry Hill makes driving and accessing public transportation highly convenient. Basic service amenities such as banks and post offices are readily available. Although the community has no large hospital, Hennepin Healthcare is just a short drive away. Dunwoody College of Technology in Lowry Hill makes the area one of the best parts of Minneapolis for students.
- Life Experience: With its convenient transportation, proximity to downtown, art venues, beautiful environment, and convenient living facilities, Lowry Hill is regarded as one of the best areas of Minneapolis for art enthusiasts, students, and families.
Lowry Hill is close to everything the bustling city center offers. In addition, the neighborhood’s own dining and entertainment facilities are sufficient to meet the daily needs of its residents. The restaurants here offer styles ranging from classic American dishes to international cuisines. Popular dining spots include Mortimer’s Bar and Restaurant, Caffetto, and Bebe Zito Ice Cream & Burgers. In leisure time, residents can enjoy tranquil moments and natural beauty at parks and gardens such as Thomas Lowry Park, Mueller Park, Parade Stadium, and Parade Ice Garden. For art lovers, the Walker Art Center, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, and Groveland Gallery are all located here, providing opportunities to appreciate art.
9. Ventura Village
Hightlights: culturally diverse neighborhood, ethnic restaurants & shops.
- Median Home Prices: $161,500
- Average Rent: $1,052
- Crime rate: 174% higher than the national average.
- Infrastructure: Ventura Village is located on the south side of Minneapolis, offering convenient access to downtown Minneapolis and surrounding higher education institutions. Minneapolis Community and Technical College and the University of Minnesota Twin Cities are a mere 10-minute car ride away, making it the best neighborhood to live in Minneapolis for students.
- Life Experience: In addition to its proximity to downtown and universities, the relatively affordable rent and housing prices in Ventura Village are also why it is considered one of the popular neighborhoods in Minneapolis. The cost of living is relatively low here, but the quality of life has not been compromised. The food, entertainment activities, and shopping options — all contribute to residents feeling at home and enjoying their time in Ventura Village.
Ventura Village is one of the food paradises in Minneapolis, particularly known for its African and Middle Eastern cuisine. Popular restaurants include Habesha, Mercato, Adarra, La Taqueria, and Saffron. The Midtown Global Market features a variety of food stalls, as well as arts and crafts and souvenirs. Sweet Martha’s Cookie Company, a well-known cookie shop, is also located here. Residents of Ventura Village enjoy rich entertainment activities. The Ethnic Cultural Center frequently hosts cultural events and performances that showcase arts and traditions worldwide. The Ventura Village Festival is a grand cultural festival held annually in the summer, featuring music, dance, food, and handicrafts. For outdoor activities, the Midtown Greenway is a scenic bike path and walking trail with multiple parks and recreational facilities along the way. Ventura Village is no slouch when it comes to shopping, either. The Midtown Exchange is a commercial center integrating shopping, dining, and entertainment, while the Midtown Global Market features a variety of food stalls and handicraft stores.
10. Stevens Square-Loring Heights
Hightlights: a mix of housing options, close to downtown, & strong community feel.
- Median Home Prices: $99,000
- Average Rent: $1,020
- Crime rate: 247% higher than the national average.
- Infrastructure: Stevens Square-Loring Heights is near downtown. It is surrounded by major highways such as I-94 and I-35W and has well-developed public transportation, making it convenient for driving and commuting by public transit. The neighborhood’s robust infrastructure makes it one of the best neighborhoods in Minneapolis. There are several medical facilities nearby, including Hennepin Healthcare and various clinics and medical centers from Allina Health. Stevens Square-Loring Heights also boasts a wealth of educational resources, including public and private schools, such as Loring Elementary School (a primary school), Patrick Henry High School (a public high school), and George Stevens Academy (a private boarding high school).
- Life Experience: Stevens Square-Loring Heights is among the nicest neighborhoods in Minneapolis, especially for students and young professionals. Firstly, its proximity to downtown facilitates an easy commute for professionals, and its nearness to the University of Minnesota Twin Cities makes it convenient for students. Secondly, the relatively affordable rent comes with complete amenities and the rich cultural and entertainment life of the downtown area and the neighborhood.
“Eat Street” Nicollet Avenue is lined with popular restaurants, including Boola Ay, Akwaaba, Flavor Bee’s, Tibet Kitchen, and The Reverie. The neighborhood also has unique coffee shops like Boiler Room Coffee and venues like The Nicollet, which offer beer, wine, and cuisines. The Loring Park Farmers Market, open weekly, provides fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies. Supermarkets and pharmacies are readily available to meet daily needs. The entertainment options in Stevens Square-Loring Heights are diverse, encompassing arts and outdoor activities. The Stevens Square Center for the Arts is great for visiting art exhibitions and catching performances. Stevens Square Park and Loring Park offer ample space and facilities for outdoor activities. Stevens Square Park also hosts events like the Fall Harvest Festival, free movie screenings, music events, and the Red Hot Art Community Art Fair.
Minneapolis Neighborhood Map
Secure Your Home in One of the Best Neighborhoods in Minneapolis
Have you found the best area to live in Minneapolis? If the neighborhood is settled, it is time to find your home there.
Whether you are looking for a trustworthy private apartment or tailored student housing in Minneapolis, MN, USA, uhomes.com offers a comprehensive selection of properties designed to meet your unique needs. From personalized search experience and diverse property options to exceptional customer support and exclusive deals and discounts, we are your reliable ally in finding your retreat in Minneapolis.
Conclusion
The best neighborhoods in Minneapolis boast unique characters. In terms of home prices, Whittier, Loring Park, Ventura Village, and Stevens Square-Loring Heights offer more affordable options for those with a limited budget, while upscale Minneapolis neighborhoods such as Lowry Hill have higher property values, with luxury residences and high-quality life. Minneapolis neighborhoods, including Stevens Square-Loring Heights and Ventura Village (low rent prices), as well as Loring Park, are very popular for renters. Regarding safety, while some areas experience higher crime rates than the national average, residents of the nicest neighborhoods in Minneapolis generally report a safe living environment, with Kenny being the safest. For the location, the best places to live, such as North Loop, Uptown, and Downtown West, are in the heart of business, while Ventura Village and Lowry Hill have a peaceful natural environment and easy access to transportation. The best neighborhoods in Minneapolis, MN, are generally well-equipped with infrastructure, such as schools, restaurants, parks, and hospitals. Whether you prioritise convenience, quality education or a peaceful environment, the best neighborhoods in Minneapolis cater to every need.
FAQ
What are the Twin Cities?
Minneapolis and St. Paul Minnesota are collectively known as the Twin Cities due to the political, cultural and economic characteristics they share as neighbouring cities. The term is also used to refer to a metropolitan area that also includes the suburbs surrounding the two cities. This area has a strong economy, good schools, a high quality of life, and various housing options, including student housing, private apartments, and beautiful houses.
What is the safest neighborhood in Minneapolis?
Armatage, Linden Hills, and Kenny are generally considered safe Minneapolis neighborhoods due to their lower crime rates.
Armatage: Family-friendly with good schools, green spaces, community feel, and convenient amenities.
Linden Hills: Beautiful homes, tree-lined streets, parks, lakes, and vibrant local shops and restaurants.
Kenny: Diverse housing, nearby parks, easy access to highways and public transit.
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Minneapolis?
For a single person, $51,684 per year allows you to live comfortably; for a family of four, $93,482 provides a good buffer for additional expenses and savings. The cost of living in Minneapolis is affordable, 6.2% lower than the national average, which makes achieving a comfortable lifestyle less stressful.
