Let the numbers do the talking.
Burnsville, MN vs Mankato, MN
Burnsville, MN vs Mankato, MN: What the data shows
Burnsville, MN is in Burnsville, MN while Mankato, MN is in Mankato, MN — both in the same state. On home prices, Mankato, MN is the more affordable option at $249,400 median — $59,800 less than Burnsville, MN's $309,200. WYLT rates Burnsville, MN as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Mankato, MN as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Burnsville, MN has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Mankato, MN has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Burnsville, MN has Low flood risk and Mankato, MN has Low flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, Burnsville, MN has the higher school rating — Burnsville, MN rates 4.4/10 and Mankato, MN rates N/A.
| Category | Burnsville, MN | Mankato, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $309K | $249K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $84K ✓ Higher income | $65K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 30/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 25/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 25 min ✓ Shorter commute | 107 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 4.4/10 ✓ Better schools | N/A |
| Best for | FamiliesRemote workers who commute to MinneapolisRetirees looking for a quieter suburban environment | Affordability seekersCommunity activistsPeople who prefer small‑town feel |
Bottom line
Burnsville offers a solid mix of affordability, a decent school system, and a short 25‑minute commute to Minneapolis, making it the better choice for families, commuters, and retirees. Mankato is cheaper but has zero walkability, no transit, and a 107‑minute drive to the city, so it’s only suitable if you value a very low cost and a small‑town feel over daily convenience.
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