Let the numbers do the talking.
Apple Valley, MN vs Minneapolis, MN
Apple Valley, MN vs Minneapolis, MN: What the data shows
Apple Valley, MN is in Apple Valley, MN while Minneapolis, MN is in Minneapolis, MN — both in the same state. On home prices, Apple Valley, MN is the more affordable option at $333,300 median — $56,300 less than Minneapolis, MN's $389,600. WYLT rates Apple Valley, MN as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Minneapolis, MN as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Apple Valley, MN has the stronger safety profile of the two. Apple Valley, MN has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Minneapolis, MN has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Apple Valley, MN has Low flood risk and Minneapolis, MN has Low flood risk.
Minneapolis, MN is the more walkable neighborhood. Apple Valley, MN scores 9/100 (car-dependent) versus Minneapolis, MN's 93/100 (exceptionally walkable). For families weighing school quality, Minneapolis, MN has the higher school rating — Apple Valley, MN rates 4.3/10 and Minneapolis, MN rates 5.7/10.
| Category | Apple Valley, MN | Minneapolis, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $333K ✓ Lower price | $390K |
| Median Rent | $2K ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $98K | $118K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 9/100 | 93/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 24/100 | 93/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 27 min | 2 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| 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 | 5.7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesCommutersRetirees | young professionalscommuters to downtownstudents |
Bottom line
If you prioritize a car-friendly, affordable lifestyle with good schools and a short commute, Apple Valley is the better choice. For those who want a walkable, transit-friendly downtown experience with easy access to amenities, Minneapolis is the way to go. Ultimately, if you're a young professional or active adult seeking urban convenience, Minneapolis is worth considering.
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