Moving to Minneapolis means you’re really relocating to two cities in one: Minneapolis and Saint Paul – the state capital. With only the Mississippi River separating them, the ‘Twin Cities’ form the centre of a large metropolitan area sprawling across the flat Minnesota countryside, making it an ideal base for business professionals and expat families alike.

Living in Minneapolis as an expat

The abundance of water in Minneapolis, combined with the city’s many parks, creates a beautiful blue-and-green patchwork landscape, connected by countless bike and walking paths. Besides plenty of greenery to enjoy, there is so much to see and do here. The city has a rich cultural life and a thriving music and theatre scene, as well as many excellent restaurants and a booming coffee shop culture.

As one of the largest cities in the Midwest, Minneapolis is an important economic centre in the US, with major industries including finance, commerce, transport and healthcare. Home to 17 Fortune 500 companies, including UnitedHealth Group and Target, the city attracts plenty of new residents and business professionals looking to advance their careers in the Twin Cities.

If you live closer to the city centre, you’ll have easy access to the expanding public transport network, which consists of buses, light rail and commuter rail. The system is growing rapidly, with new bus rapid transit lines launching in 2025, including connections from downtown to surrounding areas. 

If you live and work downtown, you can also use the Minneapolis Skyway System, which is a series of heated pedestrian bridges connecting 80 city blocks. There are many restaurants and shops along these passageways, making it much easier to get around the city during the chilly winters.

Lifestyle in Minneapolis 
Finding a Job in Working in Minneapolis 
Getting Around in Minneapolis

Cost of living in Minneapolis

The cost of living in Minneapolis is relatively affordable compared to many other major US cities, making it increasingly popular with professionals seeking value. While it is more budget-friendly than places like New York City, Dallas, and Philadelphia, expenses can still vary depending on your lifestyle and housing choices.

Suburban accommodation and utilities are generally well priced, and overall, the cost of living in Minneapolis is lower than in many other large metropolitan areas. This makes it an attractive option if you’re looking for a balance between affordability and quality of life.

Accommodation and Utilities in Minneapolis

Families and children in Minneapolis

Parents will be pleased to know that there is a wide selection of excellent public and private schools to choose from, with many neighbourhoods ranking highly for family-friendly amenities. The main campus of the University of Minnesota is also located here, along with a number of smaller colleges and universities. Most neighbourhoods in Minneapolis are well equipped with everything children might need, from recreational centres and community swimming pools to museums and libraries.

Public and Private Schools in Minneapolis 
Best Neighbourhoods in Minneapolis
Healthcare and Hospitals in Minneapolis

Climate in Minneapolis

The climate in Minneapolis is classified as continental, and the weather is characterised by harsh winters and moderate to hot summers. In winter, snowfall is abundant, and temperatures typically fall below freezing. Rainfall is a common occurrence throughout the year, but the wettest month of the year is June.

New arrivals in Minneapolis will notice a sense of community and pride among the residents. You should have no problem meeting people if you’re willing to participate in community activities. Minneapolis is known for its friendly inhabitants, and with the help of a bit of ‘Minnesota nice’, it should not take long for the Twin Cities to feel like home.

Working in Minneapolis offers excellent opportunities, as the city is an important business centre in the US Midwest. Once the world’s flour-milling and timber capital, Minneapolis today enjoys a diverse economy with no particular dominant industry.

The major sectors include finance, industry, healthcare, technology, education, government, food manufacturing, and retail. The creative economy, including theatre and the arts, also represents a significant industry in Minneapolis with hundreds of millions in economic impact.

Job market in Minneapolis

The job market in Minneapolis includes many big American and international companies that have headquarters or a substantial presence in the city, and Minneapolis is home to over 15 Fortune 500 companies, including UnitedHealth Group, Target, and 3M.

The typical Minnesotan wage is a few thousand dollars higher than the national average. Between this and the low cost of living in Minneapolis, you’ll likely be able to enjoy a comfortable life in the Twin Cities.

Finding a job in Minneapolis

Finding a job in Minneapolis is quite feasible. The city’s job market is solid, and unemployment rates are consistently below the national average. International arrivals may find it more difficult to break into the Minneapolis job market unless they move there with an employment contract in hand. Beyond having the right skills and experience, international professionals intending to work in Minneapolis need to ensure that they have the correct work permit for the USA.

If you’re looking for work in Minneapolis, get in touch with recruitment companies and scour online job portals like LinkedIn or Indeed.

Work Permits for the USA 
Visas and Residence Permits for the USA

Useful links

• LinkedIn Jobs Minneapolis
• Indeed Minneapolis Jobs

Work culture in Minneapolis

Like most of the United States, the work culture in Minneapolis largely disregards age and status. Instead, merit, experience, and past achievement are the vehicles for advancement.

American companies are egalitarian to an extent, but ultimately, big decisions and the proverbial buck stops with ‘the boss’. Although many meetings may be had, and much discussion may have taken place, senior managers may disregard the opinions of those in middle- and lower-level positions entirely, a particularly infuriating point if you come from a more consensus-oriented culture. Nonetheless, if you can express your views clearly and straightforwardly, you’ll find that you can command greater respect in Minnesotan business circles.

Business Culture in the USA

When it comes to accommodation in Minneapolis, there is plenty of choice for professionals relocating to one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the Midwest.

The city’s population growth has pushed up rental costs due to growing demand, but new developments continue to spring up throughout Minneapolis, giving prospective renters some excellent choices. Some landlords may even offer competitive rental rates to fill new buildings, so it’s worth shopping around for the best deal.

Neighbourhoods in Minneapolis

Your choice of neighbourhood will significantly impact both rental costs and your daily lifestyle. Minneapolis is home to everything from trendy warehouse lofts in the North Loop that put you steps from Target Field to family-friendly streets in Linden Hills, where you’re minutes from exceptional schools and lakeside parks.

Young professionals typically gravitate toward areas like Downtown West for easy access to the business district and light rail connections, or Northeast Minneapolis for its emerging arts scene and reasonable rental prices. Families often prioritise neighbourhoods like Fulton or the Bde Maka Ska area for space and excellent schools, whilst budget-conscious renters find solid value in areas like Powderhorn or Seward without sacrificing urban convenience.

Best (and Worst) Neighbourhoods in Minneapolis

Types of accommodation in Minneapolis

There is a variety of housing options in Minneapolis. Modern high-rise buildings offering apartments with full amenities are available in the city’s downtown areas. There are also several converted warehouses and industrial buildings that make for trendy loft apartments. In the surrounding suburbs, family homes range from large and spacious freestanding houses to neat and compact townhouses.

Generally, the closer you live to a lake or the river in Minneapolis, the more expensive the accommodation will be.

Finding accommodation in Minneapolis

The easiest way to find accommodation in Minneapolis is online. Popular property portals like Apartments.com, Zillow, RentCafe, and ApartmentList list current properties for rent and often include reviews from current and former tenants.

Social media groups, particularly Facebook communities for Minneapolis renters and neighbourhood-specific groups, can be goldmines for finding properties and getting insider tips from locals. You can also hire a real estate agent to do the legwork for you in scouting and arranging viewings for accommodation, although this will come at an additional cost. Some people moving to Minneapolis will be lucky enough to have a relocation company working on their behalf, who will assess their preferences and shortlist properties for them to view.

Useful links

• Apartments.com
• Zillow
• RentCafe
• ApartmentList

Renting property in Minneapolis

Making an application

Once you’ve found a suitable property, you’ll need to file an application via the agent or directly approach the landlord. An applicant-screening process follows, whereby certain reference and credit checks are carried out. It is usually expected that you have a combined income that is at least three times the cost of the rental rate.

Have your social security number and US bank account set up ahead of time to speed up this process. International applicants may find it helpful to provide additional documentation, such as employment letters or bank statements from their home country.

Leases

Leases are generally signed for a 12-month period, but it is possible to negotiate a shorter term or a month-to-month contract in some cases.

Deposits

A deposit of one month’s rent is usually required to secure the property and cover any damage to the property beyond normal wear and tear. Landlords are allowed to make reasonable deductions for any damages to the property, so ensure that a detailed inventory is carried out at the start and end of a tenancy agreement to avoid incurring unjust penalties.

Terminating the lease

Most leases require you to give 30 days’ written notice before moving out, although this can vary depending on your specific rental agreement. Month-to-month tenants typically need to provide one month’s notice. Breaking a lease early may result in penalties, so it’s worth discussing options with your landlord if you need to leave before your lease expires. Minneapolis tenant protection laws require landlords to make reasonable efforts to re-rent your unit if you break your lease early.

Useful links

• City Of Minneapolis: Renter Rights
• Minnesota Security Deposit Laws

Utilities in Minneapolis

It’s important to establish what utilities or services are included in your rental costs and who handles maintenance and repair responsibilities. Utilities are often something that you’re expected to arrange separately from your monthly rental fee. Minneapolis winters can be brutal, and heating bills will certainly spike during the coldest months. You should factor these seasonal costs into your budget and ensure your rental accommodation has adequate central heating before signing any lease.

Electricity and gas

Xcel Energy is the primary provider for both electricity and natural gas in Minneapolis, making it convenient to set up both services with one company. Depending on your specific location, you may have other options. CenterPoint Energy also provides natural gas to parts of the Minneapolis area, and Minnesota Energy Resources serves certain communities in the state.

In Minneapolis, natural gas is widely used for heating, cooking, and hot water, and it’s crucial for weathering Minnesota’s harsh winters. Winter utility bills can be particularly high due to heating needs, so factor this into your monthly budget planning. You’ll want to arrange a connection for both services before your move-in date to ensure heating and electricity are ready when you arrive.

Water

The City of Minneapolis provides water and sewer services directly to residents. You’ll receive a combined bill that includes both water usage and sewer charges. The city charges a base monthly fee plus usage fees based on consumption. Water service typically needs to be transferred into your name when you move, which can be done online or by phone through the city’s utility billing department.

Bins and recycling

The city of Minneapolis provides waste management services that include garbage collection, recycling, and organics recycling. You’ll pay a monthly base fee plus charges for additional services like extra garbage carts. The city provides different cart sizes to accommodate various household needs. You’re responsible for placing carts at the kerb on collection day and removing them by 7am the following morning to avoid fees.

Useful links

• Xcel Energy, CenterPoint Energy, Minnesota Energy Resources
• City Of Minneapolis: Utility Billing
• Minneapolis Garbage And Recycling Services

The best places to live in Minneapolis

Minneapolis neighbourhoods run the gamut from industrial lofts in converted warehouses to lakeside family enclaves with tree-lined streets. Your choice depends on whether you prioritise a five-minute walk to work, top-rated schools, or simply getting more space for your money.

The urban areas pack apartments and houses fairly close together, but the trade-off means easier access to Minneapolis’s excellent public transport network and short commutes to the central business districts. The outer suburbs typically offer better value and more space for gardens, although your daily commute into the city centre will stretch longer.

Below is an overview of some popular neighbourhoods throughout Minneapolis.

Young and trendy areas in Minneapolis

North Loop

Young professionals flock to the North Loop, Minneapolis’s most sought-after neighbourhood for career-focused residents. This former Warehouse District showcases converted industrial lofts, sleek high-rises, and contemporary condos that capture the perfect urban aesthetic.

Living here, you’ll find yourself steps away from Target Field, home to the Minnesota Twins and the Mississippi Riverfront walking trails. The area is abuzz with craft breweries, innovative restaurants, and art galleries. Property prices reflect the neighbourhood’s popularity, but the walkability score and 10-minute commutes to downtown business districts justify the investment for those who want an exciting urban lifestyle and can afford it.

Downtown West

Downtown West puts you in the thick of Minneapolis’s business district, where glass towers house law firms, banks, and corporate headquarters. High-rise living here means floor-to-ceiling windows, concierge services, and rent that’ll make your eyes water.

You can walk to work in a suit without breaking a sweat, then grab after-work drinks at rooftop bars with skyline views. The enclosed skyway system becomes your best friend during brutal Minnesota winters – you can travel 80 city blocks without stepping outside. Weekend evenings bring expense account crowds to steakhouses and cocktail lounges. It’s polished, convenient, and decidedly corporate.

Northeast

Artists, young families, and creative professionals have discovered Northeast Minneapolis as their perfect middle ground. New galleries and trendy restaurants have moved into this historic neighbourhood without erasing its authentic character.

Northeast’s tree-lined streets feature historic homes, converted artist lofts, and new residential developments. The dining scene ranges from authentic dive bars to award-winning craft breweries, all within cycling distance of the University of Minnesota. Property values here are reasonable compared to North Loop, making it attractive for first-time buyers.

University

The University neighbourhood pulses with student energy, especially around Dinkytown, where pizza joints stay open until 2am and dive bars host trivia nights. You’ll either love the constant buzz of 50,000 students or find it exhausting – there’s no middle ground.

Housing ranges from shared apartments to modern condos. You’ll have access to numerous parks, recreational facilities, and cultural events that extend beyond typical college offerings. Recent graduates often choose to stay here, connected to the academic atmosphere, whilst transitioning into professional careers.

Getting Around in Minneapolis 
Accommodation in Minneapolis 
Working in Minneapolis 

Budget-friendly areas in Minneapolis

Powderhorn

Powderhorn attracts young professionals who want character without breaking the bank. The neighbourhood’s Victorian houses and Craftsman bungalows cost roughly half what you’d pay in Linden Hills, although you’ll trade manicured lawns for a grittier, more authentic Minneapolis experience.

The area centres around Powderhorn Park, where summer brings outdoor concerts and the city’s best farmers market. The neighbourhood sits close to Eat Street (Nicollet Avenue), Minneapolis’s famous international dining corridor with authentic Somali, Mexican, and Vietnamese restaurants. The arts scene is thriving – murals cover building walls, and local galleries showcase emerging talent. Light rail connects you downtown in 20 minutes.

Seward

The Seward neighbourhood attracts professionals who want urban living without the premium price tag. You can rent a decent one-bedroom apartment or buy a modest Victorian-era home for significantly less than in trendier areas.

The neighbourhood has embraced its reputation as Minneapolis’s sustainability hub. Co-op grocery shops, community gardens, and the Midtown Greenway bike corridor define daily life here. The Blue Line light rail gets you Downtown in 15 minutes, making it popular with environmentally minded commuters who’ve ditched their cars.

Family life in Minneapolis

Linden Hills

Linden Hills offers the pinnacle of family life in Minneapolis, and it’s consistently rated one of the city’s premier neighbourhoods for raising children. Positioned between Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska (formerly named Calhoun Isles), this area feels like a small town whilst keeping you relatively close to downtown amenities.

The neighbourhood benefits from good local schools, whilst tree-lined streets invite family walks and cycling adventures. You’ll have access to numerous parks, playgrounds, and the historic Como-Harriet Streetcar Line. Housing ranges from charming period homes to contemporary family residences.

Bde Maka Ska (Calhoun Isles)

The Bde Maka Ska area is Minneapolis’s most affluent family-friendly option, built around stunning lakes that provide year-round recreational opportunities. This neighbourhood offers exceptional outdoor activities that keep active families engaged throughout the year.

Housing spans from grand Tudor-style homes to luxury penthouses, and property prices are among the city’s highest. The area has top-rated schools and strong community bonds. The neighbourhood’s residential streets are peaceful and child-friendly, and nearby Uptown provides convenient upscale shopping and dining. Lake access offers sailing, ice skating, and walking trails within minutes of your doorstep.

Fulton

Fulton feels like you’ve stumbled into a 1950s suburb, complete with wide streets, mature oak trees, and houses with actual front porches. It’s where Minneapolis families go when they want space but refuse to move to the suburbs.

The neighbourhood’s claim to fame is having some of the city’s largest lots – your children can actually play in the back garden without kicking a ball into the neighbour’s kitchen window. Fulton Elementary consistently ranks among the city’s top schools. You’ll find yourself 15 minutes from Downtown but a world away from urban chaos. The trade-off is that there’s limited nightlife and a serious shortage of trendy coffee shops.

Shopping And Entertainment in Minneapolis
Schools in Minneapolis

The healthcare system in Minneapolis ranks among the finest in the United States, with the city consistently recognised as one of the healthiest in the country. Multiple hospitals here earn top national rankings year after year, making it straightforward for newcomers to access excellent medical care when they need it.

The Twin Cities metropolitan area is home to numerous major hospitals, alongside many smaller clinics and specialist medical centres. Pharmacies operate extensively throughout Minneapolis, with many providing round-the-clock service for your convenience.

If you’re moving to Minneapolis, securing thorough health insurance coverage becomes your gateway to the city’s premier medical facilities and specialist care.

Read more: Understanding Health Insurance in the USA

Hospitals in Minneapolis

Abbott Northwestern Hospital

Website: www.allinahealth.org
Address: 800 East 28th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55407

Children’s Minnesota Minneapolis Hospital

Website: www.childrensmn.org
Address: 2525 Chicago Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55404

East Bank Hospital – University of Minnesota Medical Center

Website: www.mhealth.org
Address: 500 Harvard Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455

Minneapolis VA Health Care System

Website: www.minneapolis.va.gov
Address: 1 Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417

M Health Fairview Masonic Children’s Hospital

Website: www.mhealth.org
Address: 2450 Riverside Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55454

Gillette Children’s Hospital and Clinics

Website: www.gillettechildrens.org
Address: 640 Jackson Street, Saint Paul, MN 55101

When it comes to education and schools in Minneapolis, you’ll have plenty of choices, although the school system comes with challenges. There are some good public schools in the city, the best of which are often charter or magnet schools. A number of private schools are also available.

As with the rest of the US, the Minnesota education system is divided into three levels:

• Elementary school – Kindergarten to Grade 5
• Middle school – Grade 6 to Grade 8
• High school – Grade 9 to Grade 12

Education and Schools in the USA 

Public schools in Minneapolis

Public schools in Minneapolis are free to all children living in the city, and most students in Minneapolis attend these institutions. Children attending public school will usually attend the nearest school within their designated attendance area. They are permitted to attend a school outside their school district, provided there is space at that particular school.

Charter schools

Charter schools in Minneapolis are independent public schools operating on performance-based contracts with the local school district. While they are partially funded by the state, they have more flexibility in terms of their teaching style, policies and academic programmes. No fees are charged for charter schools, and admission is open to all children, provided there are available slots. If the demand for placements is greater than the school’s capacity, admission is determined via lottery.

Magnet schools

Magnet schools in Minneapolis are state-funded institutions that focus on specialised areas such as science, languages or the arts. MPS uses a lottery system for magnet school placement, with the enrolment season typically beginning in November and applications due by late January. In most magnet schools, attendance is determined by lottery, except where a certain level of ability must be demonstrated for admittance, such as in the case of music schools. Families planning a move to Minneapolis should note these enrolment deadlines when timing their relocation.

Useful links

• Minneapolis Public Schools
• Minnesota Department Of Education

Private and international schools in Minneapolis

Private schools in Minneapolis operate outside the public schooling system, with many offering a high standard of education. Class sizes are usually much smaller at private schools, affording more personalised interaction between students and teachers.

Admission to private schools can be more stringent and may include entrance exams and personal interviews. Competition for places at private schools can be high, so you need to plan well ahead if you intend to send your child to one of these institutions. Starting the application process at least a year in advance is recommended for the most sought-after schools.

There are few international schools in Minneapolis offering foreign curricula, but several public and private schools in the Twin Cities area offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme. This globally focused curriculum is often preferred by expat parents because there are IB schools in most major destinations around the world, allowing for a relatively easy transfer between schools.

Special educational needs in Minneapolis

The Minnesota Department of Education supports children with special educational needs in Minneapolis. There is an Individualised Education Programme (IEP) Team that assesses students to determine the level of support they require. Where possible, disabled students are accommodated in mainstream public schooling, and those whose disabilities are too severe for mainstream classrooms are accommodated in specialist facilities.

There are a variety of specialised schooling options in Minnesota that cater for a spectrum of unique needs, learning difficulties or various developmental, emotional and behavioural issues. While some of these schools are publicly funded charter schools, others are tuition-based private schools.

Useful links

• Minnesota Special Education: State Department Resources
• Parent Advocacy Coalition For Educational Rights (PACER) Center
• The Arc Minnesota: Disability Advocacy And Support

Tutors in Minneapolis

Tutors in Minneapolis can be a great solution whether your child needs to catch up in a particular subject or requires some help in preparing for their SAT exams. The additional support provided by private tutors allows students to address any gaps in their knowledge, progress in a certain subject area, or simply build confidence in a new environment. This can be particularly valuable for children adjusting to American curriculum standards after an international move.

The best place to start the search for a good private tutor is by asking around at your child’s school or talking to other parents. The alternative would be to use an established tutoring service. The Twin Cities area has numerous reputable tutoring companies serving all kinds of families with diverse academic needs.

Useful links

• Varsity Tutors
• Wyzant

Minneapolis is a quiet and peaceful city that is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, thriving arts and theatre scene, and abundant outdoor parks and lakes.

If you’re moving to Minneapolis, you might be concerned about enduring the city’s harsh winters that bring below-freezing temperatures and several feet of snow, but this has not stopped residents from enjoying life in the Twin Cities to the full. The city’s excellent public transport system, including light rail connections to the airport and neighbouring St Paul, makes getting around straightforward year-round.

Getting Around in Minneapolis

Shopping in Minneapolis

Minneapolis is famous for its shopping options as the birthplace of Target and home to the largest mall in the US, the Mall of America. This mall is located in the suburb of Bloomington and houses more than 520 shops, 60 restaurants, an indoor theme park, and the Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, so there is plenty to keep the whole family occupied.

For a unique experience, you can head for the independent boutiques and international fashion brands at Nicollet Mall, a pedestrian shopping avenue in downtown Minneapolis. Edina is another popular shopping neighbourhood, home to the 50th & France shopping district, which is packed with independent shops.

Eating out, nightlife and entertainment in Minneapolis

When it comes to eating out in Minneapolis, you’ll find cuisine to suit every taste and budget. The city is multicultural, and this is reflected in its dining options. From traditional and ethnic to international cuisine, including Mexican, Italian, African, and Asian, you’ll find a restaurant to satisfy your palate. The most diverse cuisine in Minneapolis can be found in the aptly named Eat Street, an area with a wide array of restaurants.

Minneapolis has a thriving nightlife, along with exciting performing arts and live music scenes. The Warehouse District is the heart of Minneapolis’ nightlife scene. Trendy nightclubs, eateries and bars offer you a range of entertainment options here. The Downtown area also has plenty of options if you’re looking for a night out.

If you’re a theatre lover, you’re in for a treat in Minneapolis. The city is renowned for having one of the best theatre scenes in the US outside of New York, and a number of touring Broadway shows and major musical acts have graced stages in Minneapolis.

Sports and outdoor activities in Minneapolis

Sports and outdoor activities in Minneapolis provide year-round entertainment despite the harsh winters. Minneapolis residents are known to enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle. Straddling the Mississippi River and home to many lakes, the city provides active residents with abundant opportunities for water sports in the summer, and in winter, opportunities for skiing and ice skating.

With Minneapolis and St Paul rated among the top US cities for their park systems, you’ll have plenty of room to enjoy walking, hiking, jogging, and cycling. If you’re less active, you can indulge in a picnic or just relax in the shade of the trees during the summer.

Sports fans can catch the Minnesota Twins at Target Field in Downtown Minneapolis or head to US Bank Stadium for Minnesota Vikings games. The Minnesota Timberwolves play basketball at Target Center, also located downtown, and all three venues are easily accessible via public transport.

See and do in Minneapolis

If you’re moving to Minneapolis, you’ll find plenty to see and do in the Twin Cities area. Whether hiking or biking in the great outdoors or indulging in a bit of culture at an art gallery or theatre, the wide range of attractions in Minneapolis will suit new arrivals of all backgrounds. Parents will be pleased to know that there are many child-friendly activities on offer in the city too.

Below is a list of some of the most popular attractions in Minneapolis.

Fort Snelling State Park

Located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers, this well-loved park combines history with outdoor recreation. The park gets its name from the fort on its grounds, which dates back to the 1820s. You can tour the fort and learn about the area’s fascinating history.

Minnehaha Regional Park

This sprawling park full of limestone bluffs and rivers lies halfway between the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul. It is particularly popular during the summer months when you can catch a concert by the bandstand, enjoy a picnic while watching the 53-foot (16m) waterfall or simply take a relaxing walk along one of the trails.

Minneapolis Institute of Art

The Minneapolis Institute of Art has around 90,000 works that span over 5,000 years of history. Popular exhibits include the contemporary gallery and the Asian art collection. Works by renowned artists such as Édouard Manet, Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin are also on display.

Minneapolis Theatre District

Three of the city’s most prominent theatres – the Pantages, State, and Orpheum Theatres – are all located within a block of each other in downtown Minneapolis. All three have a variety of offerings sure to delight any theatre buff, from plays and musical theatre to comedians and internationally famous musicians.

Minneapolis Sculpture Garden

A visit to this free art park in downtown Minneapolis is a must for anyone new to the city. The garden is home to more than 40 outdoor works of art, including the Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture that has become a Minneapolis icon.

Minnesota Children’s Museum

This is a great place to take kids in Minnesota. Each of the museum’s varied exhibits, spread out over three floors, is geared towards allowing young people to have an interactive experience. Highlights include the laser maze, giant slide, pretend town and makerspace.

Meeting people and making friends in Minneapolis

Meeting people and making friends in Minneapolis is straightforward, thanks to the city’s welcoming community and active social scene. The city’s numerous volunteer opportunities through local organisations provide excellent ways to meet like-minded people while contributing to the community. Minneapolis residents are known for their civic engagement, making volunteering a natural pathway to friendships.

The Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce hosts regular business mixers, luncheons, and workshops for professional networking. Young Professionals of Minneapolis offers regular networking events, panel discussions, and social mixers for career development and connections. For newcomers specifically, the Newcomers Club of the Southwest Suburbs provides monthly meetings and special interest groups designed to help you settle into the community.

Useful links

• Young Professionals of Minneapolis
• Newcomers Club of the Southwest Suburbs
• Mini Meetup Minneapolis
• Minneapolis Meetup Groups

Getting around in Minneapolis is efficient and simple, with an efficient bus system and new light rail, but it is still limited for those living outside the city centre. If you plan to live on the city’s outskirts, you’ll most likely need a car. Public transport in Minneapolis is managed by Metro Transit, which maintains an integrated network of buses, light rail and commuter trains.

Public transport in Minneapolis

Buses

Metro Transit operates an extensive network of buses in Minneapolis, St Paul and the Twin Cities metro area. You can pay for your ticket with cash as you board the bus, but change is unavailable, so you’ll need the exact amount. If you travel frequently, you should get a Go-To Card as it’s much more convenient than paying cash.

Light rail

Minneapolis also has a light rail system run by Metro Transit. Although it is generally fast and efficient, it isn’t as extensive as the bus network. There are currently two lines: the Blue Line and the Green Line.

Commuter rail

The Northstar commuter railway line connects Downtown Minneapolis with Big Lake. Tickets for the Northstar Line are available from ticket machines at each station and must be purchased before boarding.

Useful links

• Metro Transit Official Website
• Northstar Commuter Rail

Taxis in Minneapolis

Taxis can be hailed off the street in downtown Minneapolis or booked in advance. When travelling from the suburbs, for instance, you’d have to order a taxi. Taxi fares are fairly reasonable, and you can even save some money in comparison to driving a car, especially when considering the significant parking and maintenance costs associated with owning a vehicle in the city.

Ride-hailing apps Uber and Lyft operate throughout Minneapolis after resolving some recent regulatory disputes over driver pay. Both services are widely available for convenient door-to-door transport.

Useful links

• Blue And White Taxi
• Yellow Cab Minnesota
• Uber
• Lyft
• City of Minneapolis: Rideshare And Taxi Information

Driving in Minneapolis

Although Minneapolis has a sufficient inner-city transport network, if you live farther out, you’ll probably find it necessary to have a car.

The Twin Cities is known for having some of the most polite drivers in the US, so you needn’t worry about being the target of road rage or reckless driving. Road conditions in Minnesota can be hazardous during winter due to snow and ice.

Driver’s licences

If you’re moving to Minneapolis, you’ll need to get a Minnesota driver’s licence within 60 days of relocating. New residents with valid US out-of-state licences don’t need to take the written test – you can convert directly. Foreign licence holders from Canada can also transfer without testing, whilst those from Germany and Taiwan have special conversion options. Drivers from all other countries will need to pass both written and practical tests to obtain a Minnesota licence.

Transport, Driving and Driver’s Licences in the USA

Useful links

• Minnesota Driver’s License Portal

Walking in Minneapolis

Minneapolis, particularly the city centre, is a compact and remarkably walkable city. The Minneapolis Skyway system connects over 80 city blocks across more than 11 miles (18km) of downtown through enclosed, climate-controlled pedestrian walkways. The Skyway network allows you to move easily between buildings, car parks and over streets without facing harsh winter conditions.

Cycling in Minneapolis

Minneapolis consistently ranks as America’s top large city for cycling, with an extensive network of on-street protected bike lanes and off-street bikeways spanning over 200 miles (320km) throughout the city. The city earned this recognition thanks to safety initiatives and bike infrastructure investments that make cycling both practical and enjoyable year-round.

Useful links

• Minneapolis Bicycling Information