×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - Expats - Moving Abroad - International Living - International Jobs - Expatriate
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Expat Exchange > Minnesota

Minnesota

  Beaches  

Minnesota, known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," is a state in the Upper Midwest region of the United States. It is the 12th largest state by area and the 22nd most populous, with a diverse geography that includes vast forests, numerous lakes, and rolling prairies. The state's climate is characterized by cold winters and warm summers. Minnesota's economy is well-rounded, with significant contributions from industry, agriculture, and services. The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul serve as the cultural and economic hub of the state, with a vibrant arts scene, numerous corporate headquarters, and a strong emphasis on education and healthcare. Outside the metropolitan area, the state's economy is driven by agriculture, with corn, soybeans, and wheat as major crops, as well as dairy and livestock production. Minnesota is also known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, hunting, and boating, which are facilitated by its many lakes and state parks. The state has a rich cultural heritage with significant influences from its Native American and European immigrant populations. Annual events such as the Minnesota State Fair and the Saint Paul Winter Carnival attract visitors from all over. Education is highly valued, with a strong network of public universities and colleges, as well as private institutions. Minnesota's political climate is known for its civic engagement and high voter turnout, with a history of progressive policies and a tendency toward political moderation.

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Minnesota is generally considered moderate, with housing, healthcare, and transportation costs aligning with the national average. Some urban areas, particularly in and around the Twin Cities, may have higher living expenses compared to rural areas.

Weather

Minnesota experiences a continental climate, characterized by cold winters with snowfall and warm, humid summers. Spring and fall are transitional seasons with moderate temperatures and varying weather patterns. The state is known for its extreme temperature differences between summer and winter.

Educational System Minnesota

The educational system in Minnesota is known for its high quality and is structured similarly to the rest of the United States. Education is compulsory for children from ages 7 to 17. The system is divided into three main levels: elementary school (kindergarten through 5th grade), middle school (6th through 8th grade), and high school (9th through 12th grade). Children typically start kindergarten at the age of 5 or 6 and graduate from high school at around 18 years old. Minnesota offers a mix of public, charter, private, and home schooling options, with public schools being free to all residents. The state has a strong emphasis on early education, and many districts offer pre-kindergarten programs. Minnesota's Department of Education sets the educational standards and assessments, and the state consistently ranks well in national assessments of reading and math skills. High school students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement (AP) courses and International Baccalaureate (IB) programs, which can earn them college credits. Additionally, Minnesota has a Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) program that allows high school students to take college courses for credit, often at no cost to the student. The state also supports English Language Learner (ELL) programs to assist students from non-English-speaking backgrounds.

Best Places to Live in Minnesota
Discover the top-ranked towns in Minnesota. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.
Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.
Connect with Our Partners
Connect with our trusted local partners in Minnesota and around the world through our Partner Connect tool. From moving companies to expat health insurance and more, our partners are here to help.
Universal Tax Professionals iVisa.com  PassportCard Expat Health Insurance Traveling Mailbox SJB Global GeoBlue Cigna Global Health William Russell The Relocator AGS Worldwide Movers

Copyright 1997-2025 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides