Your 2024 Guide to Renting Apartments in Minneapolis

In recent years, Minnesota’s Minneapolis has strengthened its status as one of the most popular destinations for renters in all of the Midwest. Minneapolis is one of the leading metro areas in the region, with a cost of living that’s lower than many other cities of its size and a high standard of living. In fact, the cost of living in Minneapolis runs 2% lower than the national average, with housing costs also below the national benchmark.

If you’re on the hunt for apartments in Minneapolis, this 2024 guide will help you explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods with plenty of amenities, job opportunities, healthcare, public transit and an array of rental options.

Searching for apartments in Minneapolis? Here’s how much it costs to live here

The cost of goods, services, and housing comes in under national levels, which allows renters to stretch their dollars further in the city. More precisely, the cost of living in Minneapolis trends 2% below the U.S. average, while housing prices run 9% lower. Groceries, utilities and transportation also track close to or below national figures for added everyday savings. That said, the more affordable cost of living empowers Minneapolis renters to enjoy comfortable lifestyles complete with more options for recreation, entertainment and dining.

What are the top neighborhoods for apartments in Minneapolis?

Minneapolis has an exciting array of thriving neighborhoods, each with its unique vibe, that cater to a wide range of preferences. If you’re searching for apartments in Minneapolis, our curated list below has you covered. We’ve handpicked districts that perfectly suit all sorts of tastes and lifestyles — from quiet urban living to a vibrant college town feel:

• Uptown
• North Loop
• Linden Hills
• Louis Park
• Northeast
• Marcy-Holmes

In neighborhoods like Uptown you’ll find yourself in the midst of trendy, walkable areas near stunning Lake Calhoun. You’ll find that most housing options here comprise apartments and condos. Venture just northeast, and you’ll enter the creative Arts District, where lofts, duplexes and all kinds of unique rentals coexist with galleries, indie shops and microbreweries.

The revitalized downtown area is another prime spot for those searching for apartments in Minneapolis. Here, renters can choose from lofts and high rises in the buzzing North Loop, located near the riverfront and loaded with shopping, arts and dining just steps outside your building. If you’re looking for more serene residential communities near nature, you might want to check the Linden Hills and St. Louis Park neighborhoods. Located just a short car drive from downtown, these areas offer a mix of houses, low-rise condos and apartments, all set in family-friendly, suburban-like settings close to nature.

Northeast Minneapolis has an artsy, hipster vibe with numerous galleries, performance venues, and locally owned shops and eateries. This is a haven for renters who enjoy exploring by foot or by bike, thanks to its pedestrian-friendly streets and ample bike paths. The neighborhood invites leisurely strolls or rides to an array of cafes, breweries, and the bustling Central Avenue commercial district.

Meanwhile, the Marcy-Holmes neighborhood has a vibrant atmosphere, as it’s located near the University of Minnesota campus. This area is a favorite among students and young professionals who frequent its cozy coffee shops and ethnic restaurants and browse the used book and record stores. Here as well, renters benefit from the neighborhood’s walkability and bike lanes to get around.

What about job opportunities in Minneapolis?

If you’re searching for apartments in Minneapolis, you might already be familiar with the city’s diverse economy and bustling academic environment. Major corporations provide plenty of jobs for thousands of locals, as Minneapolis is home to about two dozen Fortune 500 companies. Top employers like Target, Best Buy, U.S. Bank and Ameriprise Financial run large headquarters and campuses in the metro.

Additionally, Minneapolis is a hub for the medical, bio science and technology sectors. Leading medical centers like the Mayo Clinic and UnitedHealth Group base large operations in and around the city alongside emerging healthtech companies. The University of Minnesota further boosts business, research and medical industries.

How is commuting in Minneapolis?

Public transportation facilitates commuting to job hubs all over Minneapolis. The Metro Transit network of bus and light rail lines run across the city with abundant and convenient access for renters. The light rail connects downtown Minneapolis with the airport, Mall of America and surrounding suburbs in 20-30 minutes. The bus rapid transit lines also offer fast and frequent service across the city.

For non-transit commutes, Minneapolis has average commute times around 25 minutes by car and 40 minutes of transport overall — similar to other mid-sized metro areas. If you prefer to bike, take advantage of the city’s extensive biking infrastructure and trails to bike to your workplace. With quick and easy commutes, you can explore the amenities and opportunities around the Twin Cities metro.

Why consider apartments in Minneapolis when looking for your next rental?

With employment, recreation and culture thriving — alongside an affordable cost of living — Minneapolis is a great spot for renters in 2024. The city strikes an alluring balance of urban perks and Midwestern hospitality, so don’t miss the chance to join this welcoming, opportunity-filled community!