12 Best Neighborhoods in the Twin Cities for an Amazing Lifestyle
The Twin Cities — Minneapolis and St. Paul — have long been praised for their perfect blend of city sophistication and Midwestern charm. With thriving job markets, lush parks, an energetic food scene, and a deep sense of community, this metro area consistently ranks among the best places to live in the U.S.
Whether you’re a young professional chasing opportunity, a family searching for safety and great schools, or a creative soul seeking culture and walkability, the Twin Cities have a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle.
Here are 12 of the best neighborhoods in the Twin Cities that offer an amazing balance of comfort, connection, and opportunity — plus a comparison at the end to help you decide which one fits you best.
1. North Loop, Minneapolis – Trendy Urban Energy
Once an industrial district filled with warehouses, North Loop (or the Warehouse District) has transformed into one of Minneapolis’s most desirable neighborhoods.
Think exposed brick lofts, rooftop patios, boutique shops, and award-winning restaurants. It’s also walkable to Target Field and the Mississippi Riverfront. Young professionals love its modern condos, coworking spaces, and vibrant nightlife.
Lifestyle vibe: Trendy, energetic, and connected
Why live here: Best for professionals and singles who love city life with historic charm
2. Linden Hills, Minneapolis – Lakeside Perfection
Linden Hills feels like a cozy village inside the city. Located between Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska, this neighborhood offers tree-lined streets, charming cottages, and locally owned bakeries.
Residents enjoy bike rides around the lakes, farmers markets, and family picnics in scenic parks. While homes are pricier here, the community, beauty, and walkability make it worth every penny.
Lifestyle vibe: Peaceful, family-oriented, and nature-filled
Why live here: Ideal for families or anyone craving a serene lakeside lifestyle
3. Uptown, Minneapolis – Artistic and Active
Uptown has long been the heartbeat of Minneapolis’s creative and social scene. It’s an area known for its youthful energy, art galleries, craft breweries, and lively nightlife.
Living here means you’re never far from a café, live music, or a morning jog around Lake Bde Maka Ska. Apartments and condos dominate, making it perfect for renters or first-time buyers.
Lifestyle vibe: Hip, youthful, and outdoorsy
Why live here: Great for creatives, young couples, and anyone who loves city buzz
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4. St. Anthony Park, St. Paul – Academic Charm and Green Spaces
Home to University of Minnesota professors and long-time locals, St. Anthony Park is one of St. Paul’s most intellectual and peaceful enclaves. It boasts historic homes, mature trees, and community gardens.
Its cozy downtown features a classic bookstore, coffee shop, and co-op grocery store — giving it a small-town feel within a big city. With excellent schools and a tight-knit atmosphere, it’s a hidden gem for families.
Lifestyle vibe: Scholarly, quiet, and community-centered
Why live here: Perfect for families and academics seeking peace with proximity to downtown
5. Lowertown, St. Paul – Creative Loft Living
Once a neglected warehouse zone, Lowertown has become St. Paul’s arts hub. Restored lofts and studios now house painters, musicians, and entrepreneurs.
The St. Paul Farmers’ Market, open-air concerts, and hip restaurants fill the cobblestone streets with life. You’ll also find the CHS Field — home to the St. Paul Saints — adding a fun, community-centered vibe.
Lifestyle vibe: Urban, artistic, and walkable
Why live here: Ideal for creatives, digital nomads, and young professionals
6. Summit Hill, St. Paul – Historic Grandeur and City Grace
If you love architecture and history, Summit Hill is the postcard-perfect neighborhood for you. Lined with grand Victorian mansions and leafy boulevards, it sits near the iconic Cathedral of St. Paul and bustling Grand Avenue.
While housing prices are higher, the neighborhood offers unmatched elegance, safety, and proximity to shops, cafés, and cultural landmarks.
Lifestyle vibe: Elegant, established, and scenic
Why live here: Best for professionals and families who appreciate heritage and beauty
7. Northeast Minneapolis – Artsy, Local, and Evolving
Northeast, or “Nordeast” as locals affectionately call it, is where creativity meets community. Once a working-class district, it’s now an arts and brewery haven filled with murals, galleries, and taprooms.
Housing options are diverse — from modern condos to century-old houses — and the prices are more reasonable than in the trendier west side. The neighborhood’s Art-A-Whirl festival is one of the Midwest’s largest open studio tours.
Lifestyle vibe: Artistic, diverse, and friendly
Why live here: Perfect for artists, young families, and anyone who loves culture and craft beer
8. Macalester-Groveland, St. Paul – Academic Meets Family Living
Home to Macalester College, this neighborhood is intellectual yet approachable. Locals enjoy tree-canopied streets, independent bookstores, and cozy cafes.
The area strikes a balance between academic energy and family stability, with highly rated schools and parks. Its walkability and calm charm make it one of St. Paul’s most livable neighborhoods.
Lifestyle vibe: Smart, calm, and community-oriented
Why live here: Great for families, professors, and students who want urban peace
9. Edina – Upscale Suburb with City Access
While technically its own city, Edina is a Twin Cities suburb that feels like a neighborhood on its own. Known for its beautiful homes, golf courses, and excellent schools, it offers suburban comfort with quick access to Minneapolis.
The 50th & France district is packed with boutiques, wine bars, and restaurants. Though cost of living is higher, amenities and safety make it one of the best choices for families and professionals.
Lifestyle vibe: Affluent, polished, and family-focused
Why live here: For those seeking suburban peace with urban convenience
10. Highland Park, St. Paul – Balanced and Beautiful
Highland Park offers a blend of city convenience and neighborhood tranquility. With the Mississippi River to the west and tree-lined streets throughout, it’s a favorite among families and retirees.
The Highland Village shopping area adds a walkable, small-town feel, while the neighborhood’s proximity to both downtowns makes commuting a breeze.
Lifestyle vibe: Peaceful, balanced, and green
Why live here: For those seeking safe, stable, and scenic living
11. Longfellow, Minneapolis – Progressive and Peaceful
Longfellow combines affordability, community spirit, and access to nature. It’s home to Minnehaha Falls Park, biking trails, and local co-ops.
The housing stock includes charming bungalows and duplexes, and the neighborhood has strong environmental and social values. Residents describe it as welcoming, diverse, and community-oriented.
Lifestyle vibe: Eco-friendly, inclusive, and relaxed
Why live here: For nature lovers and families who value community and sustainability
12. Stillwater – Small-Town Charm on the Edge of the Metro
Located on the scenic St. Croix River, Stillwater feels like a charming small town while remaining close enough to the Twin Cities for work or play.
Historic Main Street is filled with antique shops, wineries, and cozy restaurants. It’s perfect for those who want tranquility, space, and a sense of history without giving up access to the metro area.
Lifestyle vibe: Quaint, historic, and riverside
Why live here: Best for retirees, remote workers, and romantics who crave peace and scenery
Common Indicators: How to Choose Your Perfect Twin Cities Neighborhood
With so many great neighborhoods across Minneapolis and St. Paul, deciding where to live comes down to matching your lifestyle priorities. Here’s how to compare them effectively:
| Indicator | What It Means | Best Neighborhood Examples |
| Walkability & Access | Ideal if you prefer cafes, parks, and shops within walking distance. | North Loop, Uptown, Linden Hills, Lowertown |
| Affordability | Balance between cost of living and lifestyle quality. | Longfellow, Northeast, St. Anthony Park |
| Family Friendliness | Good schools, low crime, and a sense of community. | Edina, Highland Park, Macalester-Groveland |
| Cultural & Social Scene | Vibrant arts, dining, and nightlife. | North Loop, Uptown, Northeast |
| Peace & Nature | Quieter, greener neighborhoods with outdoor access. | Linden Hills, El Valley, Stillwater, Highland Park |
| Historic & Architectural Value | Classic homes and character-rich streetscapes. | Summit Hill, St. Anthony Park, Stillwater |
Decision-Making Tips
- Young Professionals: North Loop or Lowertown for access and energy.
- Families: Edina, Highland Park, or Macalester-Groveland for safety and schools.
- Creatives and Nomads: Northeast or Uptown for culture and coworking.
- Retirees: Stillwater or Summit Hill for elegance and tranquility.
- Eco-Conscious Lifestyles: Longfellow for its progressive, green-minded community.
Final Thoughts
The Twin Cities are an urban dream with a soul — full of lakes, parks, and a creative pulse that never fades. Each neighborhood here tells a different story: from North Loop’s industrial-chic energy to Stillwater’s riverside calm.
Whether you crave the buzz of modern living or the peace of a leafy street, there’s a corner of Minneapolis or St. Paul that feels just like home. So take a stroll, visit a farmer’s market, or grab a latte by the lake — you might just find your perfect place in the Twin Cities.
