The Best neighborhoods in Twin Cities cover a wide range of lifestyles: walkable urban cores, lakefront living, quiet family suburbs, and historic streets full of grand homes. This guide helps you compare the top neighborhoods in Minneapolis and St. Paul, understand who each area fits best, and make a practical decision about where to live.
Table of Contents
Northeast Minneapolis
Why it stands out:
Northeast is an arts-and-brewery district with a mix of renovated industrial spaces, independent shops, and new housing. It’s one of the Twin Cities’ most popular neighborhoods for young professionals and creative families.
Who it’s for:
People aged roughly 25–40, singles and couples who value walkability, a strong craft beer scene, local restaurants, and a neighborhood vibe that still allows for relatively affordable home purchases compared with downtown.
Housing and price guide:
Options range from older single-family homes and bungalows to newer condos in converted buildings. Prices are rising but there are still pockets where first-time buyers can find deals.
Transit and commute:
Close to downtown Minneapolis with multiple bridges connecting over the river. Biking and short drives to downtown make it ideal for professionals who work in the city.
Downtown Minneapolis (Central)
Why it stands out:
The downtown area offers high-rise living, cultural institutions, theaters, and the highest concentration of employment. It’s the core for people who want to park their car and walk to everything.
Who it’s for:
Business professionals, active retirees, and those who prioritize walkability and immediate access to shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
Housing and price guide:
Condos and apartments dominate. Expect paid parking, high walkability scores, and a lifestyle that trades yard space for convenience.
Bde Maka Ska, Lake of the Isles, and the Lakes Area
Why it stands out:
This area delivers classic “city lake” living without leaving Minneapolis. Parkways, bike paths, and lakeshore access make it perfect for outdoor activity and scenic daily life.
Who it’s for:
Families and young professionals who want lake-adjacent living, strong school access nearby, and an active lifestyle. Expect a balanced mix of ages and household types.
Housing and price guide:
From historic homes in Kenwood and Kingfield to modern condos near Uptown, prices vary by proximity to the water and local amenities. Being near the lakes typically raises cost.
Southwest Minneapolis and the Chain of Lakes
Why it stands out:
Southwest is known for excellent schools, beautiful single-family homes, and access to Lake Harriet and the Chain of Lakes for running, biking, and family recreation.
Who it’s for:
Families with school-age children and higher-income households seeking quieter streets, strong public schools, and community-focused neighborhoods.
Housing and price guide:
One of the most expensive “first-ring” areas. Homes are larger with traditional styles. Some micro-neighborhoods like “Tangletown” have distinctive street patterns and charm.
Nokomis (and surrounding neighborhoods)
Why it stands out:
Nokomis delivers serene lakes, abundant green space, and a strong neighborhood identity with slower-paced residential streets and local businesses.
Who it’s for:
Families and first-time homebuyers who want a mix of affordability and long-term neighborhood stability. There are also pockets where young buyers and renters find value.
Housing and price guide:
Craftsman-style homes are common. Prices generally trend lower than Southwest but vary with proximity to the lake and to major transportation routes.
Longfellow and Minnehaha
Why it stands out:
Longfellow neighborhoods include Minnehaha Park and waterfall access, wide bike paths, and strong community spaces. It’s one of the Twin Cities’ best spots for outdoor recreation.
Who it’s for:
Younger families, people seeking starter homes, and residents valuing quiet streets combined with easy access to parks and trails.
Housing and price guide:
More affordable than many lakes neighborhoods. Expect quiet streets, bungalow homes, and developments built around natural features.
Highland Park (St. Paul) and Nearby West Side
Why it stands out:
Highland Park mixes peaceful residential pockets with accessible local businesses and nearby redevelopment sites that add new housing options. It is a popular St. Paul choice for family life.
Who it’s for:
Families, professionals seeking quieter neighborhoods with shops and restaurants nearby, and those wanting access to light rail and regional connections.
Housing and price guide:
A mix of single-family homes, condos, and some midrise apartments. Certain neighborhoods command higher prices due to proximity to the river and retail corridors.
Summit Avenue and Summit Hill (St. Paul)
Why it stands out:
Summit Avenue is famous for historic mansions, tree-lined streets, and a distinct, stately character. Nearby Grand Avenue offers boutiques, cafes, and services.
Who it’s for:
Buyers seeking historic character and architectural grandeur, as well as those who prioritize proximity to cultural institutions and quieter St. Paul life.
Housing and price guide:
High-end historic properties are common along Summit Avenue. Prices reflect the neighborhood’s prestige and architectural significance.
Downtown St. Paul (Lowertown)
Why it stands out:
Lowertown blends historic warehouses, arts venues, and riverfront condos. It’s evolving, with a growing number of housing options that include river views at a lower price point than some lakeside neighborhoods.
Who it’s for:
Young professionals, couples, and people who want riverfront living with easier price access than some Minneapolis waterfronts.
Housing and price guide:
Condos and townhomes are common. Expect active redevelopment and a mix of historic conversions and newer construction.
Como Park (Como Park & Como Park Zoo and Conservatory)
Why it stands out:
Como Park offers large green spaces, an arboretum, and family-friendly attractions such as the conservatory and small free zoo. It’s a standout St. Paul neighborhood for outdoor recreation and quieter streets.
Who it’s for:
Families and people who favor recreational access, neighborhood parks, and a calmer residential feel while still being close to St. Paul amenities.
Housing and price guide:
Generally moderate pricing with many classic three-bedroom homes, charming tudors, and bungalow styles.
How to pick the best neighborhood in Twin Cities
Finding the Best neighborhoods in Twin Cities for your lifestyle requires clarity about priorities. Use this short checklist to narrow options quickly.
- Define daily needs:
How important are commute time, transit access, and walkability? Downtown neighborhoods prioritize walkability; lakes and park areas prioritize outdoor access.
- Set a school and family standard:
If schools matter, prioritize Southwest and Highland Park neighborhoods known for strong public schools.
- Decide on housing type:
Do you want a low-maintenance condo, a historic home, or a yard? Lakes and Summit Avenue favor large single-family homes; downtowns favor condos.
- Budget and long-term value:
Identify price bands. Expect higher costs near lakes and in Southwest. Neighborhoods farther from the core can offer better affordability and long-term appreciation potential.
- Seasonal and lifestyle fit:
If you bike and run year-round, prioritize neighborhoods with strong trail networks like the Chain of Lakes and Minnehaha corridors.
Pitfalls and things to watch for
- Gentrification and rising prices:
Popular neighborhoods can see fast appreciation. Check recent sale trends for multiple years to avoid overpaying at peak.
- Parking and vehicle needs:
Downtown living often means paid parking; older neighborhoods may have limited off-street parking.
- Floodplain and drainage:
Some riverfront and low-lying areas are in flood zones. Check FEMA maps and local flood history before buying.
- HOAs and neighborhood rules:
Condos and some new developments include associations with fees and rules—factor those into monthly costs.
- Seasonal accessibility:
Winters affect biking, walking, and snow removal. If you plan year-round active commuting, evaluate neighborhood winter maintenance and transit options.
Local resources and next steps
To narrow choices, combine these actions:
- Drive and walk the neighborhood:
Spend time during different hours and on weekends to get a feel for noise, traffic, and activity.
- Check school boundaries and ratings:
School district websites and state report cards provide objective measures.
- Use crime and safety tools:
Local police dashboards and community safety reports show trends, not single incidents.
- Review market data:
Look at 12–24 month sales trends, inventory, and days on market to understand price momentum.
Quick comparison: who fits where
- Northeast:
Young professionals and creatives who want breweries, restaurants, and a neighborhood vibe.
- Downtown Minneapolis:
Workers who prioritize walkability, culture, and convenience.
- Lakes Area (Bde Maka Ska, Isles):
Active families and professionals who value lakes and scenic routes.
- Southwest:
Higher-income families who want top schools and quiet streets.
- Nokomis and Longfellow:
Starter-home buyers and families seeking affordability and park access.
- Highland Park and Summit Hill (St. Paul):
Buyers preferring St. Paul’s quieter character, historic homes, and strong neighborhood identity.
- Lowertown St. Paul and Como Park:
Those who want riverfront condo options or major parks and family attractions.
The Best neighborhoods in Twin Cities vary dramatically by lifestyle. Prioritize what matters most—schools, walkability, parks, commute time, or housing style—and use neighborhood visits, market data, and school resources to make an informed choice. Each district offers a distinct mix of amenities and trade-offs, so matching real needs to neighborhood character is the single best way to choose.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most walkable neighborhoods in the Twin Cities?
Downtown Minneapolis, Northeast, Uptown (Lakes Area), and Lowertown St. Paul rank high on walkability due to dense retail, restaurants, and short blocks. Walk score tools can give block-level detail.
Which neighborhoods have the best schools?
Southwest Minneapolis and parts of Highland Park in St. Paul are known for strong public schools. School performance varies by district and specific attendance boundaries, so check current school ratings and schedules.
Are lake neighborhoods expensive?
Yes. Areas adjacent to lakes like Bde Maka Ska, Lake of the Isles, and Lake Harriet generally command a premium. You can often find more affordable options a few blocks away from the water.
Is downtown St. Paul different from downtown Minneapolis?
Yes. St. Paul’s downtown (Lowertown) tends to be smaller, more historic, and quieter at night compared with the larger, busier Minneapolis downtown. Both offer distinct cultural scenes and housing options.
How important is proximity to light rail and transit?
Transit matters if you rely on regional connections for work or prefer car-free commuting. Neighborhoods with light rail stops (some parts of St. Paul and Minneapolis corridors) offer better access to regional employers and airport connections.
Which neighborhoods are best for first-time buyers?
Look at Nokomis, Longfellow, parts of Northeast, and some St. Paul neighborhoods for more affordable entry-level homes. These areas balance price, community amenities, and future resale value.
How do I check for flood risk and other environmental concerns?
Use FEMA flood maps, local county environmental services, and neighborhood planning documents. Ask sellers for recent home inspection reports and check if a property requires flood insurance.
