Whether you’re a Minnesota native or only know the state as a snowy frost-land filled with extremely nice people, there are countless reasons why attending college in the Twin Cities might be the perfect fit for you. Check out our list to discover how much you truly know about living in the neighboring metropolises of Minneapolis and St. Paul.
1. You won’t break the bank.
Despite the appeal of New York or Los Angeles glamour, the big-city cost of living may stretch your budget. Minneapolis and St. Paul, on the other hand, offer the best of both worlds. The Twin Cities boast plenty of their own iconic attractions at a relatively low cost, even when paired against comparative cities like Boston and Seattle. In fact, U.S. News and World Report says Twin Cities residents dedicate a mere 21.5% of their household income to housing expenses, far below the national average of 33%.
2. Jobs, internships, and Fortune 500 companies, oh my.
Seventeen Fortune 500 companies, including UnitedHealth Group, Target, and 3M, call the Twin Cities home. Add to this the fact that Minneapolis has a consistently low unemployment rate among major U.S. cities, and you’ll find the Twin Cities an ideal location to land incredible internship and job opportunities both as a college student and after graduation.
3. You’ll discover a vibrant creative community.
There’s no shortage of artistic outlets and experiences. Examine art classics at the Minneapolis Institute of Art or stroll through the famed sculpture garden at the Walker Art Center. Take in a show at the Guthrie Theater, experience a concert at the legendary First Avenue, or plan a trip documenting the numerous public murals scattered throughout the cities.
4. The food is amazing.
Sure, in college, you’ll want quality on-campus dining. But the off-campus dining scene is important, too! Do a quick search for restaurants in the Twin Cities, and you’ll find everything from elite eateries serving freshly-caught walleye to food truck festivals to niche diners catering to the changing tastes of an increasingly diverse community. There’s always more to discover, whether you’re in the mood for gourmet cuisine, a classic Midwest hotdish, or an artisanal coffee.
5. It’s a little chilly… but that’s all.
Yes, Minnesota winters are cold and snowy. But a mid-January deep freeze is just about as rough as it gets. In a comfortably landlocked northern Midwest state, you can put to rest any concerns about hurricanes, earthquakes, or wildfires. Besides, the snow doesn’t stick around forever, and there is plenty of time to soak in the sunshine throughout the rest of the year.
6. Find adventure in the great outdoors.
While you’re soaking in all those sights, you may try kayaking, exploring a new hiking trail, or jogging around one of our 10,000 lakes. Parks, trails, and scenic outdoor attractions cover the entire state. And we should also mention that the park systems in St. Paul and Minneapolis consistently rank as some of the best in the nation! Even when winter rolls around, the activity doesn’t slow down. Stop by the ski slopes, strap on your hockey skates at a nearby rink, or settle in on a frozen lake for some old-fashioned ice fishing.
7. Live healthy. Live happy.
When it comes to health and well-being, the Twin Cities have got it down. Repeatedly ranking in the top healthiest places to live in the United States, Minneapolis and St. Paul boast highly active communities that take full advantage of the cities’ gorgeous parks, walking paths, water access points, and bike-friendly city planning. According to CBS News, Minneapolis comes in as the second-fittest city in the country, and Minnesota in general ends up as the third best state for healthcare.
Bonus: There’s a community of Royals waiting for YOU!
We’re a little biased—but we would be remiss if we didn’t mention that Bethel‘s campus is nestled among woods and water, just 15 minutes from downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. We love where we live, and we think you might, too! Schedule a visit if you’d like us to show you around.
But regardless—wherever you attend college, it’s important to consider all the qualities that matter to you. For the next few years, college will be the place you live, work, and build your community. As you evaluate your college options, be sure to include location in your criteria. Who knows, the Twin Cities might be just the place you’ve been searching for!
Looking for creative ways to spend your free time in the Land of 10,000 Lakes? Check out our post for 26 Must-See Destinations in the Twin Cities.
