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Living in Minnesota: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Minnesota | Expat Exchange
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Living in Minnesota

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 20, 2023

Summary: People often describe life in Minnesota as peaceful, friendly, and full of natural beauty. People love the four distinct seasons, the abundance of outdoor activities, and the strong sense of community. The cost of living in Minnesota is slightly higher than the national average, but still relatively affordable. The approximate population of Minnesota is 5.6 million, and the largest cities are Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, Duluth, and Bloomington. The cons of living in Minnesota include the cold winters, the high cost of living in some areas, and the lack of diversity in some areas.

William Russell
William Russell

Is the cost of living in Minnesota high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Minnesota, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Minnesota is generally higher than the US average. According to recent surveys, a nice 1 bedroom apartment costs around $1,000 per month while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $1,160 per month. The average costs of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant is about $15 to $20 per person," commented one expat who moved to Minnesota.

What type of recreational facilities are in Minnesota?

When we asked people living in Minnesota about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"Minnesota offers a variety of recreational facilities for its residents to enjoy. From outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and camping to indoor activities like bowling, ice skating, and rock climbing, there is something for everyone. Residents can also take advantage of the many lakes and rivers for fishing, boating, and swimming. Minnesota also has a number of parks and trails for walking, running, and bird watching. For those looking for a more urban experience, there are plenty of museums, theaters, and other cultural attractions to explore," remarked one expat in Minnesota.

What is the weather like in Minnesota?

"The weather in Minnesota can vary greatly depending on the season. In the summer, temperatures can range from warm and humid to cool and pleasant. In the winter, temperatures can drop below freezing and snowfall is common. Spring and fall are usually mild with some rain and occasional snow," said one expat.

Are there good restaurants in Minnesota?

"One of Minnesota's favorite restaurants is Hell's Kitchen, located in Minneapolis. It is a lively restaurant that serves up classic American dishes with a twist. The menu features a variety of dishes, from burgers and sandwiches to steaks and seafood. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The restaurant also offers a full bar and a great selection of craft beers. https://www.hellskitcheninc.com/ Another popular restaurant in Minnesota is The Bachelor Farmer, located in Minneapolis. This restaurant is known for its modern Scandinavian cuisine, which is inspired by the region's rich culinary heritage. The menu features a variety of dishes, from small plates to entrees, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting. The restaurant also offers a full bar and a great selection of wines. https://thebachelorfarmer.com/ Finally, The Strip Club Meat & Fish is a favorite restaurant in St. Paul. This restaurant is known for its steak and seafood dishes, which are cooked to perfection. The menu features a variety of dishes, from steaks and chops to seafood and salads. The atmosphere is upscale and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. The restaurant also offers a full bar and a great selection of craft beers. https://www.thestripclubmn.com/," remarked one expat living in Minnesota.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Minnesota?

"People living in Minnesota typically buy groceries at local supermarkets, such as Cub Foods, Target, and Aldi. Other shopping can be done at malls, such as the Mall of America, or at local stores and boutiques. Online shopping is also popular in Minnesota, with many people using Amazon, Walmart, and other online retailers to purchase items," remarked one expat living in Minnesota.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Minnesota?

"To apply for a visa to Minnesota, foreign nationals must submit an application to the United States Department of State and United States Customs and Border Protection. This application should include proof of citizenship, passport photographs, evidence of competence and financial stability, and all other security measures requested by the United States government. To apply for residency in Minnesota, foreign nationals must submit a Form I-485, the application for Adjustment of Status, to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This application must include proof of identity, documentation of any prior contact with immigration officers, proof of financial stability, evidence of employment, criminal records, and a letter of intent. Once this application is approved, a foreign national can apply for a permanent resident card (Green Card)," remarked one expat in Minnesota.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Minnesota?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Minnesota can be expensive. The cost of health insurance premiums can vary depending on the type of plan and the provider. Healthcare services can also be costly, with some services requiring a co-pay or deductible. Additionally, some services may not be covered by insurance, resulting in out-of-pocket costs," mentioned one expat inMinnesota.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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William Russell
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