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 — $5,800 less than Minneapolis, MN's $339,100. WYLT rates Apple Valley, MN as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Minneapolis, 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. 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 26/100 (mostly car-dependent). 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 | Good for now |
| Median Price | $333K ✓ Lower price | $339K |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $98K ✓ Higher income | $78K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 9/100 | 26/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 24/100 | 41/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 54/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 27 min | 6 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 | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 4.3/10 | 5.7/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesCommutersRetirees | young professionalsstudentscommuters |
Bottom line
For families or retirees prioritizing safety and a steady cost of living, choose Apple Valley. If you're a young professional or commuter looking for walkable streets and urban amenities, choose Minneapolis, but be prepared for a higher cost of living. Ultimately, Apple Valley offers a quieter, more suburban experience, while Minneapolis provides a more vibrant urban environment.
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