Let the numbers do the talking.
Apple Valley, MN vs Saint Paul, MN
Apple Valley, MN vs Saint Paul, MN: What the data shows
Apple Valley, MN is in Apple Valley, MN while Saint Paul, MN is in Saint Paul, MN — both in the same state. On home prices, Apple Valley, MN is the more affordable option at $333,300 median — $111,500 less than Saint Paul, MN's $444,800. WYLT rates Apple Valley, MN as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Saint Paul, 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. Saint Paul, MN has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Apple Valley, MN has Low flood risk and Saint Paul, MN has Low flood risk.
Saint Paul, MN is the more walkable neighborhood. Apple Valley, MN scores 9/100 (car-dependent) versus Saint Paul, MN's 42/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Saint Paul, MN has the higher school rating — Apple Valley, MN rates 4.3/10 and Saint Paul, MN rates 6.1/10.
| Category | Apple Valley, MN | Saint Paul, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $333K ✓ Lower price | $445K |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $98K | $112K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 9/100 | 42/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 24/100 ✓ Better transit | 20/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 27 min | 15 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 | 6.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesCommutersRetirees | young professionalscommutersfirst‑time homebuyers |
Bottom line
If you're a family, commuter, or retiree prioritizing safety and a steady cost of living, Apple Valley might be a better fit due to its good schools and safer environment. On the other hand, if you're a young professional, first-time homebuyer, or remote worker looking for a more affordable entry into the Minneapolis market with somewhat better transit, Saint Paul is worth considering. Ultimately, choose the neighborhood that aligns with your specific needs and lifestyle.
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