Looking to relocate for a change of pace, (relative-to-New-York) affordability, and proximity to family friends. I’ve started to read about all the neighborhoods but I’m feeling overwhelmed. We want to plan a trip to explore, but I want to have a short list. I would really appreciate a push in the right direction. We plan to rent for a year or so while we get to know the city, so the stakes aren’t as high as buying a house.
About us:
- we’re 36 and 37 y/o
- No kids or plans for kids
- we do have a very social dog
- I work remotely and my husband would find a job after we relocate, so commuting isn’t necessarily an issue
- I don’t drive (my husband does), so I would like good public transportation coverage. That would allow me to be more independent. Or, being central enough that Lyft/Uber/ etc is not too outrageous would work.
- We’d like to have at least a couple bars and/or restaurants within walking distance
- relatively diverse neighborhood is a plus
- not a dealbreaker, but I’m disabled and chronically ill so I have a million doctor appointments all the time. If there’s a neighborhood that fits all of the above AND is near top-notch medical facilities, that would be great to know.
- also open to St. Paul, but will ask on that specific subreddit for neighborhoods there.
So far I’m looking at North Loop, Loring Park, Northeast, Uptown, Whittier-Lyndale, and Phillips.
Any of those scream “bad for your needs?” Or are there neighborhoods I should add to our list?
Thank you so much for your time!
Not Phillips
Check out the new Highland Bridge developments in St. Paul. Not sure on the cost, but nicely transit oriented and near a ton of stuff necessary to satisfy your day-to-day needs.
Looks beautiful - thank you!
No to highland. I was in NYC for 15 years before Minneapolis. From what I read in your post North Loop might hit home (ish). I would suggest also looking into St. Anthony Main (around Kramarczuk's -- look it up). If you have specific NYC cross streets you want to "mimic" the feel of in the Twin Cities, hit me up and I can tell you what is closest. Close is the key word. Nothing will match.
Ah I wish this person hadn’t deleted their account! I would love somewhere that feels as much like Clinton Hill in Brooklyn as possible. Lots of great bars and restaurants, historic, very walkable, etc
I’m also mid 30s and moving from NYC right now. I’m focused on North Loop personally for many of the same reasons you outlined (although I can’t speak to the proximity of medical facilities). Feel free to DM if you’d like to compare notes!
The part of Ne I've called downtown NE is very much what you're looking for central and hennepin run out from downtown into ne. Pick any spot in Ne up till the cross answer you're exactly there. Bars are all 2am bars, more arts than st Paul usually imho
The answer to these questions is always greater uptown.
Just moved from Park Slope Brooklyn to Uptown Minneapolis and I’m happy so far. I have proximity to both downtown Mpls and to the chain of lakes. Highly walkable area; haven’t bought a car yet and feel fine about that decision, although I do plan to drive at some point down the line. Hennepin Ave just opened back up after two years of construction and the neighborhood feels vibrant, in spite of the naysayers whispering that Uptown is “not what it used to be.” Lots of restaurant options nearby, boutiques, small businesses, and general good vibes. Good luck with your move!
Thank you! How have you found the NY to MPLS change to be?
It’s an adjustment: Minneapolis feels quiet in comparison. People are chattier on a surface level (in places of business, etc.) Fashion is more relaxed. Public transportation to areas further out is spotty and that’s where it feels like a car would be a temptation. Life is also easier in some ways. I can afford to buy a home here in a desirable urban neighborhood that has actual space and a yard—that was a main draw. My nervous system feels less on edge. The winters are harsher, but having been here in the summers I know that summers tend to be far more pleasant then steamy, often-stinky NYC 😌
real-talk, visiting many times in the summer while escaping stinky NYC has been a deciding factor for us 😂. That and what you mentioned about being able to afford a home. I thought home ownership was a pipe dream for us, but having looked at twin cities real estate, it looks like it could be possible for us.
IYKYK haha Yes! No lawyers are required to sign real estate contracts here in MN. Our agent was soooooo chill as well, yet extremely professional. It felt like a uniquely MN vibe 💫
Forgot to add - we want a 2BR and would like to keep rent under $2500.
I’d also add downtown Easton the list. Not sure what exactly your medical care team needs are but it is very walkable area and is close to hcmc and University of MN medical center.
Thank you! That one didn’t come up in my searches!
You could consider Prospect Park, or South St. Anthony Park. You’re on the Green Line but also close to the river. Close to the U so lots of activity close but not too close. IMO this is the hidden gem of the Twin Cities.
Love a hidden gem, thank you!!
No to uptown - not what it used to be
I have lived in Standish Ericsson neighborhood for 30 years and love it. Very convenient to everywhere. Lots of great places to eat. Light rail. Cool diverse neighbors.
Staying for 30 years is quite the endorsement!
I was single (female) for 20 years of that, too. Granted, had a German Shepherd 😉
Standish, Kingfield, Kenwood, Cedar-Isles, Cooper, Saint Anthony Park, Prospect Park.