Let the numbers do the talking.
Apple Valley, MN vs Duluth, MN
Apple Valley, MN vs Duluth, MN: What the data shows
Apple Valley, MN is in Apple Valley, MN while Duluth, MN is in Duluth, MN — both in the same state. On home prices, Apple Valley, MN is the more affordable option at $333,300 median — $117,200 less than Duluth, MN's $450,500. WYLT rates Apple Valley, MN as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Duluth, MN as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Apple Valley, MN has the stronger safety profile of the two. Apple Valley, MN has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Duluth, MN has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Apple Valley, MN has Low flood risk and Duluth, MN has Low flood risk.
Apple Valley, MN is the more walkable neighborhood. Apple Valley, MN scores 9/100 (car-dependent) versus Duluth, MN's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Duluth, MN has the higher school rating — Apple Valley, MN rates 4.3/10 and Duluth, MN rates 4.6/10.
| Category | Apple Valley, MN | Duluth, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $333K ✓ Lower price | $451K |
| Median Rent | $2K | $693 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $98K ✓ Higher income | $39K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 9/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 24/100 | 41/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 27 min ✓ Shorter commute | 177 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 4.3/10 | 4.6/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesCommutersRetirees | Retirees seeking a quiet, low‑cost communityFamilies with children needing good schoolsRemote workers who can tolerate long commutes |
Bottom line
For families with children and those prioritizing good schools, Duluth is the slightly better choice, despite its lengthy commute. For commuters looking for urban amenities and a shorter drive to Minneapolis, Apple Valley is the way to go, offering a safer, more affordable option with decent schools on the plus-side. For retirees seeking quiet, low-cost living, both neighborhoods may fit the bill, with Duluth offering an even lower cost of living.
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