Let the numbers do the talking.
Duluth, MN vs Mankato, MN
Duluth, MN vs Mankato, MN: What the data shows
Duluth, MN is in Duluth, 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 — $201,100 less than Duluth, MN's $450,500. WYLT rates Duluth, 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. Duluth, MN has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Mankato, MN has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Duluth, MN has Low flood risk and Mankato, MN has Low flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, Duluth, MN has the higher school rating — Duluth, MN rates 4.6/10 and Mankato, MN rates N/A.
| Category | Duluth, MN | Mankato, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $451K | $249K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $693 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $39K | $65K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 41/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 25/100 | 25/100 |
| Commute | 177 min | 107 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 4.6/10 ✓ Better schools | N/A |
| Best for | Retirees seeking a quiet, low‑cost communityFamilies with children needing good schoolsRemote workers who can tolerate long commutes | Affordability seekersCommunity activistsPeople who prefer small‑town feel |
Bottom line
Both neighborhoods have distinct trade-offs — review the data above to find your best fit.
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