Minnesota ranks almost dead last in our best states to retire to rankings. High taxes, higher cost of living and cold weather make a combination that’s hard to overcome if you’re only interested in metrics. While Minnesota might not be the cheapest state to retire to, it’s much better than the ranking would indicate. The land of 1000 lakes gives you something that is pretty hard to find elsewhere and it’s secret is in it’s name. Affordable lakeside living! If you’re retiring to Minnesota or already there here are 5 of the best cities to retire to in Minnesota based on the same metrics that we used for our national rankings as well as availability of retirement communities.
Edina
If you’re looking for a town that gives you all the conveniences of a big city without having to be in Minneapolis, Edina is your retirement destination. Housing prices in Edina are a little higher here due to all that but it’s consistently mentioned as a great city for retirees and families alike.
Another great benefit to retiring in Edina is access to health care services through Fairview Southdale Hospital which offers both primary care and specialized treatment for seniors, as well as many recreational programs for exercise and socialization jointly offered by the city itself as well as local churches and other faith-based organizations.
From nearby discoveries such as Lake Harriet or Minnehaha Falls—both part of Minneapolis’ premier regional park offering nature trails around serene lakes—to modern conveniences like boutique restaurants, golf courses, country club memberships and shopping centers right at your fingertips; this city has something for everyone! In conclusion, Edina truly is one of the best cities in Minnesota to retire too with its outstanding health care resources, low cost of living options, plentiful recreational activities—all within close proximity of Minneapolis’ social amenities.
Minetonka
Minetonka, named for the Lake Minetonka, is ideal for retirees that want a smaller town experience and live on the lake. Renters will also be pleased since a one-bedroom apartment here usually costs around $810 per month on average – much lower than most other cities in Minnesota’s Twin Cities region. Moreover, seniors who need quality health care have a variety of options at hand such as urgent care centers and specialized practices where physicians work solely with elder patients giving them better treatment plans tailored specifically according to their needs.
With its access Lake Minnetonka shoreline activities – just be careful when the lake freezes. In addition, the Big Willow Community Preserve and Athletic has over 95 acres of fun. It has open spaces and plenty of space for walking, with biking trails too. Civic Center Park offers plenty of off-street parking, which is convenient for the picnic area, outdoor amphitheater, walking, and biking trails. The park is completely handicap accessible.
Minnetonka Center for the Arts offers a variety of classes and there are large national franchise fitness centers, such as Anytime Fitness and SOTA fitness. In addition, your just a short drive to Minneapolis should you want to visit the big city.
Albert Lea
Albert Lea is a great option for retirees looking for a balance between city amenities and natural beauty. A small city located in the extreme southeast corner of Minnesota, Albert Lea natural beauty lends itself perfectly to outdoor activities like hiking through Albert Lea Lake State Park or golfing. With this laid back atmopshere, Albert Lea is almost perfect for retirees because it’s also a bit more affordable than Edina. The median home value in Albert Lea is just over $117,000—well below the national average!
Healthcare needs in retirement are met by the Mayo Clinic Health System – Albert Lea/Austin campus which provides comprehensive medical/surgical programs in addition to long-term care and specialty clinics—including physical therapy, hospice care and cardiology services! Additionally, there is an abundance of senior support programs available such as Meals on Wheels and transportation assistance so seniors can stay connected with friends and family.
Retirees won’t find themselves lacking things to do in due to daily events such as music concerts down at Myre Big Island State Park as well as monthly Farmers Markets downtown where residents can purchase local produce.
Hibbing
Located in northern Minnesota, Hibbing has a surprisingly mild climate year-round, with temperatures ranging between 40°F and 60°F in the winter with a few days as low as 0°F and 65° – 75°F during the summer. This is partly due to the fact that Hibbing lies in the valley of a mountain range called “the iron mountains.”
There are plenty of things to do in the area all year round for retirees looking for activities like the Northern Lights Entertainment Center which features bowling lanes, a billiards hall, arcade games and dining area open year-round perfect for seniors who enjoy going out with friends or family members without ever having to leave town.
The median home price is just over $100,000 and median rent comes it at around $700 a month. Health care is also an important factor when considering retirement. Hibbing is home to Fairview Range Medical Center which offers comprehensive medical care for patients of all ages. Fairview Range Medical Center also has three senior centers that provide activities such as exercise programs, arts and crafts classes, painting lessons and more helping seniors remain active and healthy as they age.
Brainerd
Located in the beautiful North Central part of Minnesota, Brainerd is an excellent choice for retirees who wish to explore a rural and friendly community. Like all of our choices for retirement in Minnesota, Brainerd represents some of the best in lakeside living.
There are a variety of winter and summer recreational activities can be enjoyed such as ice-skating rinks and cross country ski trails in the colder months or cycling trails and fishing spots during the warm seasons. There are also Broadway shows at the Historic Chief Theatre or even casinos for those who like to take a gamble!
The hospitals Essentia/St Joseph’s Medical Center and Cuyuna Regional Medical Center more than cover you for all your medical needs.
