Are you considering a move to Minnesota? You need to learn about the state, including the good and bad, before you start packing your belongings and renting a moving truck.
In this guide, we will give you all the ins and outs so you can decide if you should call Minnesota home.
Minnesota Is a Beautiful State
They call Minnesota “The Land of 10,000 Lakes.” Some people think this number cannot possibly be true, and they are right. Minnesota actually has 11.842 lakes!
Minnesota became a state in 1858 and was the 32nd state in the Union. The length of Minnesota is just over 400 miles, and it is the 12th largest state in the US.
The name of the state comes from the Dakota Indian language and means “Sky-blue waters” or “Sky-tinted waters.” The state has a population of 5.5 million.
Pros and Cons of Living in Minnesota
Now that you know a little more about the state, it is time to discuss the pros and cons of living there. We hope these will supply you with the facts you need to decide if Minnesota is your next destination to put down roots.
Check out: Pros and cons of living in Washington, DC
Pro: Jobs Abound
One reason many people move to Minnesota is because of the job opportunities. Many Fortune 500 companies call Minnesota home, including Target, Xcel Energy, General Mills, and 3M Company.
The unemployment rate in the state remains at or below 3%, and job opportunities are available in almost every sector. If you are looking for work, Minnesota has you covered. Top industries in the state include:
- Healthcare
- Hospitality
- Financial services
Con: High Taxes
Regrettably, the state of Minnesota has a high tax burden. Minnesota has a progressive tax system, which means the more money you make, the higher your tax rate.
Income tax rates start at 5% and can go as high as 10% for higher earners.
Pro: Fun and Adventure
Minnesota is home to thousands of lakes, offering fun and exciting adventure during the warmer months and ice fishing in the cold.
The state is full of trees and plenty of sunshine. Some of the exciting adventures that await include the following.
- Cross-country skiing
- Camping
- Ice skating
- Rock climbing
- Water skiing
- Trail running
Pro: Quality Education
Whether you are concerned about yourself or your children, you can both receive a high-quality education in Minnesota. The following are some factors that make Minnesota’s educational system superior to some other states.
- Students in Minnesota have a high level of achievement.
- Minnesota has a well-funded library system.
- Minnesota schools consistently receive high marks for safety.
- The state is home to some of the top colleges and universities in the United States.
Con: Extreme Winters
Some people are ill-prepared for Minnesota winters. They are harsh, bitter, and freezing. Temperatures regularly drop to -10 degrees.
Snow begins in October and lasts through May. In the Southwest, snowfall totals around 36 inches a year. In the Snow Belt, 70 inches or more fall. If you hate snow, Minnesota may not be the state for you!
Con: Traffic Issues
If you live in rural areas of Minnesota, traffic issues will rarely arise. If you reside in the Twin Cities metro area, commutes can be lengthy, especially in the winter.
The Minneapolis and St. Paul areas are especially challenging to traverse. Although these areas are not as bad as the traffic in places like New York City and Washington DC., you can expect headaches over slow traffic crawls.
Pro: Housing
The housing market in Minnesota offers something for just about everyone. There are apartments, retirement homes, single-family homes, and condos.
Home prices are a little less than the national average. If you are looking for apartment living, check out the urban areas of Minnesota first. Rural areas are better for single-family homes.
Pro: Diversity
When people think about Minnesota, they do not consider the diversity of the state. Many are surprised to learn Minnesota has such diverse cultures. Many people living in the state are of European descent.
There is also a large population of Hmongs. In the Twin Cities, you will find the largest population of Somali Americans.
Minnesota is a state that embraces diversity and inclusion. People feel welcome here, and some communities are especially tight-knit.
Although there is great diversity in the urban areas, rural areas remain less diverse.
Pro: The Arts
If you love everything artistic, Minnesota may start calling your name. The state is home to many art museums and festivals. The following are some of the art festivals you can experience in the state.
- Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
- Guthrie Theater
- Art-A-Whirl
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
- Guthrie Theater
Minnesota is rich in art culture and will help you take your knowledge of it to the next level. Artistic freedom is alive and well in the state. You can become a part of it, with countless opportunities that let you embrace your artistic side.
Pro: Healthcare
Another pro in Minnesota is the healthcare system. Minnesota was ranked as one of the best states for overall healthcare in 2018.
Minnesota is third in the nation for healthcare based on affordability, superior care, and reliability. In an analysis carried out by Medicare Guide, Minnesota was ranked number one for senior care.
Quick Facts About Minnesota
Now that you know the pros and cons of living in the state, it is time to learn a few quick facts to further pique your interest.
- Minnesota’s nickname is “The North Star State.”
- The biggest city is Minneapolis.
- The state bird is the Common Loon.
- The state flower is the Pink and White Lady Slipper.
- Minnesota has 52 native tree species.
- The Mall of America is one of the top tourist locations in Minnesota.
Is Minnesota Right For You?
Minnesota is not for everyone, but many people love calling it home. If you have never visited the state, why not plan a trip and enjoy the sites, sounds, and experiences Minnesota has to offer?
Minnesota is an unforgettable place. Although winters are harsh, the pristine beauty of the falling snow beckons many to cozy up to the fire.
This state is full of diversity, acceptance, and inclusiveness. You will find the art scene full of vibrance and with benefits like wonderful healthcare and educational systems, why would anyone say no to living in Minnesota?