Let the numbers do the talking.
Edina, MN vs Mankato, MN
Edina, MN vs Mankato, MN: What the data shows
Edina, MN is in Edina, 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 — $67,400 less than Edina, MN's $316,800. WYLT rates Edina, 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. Edina, MN has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Mankato, MN has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Edina, MN has Low flood risk and Mankato, MN has Low flood risk.
Edina, MN is the more walkable neighborhood. Edina, MN scores 29/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Mankato, MN's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Edina, MN has the higher school rating — Edina, MN rates 5.1/10 and Mankato, MN rates N/A.
| Category | Edina, MN | Mankato, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $317K | $249K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $72K ✓ Higher income | $65K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 29/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 45/100 ✓ Better transit | 17/100 |
| Bike Score | 48/100 ✓ More bikeable | 25/100 |
| Commute | 17 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 | 5.1/10 ✓ Better schools | N/A |
| Best for | Families seeking good schoolsCommuters to MinneapolisRemote workers needing a quiet environment | Affordability seekersCommunity activistsPeople who prefer small‑town feel |
Bottom line
For those prioritizing a balance of affordability, decent schools, and a relatively short commute to a major city, Edina is the better choice, despite its higher cost of living. In contrast, Mankato is a more suitable option for those on a tight budget who value a small-town feel and are willing to sacrifice walkability and access to quality schools. Edina's proximity to Minneapolis and better school rating make it a more well-rounded choice for most people.
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