Cost of Living in Minneapolis, Minnesota: Rent, Food & More

Moving to a new city always comes with one big question: how much will it cost to live there? For students heading to Minneapolis, the answer is reassuring. The cost of living in Minneapolis is about 7% lower than the U.S. average, with a cost of living index in Minneapolis of 93.2 (100 being the national benchmark).

On average, a single person spends around $4,500 per month on essentials like rent, groceries, transport, and utilities. Housing is where you’ll save the most, with rents 12–17% cheaper than the national average. In short, Minneapolis offers an affordable lifestyle without missing out on city perks like great food, cultural events, and green spaces. In this blog on the cost of living in Minneapolis Minnesota, discover clever hacks to get affordable housing and enjoy the Twin Cities’ charm without icing out your wallet!

Average Cost of Living in Minneapolis

The average cost of living in Minneapolis is around 6–7% lower than the national average, making it a relatively affordable choice for students compared to many United States cities. Rent is the biggest factor, but it’s about 12–17% cheaper than the national average, which eases student budgets. Utilities and transportation also cost less here, while groceries and healthcare can be slightly higher depending on personal lifestyle. Overall, students find Minneapolis to be a balanced and budget-friendly city without compromising on quality of life.

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Category	Minneapolis Cost (Est.)	Comparison to National Avg.
Rent (1-bed apartment)	~$1,390–$1,490	12–17% lower than the national average
Groceries	~$350–$400	2–3% higher than the national average
Utilities	~$150–$170	3–4% lower than the national average
Healthcare	~$300–$350	5–11% higher than the national average
Transportation	~$100–$120 (monthly pass)	7% lower than the national average
Goods & Services	~$200–$250	4% lower than the national average

Cost of Living in Minneapolis, MN: Rent & Housing Costs

When it comes to living expenses in Minneapolis, housing is often the biggest expense for students. The city is more affordable than many U.S. metros, with rent averaging 12–17% lower than the national average. Depending on whether you choose a private studio, a one-bedroom apartment, or shared housing, your monthly calculation of living expenses in Minneapolis for housing can vary a lot.

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Housing Type	Average Monthly Cost
Shared Apartment/Room	~$700 – $900
Studio Apartment	~$1,100 – $1,300
1-Bedroom Apartment	~$1,390 – $1,490
2-Bedroom Apartment	~$1,800 – $2,000

Tip: For affordable living, look at shared apartments in Dinkytown or Prospect Park, where many students stay close to the University of Minnesota (UMN). To make the search easier, check amber for verified listings with flexible rent options and student-friendly amenities.

Cost of Living in Minneapolis, MN: Rent by Neighborhood

When looking at the cost of living in Minneapolis Minnesota, rent differs widely depending on the neighborhood. Some areas are affordable and quiet, while others come with higher price tags but more social perks. Here’s a breakdown of the cost of living in Minneapolis by each area:

1. CARAG: Average rent around $1,150/month. One of the cheapest spots in the city, ideal for students on a budget. Offers a laid-back residential feel.

2. Tangletown: About $1,160/month. Green, calm, and suburban in character. Good for those who prefer peace over nightlife.

3. Ventura Village: Roughly $1,175/month. Affordable, diverse, and community-driven. Great for students who want low rent near the city.

4. Stevens Square: Around $1,180/month. Central and budget-friendly, with easy access to downtown.

5. Seward / Windom Park: Mid-$1,200s. Balanced option with student-friendly amenities, transit access, and a mix of urban + residential vibes.

6. Loring Park – About $1,450/month. Known for its artsy, cultural atmosphere and proximity to downtown events.

7. Uptown: Around $1,690/month. Trendy and lively, packed with nightlife, cafes, and shops. Popular among younger crowds but pricier.

8. North Loop (Warehouse District): Around $2,070/month. Premium and modern, with loft-style apartments and a buzzing social scene. One of the most expensive student picks.

Where to Find the Best Affordable Apartments in Minneapolis, MN?

If you’re looking for budget-friendly housing, amber offers a wide range of affordable student apartments in Minneapolis, MN. From shared rooms to private studios, you can compare verified listings, check amenities, and choose housing near top universities like the University of Minnesota. With flexible booking options and all-inclusive rent, amber makes it easy to find the best affordable apartments without the hassle.

1. University Commons Minneapolis
2. Grandmarc Seven Corners, Minneapolis
3. Identity Dinkytown, Minneapolis
4. Yugo Minneapolis 412 Lofts, Minneapolis
5. Yugo Minneapolis Sydney Hall, Minneapolis

Cost of Living in Minneapolis, MN: Utilities Cost

When calculating living expenses in Minneapolis, utilities are another key part of a student’s budget. The cost of utilities is 3–4% lower than the national average for most basic bills, though winter heating can push costs up. On average, utilities for a standard apartment come to about $150–$170/month, with internet adding around $60–$70/month.

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Utility Type	Average Monthly Cost
Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Trash	~$150 – $170
Internet (High-Speed, Unlimited)	~$60 – $70
Mobile Phone Plan	~$40 – $50

Tip: Students can save on the average cost of living in Minneapolis by sharing apartments, where utility bills are split among roommates. Many amber student housing options also include utilities in rent, making monthly expenses more predictable.

Cost of Living in Minneapolis, MN: Food & Grocery Costs

Food plays a major role in the cost of living in Minneapolis, especially for students who juggle between cooking at home and eating out. The cost of groceries is 2–3% higher than the national average, and on average, a single person spends around $350–$400 per month on groceries.

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Item / Category	Average Price / Cost	Notes
Monthly Groceries (per person)	~$350 – $400	Includes essentials like bread, milk, rice, fruits & vegetables
Milk (1 liter)	~$1.10 – $1.30	Slightly cheaper than the U.S. average
Bread (500g loaf)	~$2.80 – $3.00	Local bakeries may charge higher
Rice (1 kg)	~$4.00 – $5.00	Varies by brand/store
Eggs (dozen)	~$3.00 – $3.50	Stable pricing
Chicken (1 kg)	~$11 – $12	Fresh cuts from local markets
Apples (1 kg)	~$5.50 – $6.00	Seasonal pricing
Bananas (1 kg)	~$1.50 – $1.80	Budget-friendly fruit
Tomatoes (1 kg)	~$4.20 – $4.50	Fresh produce at local stores
Meal at an Inexpensive Restaurant	~$15 – $18	Casual dining / student-friendly cafes
Mid-range Meal for Two	~$70 – $80	3-course dining
Fast Food Combo (McDonald’s, etc.)	~$10 – $12	Cheapest option for quick meals
Cappuccino / Coffee	~$4.00 – $5.00	Local cafés are slightly pricier than chains

Tip: Cooking at home can cut your food costs nearly in half. Many amber student accommodations include kitchens, making it easier to shop in bulk at stores like Aldi or Trader Joe’s and save on the overall cost of living in Minneapolis.

Cost of Living in Minneapolis, MN: Transportation Costs

Transportation is an important part of the cost of living in Minneapolis, but the city makes it easy for students to get around affordably. The Metro Transit system (buses and light rail) covers most areas, and students of UMN and UMTC can access special discounts through passes like the Student Go-To Pass.

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Transport Option	Average Cost	Notes
Single Bus/Light Rail Ride	$2.00 (off-peak), $2.50 (rush hour)	2.5-hour validity with transfers
7-Day Pass	~$24	Unlimited rides for a week
Monthly Student Go-To Pass	~$85	Unlimited rides for students (Metro Transit)
Standard Monthly Adult Pass	~$120	Unlimited rides for all adults
University of Minnesota Shuttles	Free	Connects East Bank, West Bank, and St. Paul campuses
Gasoline (per gallon)	~$3.40 – $3.60	Seasonal variation
Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)	~$3.50 – $4.00	Plus ~$1.80 per additional km
Uber/Lyft (within city center)	~$12 – $18 per ride	Distance & surge pricing apply
Bike Share (Nice Ride Minnesota)	~$6/day or $90/year	Popular, especially in summer/fall
Car Parking (Downtown)	~$8 – $12/day; Monthly passes ~$120–$150	Monthly passes available

Student Discounts & Cards

1. Student Go-To Pass (Metro Transit): Unlimited rides on buses and trains for about $85/month.
2. U-Pass (University of Minnesota): Semester-long discounted transit pass for UMN students.
3. University Shuttle Services: Free UMN shuttles run frequently between East Bank, West Bank, and St. Paul campuses, saving both money and time.

Tip: Relying on the Student Go-To Pass or U-Pass along with free UMN campus shuttles can slash your transportation costs by more than half compared to owning a car. Combine this with biking in warmer months to make commuting almost cost-free.

Cost of Living in Minneapolis, MN: Healthcare & Insurance Costs

Healthcare is another factor in the cost of living in Minneapolis, and it can be expensive without insurance. On average, a student health insurance plan costs around $200–$300 per month, while comprehensive private plans may go higher. Basic doctor visits range from $100–$150 without insurance, and prescriptions typically cost $10–$30, depending on coverage.

Tip: International students should check university-sponsored health insurance plans, which are often cheaper and designed to meet visa requirements. Choosing accommodations near clinics and campus health centers can also help cut down on living expenses in Minneapolis.

Cost of Living in Minneapolis, MN: Entertainment & Leisure Costs

Entertainment and leisure are essential parts of student life, and they contribute to the overall cost of living in Minneapolis. From gyms and movie nights to concerts and dining out, the city offers both budget-friendly and premium options. Students usually spend $120–$200 per month, depending on lifestyle and choices.

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Activity / Expense	Average Cost	Notes
Movie Ticket	~$12 – $15	Standard cinema ticket
Fitness/Gym Membership	~$40 – $60/month	Discounts are often available for students
Dining Out / Nightlife	~$100 – $150/month	Depends on frequency and location
Coffee at Café	~$4 – $5	Local cafés are slightly higher than chains
Concert / Sports Event	~$40 – $80 per ticket	Varies by event
Free Activities	$0	Parks, lakes, UMN cultural events, city festivals

Tip: Mix free options like Minneapolis parks and student events with occasional dining or concerts. Using your student ID often unlocks discounts at gyms, museums, and entertainment venues.

Cost of Living in Minneapolis: Miscellaneous Expenses

Beyond rent, food, and transport, there are everyday extras that also add to the cost of living in Minneapolis. These include clothing, personal care, and household items. While small individually, they can add up quickly if not budgeted for. On average, students should set aside $100–$200/month for these miscellaneous expenses.

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Expense Type	Average Cost	Notes
Clothing (Jeans, mid-range)	~$45 – $55	Branded stores cost more
Shoes (Mid-range Sneakers)	~$80 – $100	Depends on brand/style
Personal Care (Toiletries, grooming)	~$40 – $60/month	Shampoo, soap, cosmetics, etc.
Household Items (Cleaning supplies, laundry)	~$25 – $40/month	Shared apartments reduce costs
Cinema / Subscription (Netflix, Spotify, etc.)	~$12 – $15 each	Entertainment add-ons
Fitness Class/Activity (Yoga, Dance, etc.)	~$20 – $40/session	Optional leisure

Tip: Buying clothes during seasonal sales and splitting household purchases with roommates can keep miscellaneous costs low. Many student housing options on amber also provide in-built amenities like gyms and laundry, reducing extra expenses.

Cost of Living in Minneapolis vs Other U.S. Cities

When evaluating the cost of living in Minneapolis, it’s helpful to see how it compares to other major U.S. cities. Minneapolis is about 7% cheaper than the national average, with rent and transportation being noticeably more affordable. While groceries and healthcare can be slightly higher, the city still offers a better balance of affordability and lifestyle compared to larger metros like New York or Los Angeles.

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City	Cost of Living Index	Avg. Monthly Rent (1-Bed)	Notes
Minneapolis	93.2	~$1,390 – $1,490	7% cheaper than the U.S. average
New York City	168.6	~$3,200 – $3,500	Among the highest in the U.S.
Los Angeles	146.6	~$2,500 – $2,700	Expensive housing, high groceries
Chicago	106.9	~$1,700 – $1,900	Higher rent but similar lifestyle costs
Houston	94.1	~$1,250 – $1,400	Slightly cheaper, lower groceries
Boston	150.0+	~$2,800 – $3,000	Costly for housing and food

Minneapolis offers a solid middle ground. The average cost of living in Minneapolis is less than in coastal hubs like New York, Boston, and LA, while providing better job opportunities and amenities than many cheaper Southern cities. For students, this means enjoying city life without draining your budget.

To sum up, the cost of living in Minneapolis is relatively student-friendly, sitting about 7% below the U.S. average. Most students spend around $2,200–$2,400 per month on essentials like rent, food, transport, and utilities, with housing being the biggest expense. Compared to pricier cities like New York, Boston, or Los Angeles, Minneapolis offers a comfortable balance of affordability and quality of life. For students, this means you can enjoy campus life, explore cultural events, and take advantage of free parks and student discounts without stretching your budget too thin. Think of it this way: plan wisely, take advantage of student perks, and find the right accommodation (amber can help with that!), and you’ll not just survive in Minneapolis, you’ll thrive.