Affordably Minneapolis: The "Artsy-est" City That No One Knows About

The cities that come to mind when people mention art galleries, theaters and billion dollar corporations are places such as New York, Chicago and Atlanta. But not many know that Minneapolis boasts these same attractions and much more. Minneapolis may be best known as the land of a thousand lakes, but it also has more performance theater seats per capita than any other U.S. city besides New York. Not bad for the "ice box" of America, wouldn't you say? With its gorgeous architecture, big-name corporations and rich art scene, Minneapolis is fast becoming one of the best cities to move to but has just one problem; no one knows about it. And unlike well-known cities such as Los Angeles and New York, the housing here carries a significantly lower price tag. Whether you're an art professional, a theater buff or simply seeking a city with culture minus the hefty housing costs, the following Minneapolis neighborhoods have the perfect balance you've been searching for.  

Uptown  

Uptown Minneapolis is one of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city and has tons of retail, nightlife and cultural events to capture a recent transplant's interest. This neighborhood was even written about by recording artist, Prince. Catering to trendy, young professionals, you might mistake this section of town for downtown Seattle or Brooklyn. With tons of art galleries, theaters and restaurants, it's easy to see why Uptown is a prime neighborhood for a new recruit to the city. Slightly pricier than the rest of the city, apartments in this area can range between $700 - $900 for a one-bedroom. However, if you're an urbanite at heart, this is the perfect haven to call home.   

Dinkytown   

This lively neighborhood is the younger, college-aged cousin of Uptown Minneapolis, but has considerably higher rent due to the high demand for housing. Located within blocks of one of the top-rated public universities in the country, Dinkytown residents are mostly college students that flock to the area for the convenience and entertainment value that it offers. With tons of food and nightlife options, even non-students will appreciate this vibrant gem located in the heart of the city. But be forewarned, the noise level stays high well into the night so if you're looking for a family-oriented neighborhood, the next option is probably more your style.  

South Minneapolis  

Easily the most diverse section of Minneapolis, The South side is rich in ethnic diversity and culture with many residents of Latino, African and Asian descent. Well-known for excellent Mexican and Ethiopian cuisine, this neighborhood has more affordable rent and purchase prices than the previous neighborhoods on the list. And when it comes to great art, this section of town has you covered. From breath-taking murals to international art galleries and museums, South Minneapolis is "art-sy" and affordable.  

Downtown Minneapolis  

Target and Best Buy are just a couple of the major corporations that call Downtown Minneapolis home. With ultra-modern skyways and the super convenient Light Rail System that connects downtown to the airport and the Mall of America, this area favors a sprawling, metropolitan city. Alongside the corporate scene lies the historic art district that boasts museums and theaters such as the Orpheum, Pantages and Walker Art Museum. Perfect for young professionals, Downtown Minneapolis has stylish, high-rise lofts and apartments that'll have you thinking you live in downtown Manhattan. However, this area is in the same price neighborhood as Uptown due to being in close proximity to public transportation and multiple corporate headquarters.   

Lake Calhoun   

It wouldn't be fair to write about Minneapolis without mentioning at least one lake and as the largest lake in Minneapolis, Lake Calhoun is well worth the mention. Surrounded by lush greenery and trails for jogging and biking, this neighborhood carries the highest price tag of all the neighborhoods for good reason. Golf, kayaking and it's own Country Club are just some of the reasons this is one of the priciest neighborhoods in the city. But for a middle to high-income family in search of a safe and beautiful neighborhood to raise kids in, Lake Calhoun is the perfect fit.  

As you see, there is much more to Minneapolis than just the Mall of America. With cultural diversity, booming corporations and a rich art scene, you could say this is the best city that no one knows about; but at least now you do.