The Ultimate Guide to Renting an Apartment in Minneapolis (2026)
- Mar 7
- 14 min read
Moving to Minneapolis? Whether you're relocating for work, attending the University of Minnesota, or simply looking for a better apartment fit, understanding the right neighborhood, and the right building, can make all the difference.
This guide walks through rental pricing, neighborhood breakdowns, nearby universities, lifestyle amenities, and what to look for in a well-managed apartment community.
Average Rent Prices in the Twin Cities
The cost of renting an apartment in Minneapolis or St. Paul is determined by a confluence of location-specific and property-related factors. Understanding these variables is key to setting realistic expectations during your apartment search.
Primary Factors Influencing Rental Rates:
Neighborhood Proximity and Demand:
University Corridors: Areas immediately surrounding the University of Minnesota experience exceptionally high demand driven by students and university staff. This proximity is a significant premium driver.
High-Demand Hubs: Neighborhoods known for their nightlife, dining, and job opportunities, such as the North Loop, Downtown West, and Uptown, naturally command top-tier pricing.
Access to Public Transit (Light Rail):
Apartments within easy walking distance of the METRO Blue Line (connecting to the airport and Mall of America) and the METRO Green Line (connecting to St. Paul and the U of M) are highly sought after. The convenience of car-free commuting directly translates into higher rental costs.
Building Age and Renovation Level:
New Construction/Luxury: Buildings constructed in the last decade, particularly those with high-end finishes (granite/quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, in-unit laundry), represent the highest end of the market range.
Renovated Classics: Older, charming buildings that have undergone comprehensive modern renovations also command premium pricing, offering a blend of character and convenience.
Classic/Non-Renovated: Apartments in older, non-renovated buildings typically offer the most budget-friendly and more affordable apartment options, though they may lack certain modern amenities.
Included Amenities:
The presence of desirable, modern amenities significantly impacts the price. These may include a fitness center, rooftop deck, communal workspaces, secure package delivery systems, and dedicated pet areas. Luxury buildings often roll these into a mandatory amenity fee or incorporate them into the base rent.
Parking Availability:
In dense urban areas like Downtown and the North Loop, secured, off-street parking (especially heated, underground parking) is a highly valued and often separate, significant cost. Buildings that include a parking spot in the rent offer considerable value.
Typical Market Rental Ranges for In The City Apartments:
The following ranges represent apartment complexes within the Twin Cities for rent by In The City Apartments:
Unit Type | Estimated Monthly Rental Range | Considerations |
Studio | ~$879 - $1,100+ | Generally found in older, high-density buildings or compact units in new construction. Expect lower-end pricing outside core areas. |
1 Bedroom | ~$1,100 - $1,500+ | This is the most common unit type. The higher end of this range is typical for modern finishings, buildings with community amenities or prime locations. |
2 Bedroom | ~$1,249 - $2,080+ | Popular for roommates, remote workers needing office space, or small households. The higher end of this range is typical for modern, amenity-rich buildings or prime locations. |
The Minneapolis rental market is notably competitive, especially for apartments that combine convenience (light rail access) and high demand (University proximity). These high-value properties tend to lease extremely quickly, often requiring applicants to be prepared with documentation and security deposits ready to secure the unit immediately upon viewing. Seasonal fluctuations mean that the highest prices and competition are typically seen during the spring and summer months as new residents move for jobs or the academic year.
Best Minneapolis Neighborhoods for Renters
Prospect Park (Near University of Minnesota)
Prospect Park stands out as one of the most highly sought-after neighborhoods for renters, particularly those who desire the convenience of being near the University of Minnesota campus without being immersed in the high density and transient atmosphere typically associated with areas dominated by undergraduate students. The neighborhood strikes a unique balance, offering residents a more established, residential feel while still maintaining quick and easy access to campus buildings, libraries, and the vibrant activities of the wider university community. Its proximity to both the main campus and major transportation routes makes it an ideal location for graduate students, faculty, and working professionals alike.
Why Renters Choose Prospect Park
Walkable or short light rail access to campus
Quick access to downtown Minneapolis
Mississippi River walking & biking trails
Residential streets with mature trees
Mix of graduate students, faculty, and professionals
Lifestyle & Activities
River trails for biking and running
Easy access to campus events, sports, and research facilities
Neighborhood coffee shops and small businesses
High walk-scores with light rail access for car-free commuting
In the City Apartments near UMN
3020 on the Rail Apartments
The location of this apartment building in Prospect Park offers unbeatable access to the University of Minnesota and to quick connections to bus lines, Highway 280 and I-94. With modern units, a fitness center, bike storage and outdoor community space residents find 3020 on the Rail to be one of the places to live in Prospect Park.
Community: Prospect Park
Distance from UMN: 0.6 miles
Layouts: 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, 2-bedroom with a den
Apartment features: Balcony, modern kitchens, in-unit laundry, air conditioning, utilities included
Building features: Fitness center, storage lockers, elevator, indoor parking, outdoor community space
Pricing: Starts at $1,490/mo
Availability: Fully leased - Join the waitlist for spring or fall occupancy
Management Company: In the City Apartments
Priscilla Street Apartments
The Priscilla Street apartments in St. Anthony Park are full of character and charm. These pet-friendly, smoke-free apartments feature classic renovated layouts inside and a spacious outdoor community space outdoors making offering a simple and comfortable lifestyle in a welcoming neighborhood.
Community: St. Anthony Park
Distance from UMN: 2.4 miles
Layouts: 2-bedroom
Apartment features: Full kitchen, renovated units, air conditioning, utilities included
Building features: Shared laundry, storage lockers, pet friendly, outdoor community space
Pricing: Starts at $1,515/mo
Availability: Fully leased - Join the waitlist for spring or fall occupancy
Management Company: In the City Apartments
Hiawatha (near the Mississippi River)
Hiawatha is ideal for renters who prioritize transportation convenience and outdoor access. Located along the iconic Mississippi River and bisected by both the Hiawatha Avenue/Highway 55 corridor and the METRO Blue Line, this neighborhood offers unparalleled connectivity. Residents benefit from easy commutes downtown, to the airport, and to the Mall of America via light rail. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy direct access to trails along the Mississippi River and spending time in nature at Hidden Falls Regional Park and Minnehaha Falls.
Why Renters Choose Hiawatha
Direct light rail access to the Mall of America, downtown, and the MSP Airport.
Steps away from the scenic parks like Minnehaha Park.
Quick, easy access to major highways.
A more residential and spacious community feel.
Lifestyle & Activities
Enjoy weekend walks and views at Minnehaha Falls, Lake Hiawatha Park and Lake Nokomis.
Excellent bike trails with connections leading straight downtown.
Extremely convenient airport access for those who travel frequently.
Quieter, low-traffic streets compared to busier core campus zones.
In the City Apartments in Hiawatha
MN46 Apartments
These pet-friendly apartment rentals in Hiawatha boast a variety of thoughtful amenities designed for modern living. Enjoy the convenience of high-speed gigabit fiber internet, heated garage parking, and dedicated EV charging stations. For pet owners, the building features a pet wash station and dedicated outdoor space. Community features include a fully equipped fitness center, a cozy community room with a fireplace and balcony, Luxer package lockers, and enhanced security with secure fob access and a ButterflyMX video intercom system.
Community: Hiawatha, Minnehaha Ave
Distance to MSP Airport: 4.1 miles
Layouts: Studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom
Apartment features: Full kitchen, modern units, in-unit laundry, balcony, air conditioning, utilities included
Building features: Indoor parking, fitness center, pet-friendly, bike storage, indoor community space
Pricing: Starts at $1,459/mo
Availability: Leases available - Contact to schedule a tour
Management Company: In the City Apartments
Surrounding Areas Popular for Twin City Renters
While Minneapolis often serves as the initial, primary search area for newcomers and veteran renters alike, the broader "Twin Cities" metropolitan area offers a wealth of diverse and popular neighborhoods, particularly those located across the Mississippi River in St. Paul, the capital city. Many savvy renters strategically expand their geographic search beyond the Minneapolis city limits for a variety of compelling reasons, including:
Better Pricing: St. Paul and its surrounding suburbs often boast a lower cost of living and, crucially, more affordable average rental prices for comparable apartment sizes and amenities. This factor alone can be a significant draw for students, young professionals, and budget-conscious individuals.
Quieter Living and Different Vibe: Renters seeking a more laid-back, community-focused, and historically preserved atmosphere frequently gravitate toward St. Paul. While Minneapolis is characterized by its modern, bustling, and high-energy urban core, St. Paul offers a quieter charm, historic architecture, and a strong sense of neighborhood identity. Areas like St. Anthony Park, Hamline Midway, and the Merriam Park area are known for their tranquil, tree-lined residential streets.
Campus Proximity: Both cities are home to major academic institutions, and for students, proximity to campus is key. While the University of Minnesota's primary campus is in Minneapolis, St. Paul is home to prestigious institutions like Macalester College, the University of St. Thomas, Hamline University, and Concordia University. Renting in adjacent St. Paul neighborhoods is a practical and desirable choice for these students.
Unique Cultural Offerings: St. Paul is a cultural hub in its own right, home to the Minnesota State Capitol, the historic Cathedral of St. Paul, the Science Museum of Minnesota, and the world-renowned Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. Renters in St. Paul enjoy easy access to the famous Grand Avenue, known for its boutique shopping and dining, and the annual Winter Carnival, a major cultural event.
Expanding the apartment search to include St. Paul, South St. Paul and the inner-ring suburbs gives renters access to the entire metropolitan job market and cultural scene while allowing them to prioritize different lifestyle needs, whether that's saving money, seeking a quieter home, or minimizing their daily commute to a specific school or job center on the St. Paul side of the metro.
Where to Live in St. Paul
In the City Apartments near University of St. Thomas, Hamline University
The Fairview Apartments
The Fairview is a pet-friendly apartment building in Hamline Midway, a residential pocket of Saint Paul near Hamline University. Amenities include WiFi, secure storage, and a digital video intercom. Apartments feature traditional layouts and charming finishes.
Located in a walkable, bike-friendly area near cafes, shops, and parks, The Fairview offers quick access to public transit for easy commutes to downtown Saint Paul or Minneapolis. Highland Park and the Mississippi River are nearby.
Community: Hamline Midway
Distance to University of St. Thomas: 2 miles
Distance to Hamline University: 0.6 miles
Layouts: 1-bedroom
Apartment features: Full kitchen, renovated units, air conditioning, utilities included
Building features: Storage lockers, pet friendly, smoke-free, digital video intercom
Pricing: Starts at $1,008/mo
Availability: Fully leased - Join the waitlist for spring or fall occupancy
Management Company: In the City Apartments
Prior Marshall Apartments
Prior Marshall Apartments offers a classic, welcoming community feel in a timeless Twin Cities setting. This pet-friendly, 11-unit, smoke-free building in Merriam Park West features charming traditional layouts that complement the neighborhood's historic character. Residents benefit from essential conveniences, including secure entry via a digital video intercom system.
Located near Highland Park and Grand Avenue, Prior Marshall puts you right where you want to be, with quick access to everything from grocery stores to cozy brunch spots. It’s the perfect blend of comfort, simplicity, and connectivity, whether you're exploring the area or commuting to work.
Community: Merriam Park West
Distance to University of St. Thomas: 0.7 miles
Distance to Hamline University: 2.1 miles
Layouts: 2-bedrooms
Apartment features: Full kitchen, renovated units, air conditioning, utilities included
Building features: Shared laundry, pet friendly, smoke-free, digital video intercom
Pricing: Starts at $1,549/mo
Availability: Leases available - Contact to schedule a tour
Management Company: In the City Apartments
Where to Live in South St. Paul
In the City Apartments in South St. Paul
Valley View Apartments
Valley View Apartments in South St. Paul offers peaceful living in a classic, 17-unit, smoke-free community. It's the perfect choice for those who value a relaxed lifestyle yet need easy access to the city. Residents enjoy convenient amenities like WiFi, a digital video intercom system, and a spacious outdoor grassy area, ideal for fresh air or time with your pet, as this is a pet-friendly community.
South St. Paul provides the best of nature and convenience. Residents are close to the Mississippi River, scenic walking and biking trails, and local parks. Commuting to Minneapolis or Saint Paul is quick and stress-free, with nearby highway access and public transit options, and you'll find shops, restaurants, and grocery stores just minutes from home.
Community: South St. Paul
Distance to MSP Airport: 10.6 miles
Layouts: Studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom
Apartment features: Full kitchen, air conditioning, utilities included
Building features: Shared laundry, pet-friendly, smoke-free, digital video intercom, outdoor community space
Pricing: Starts at $879/mo
Availability: Fully leased - Join the waitlist for spring or fall occupancy
Management Company: In the City Apartments
When Is the Best Time for Renting an Apartment in Minneapolis?
Understanding the rental market's rhythm in Minneapolis is crucial for securing the best apartment at the best price. The city experiences distinct "peak" and "off-peak" rental seasons, driven primarily by weather, academic cycles, and general moving trends.
Peak Season: May - August
High demand, rising rental prices, fewer concessions, and the fastest-moving inventory. This period coincides with the nicest weather and post-graduation/summer employment moves.
Shoulder Season: March–April; September–October
Demand is high but slightly less frantic than the peak summer months. Good balance of available inventory and relatively stable pricing.
Off-Peak: November–February
Lowest demand, greater likelihood of finding rental promotions (e.g., MN46 offers rental discounts for longer leases), and more room for negotiation. Inventory is often slightly higher, but the quality may vary.
University-driven neighborhoods lease quickly before fall semester. Starting 60–90 days in advance gives the best unit selection.
Strategic Timing for the Best Outcomes
University-Driven Neighborhoods: Areas surrounding the University of Minnesota (UMN) operate on a predictable, accelerated timeline. Leases for these units often turn over in late summer and are frequently secured well in advance, sometimes as early as nine to twelve months out for the most coveted houses and apartments. If you are targeting a university-adjacent property for a September start, you must begin your search 60–90 days ahead of time at minimum, with the strongest selection available in the late spring.
Optimal Head Start: Regardless of your target neighborhood, starting your search 60–90 days in advance of your desired move-in date gives you the best combination of unit selection, competitive pricing, and time to weigh options. Rental management companies in the Twin Cities, like In the City Apartments, typically know their unit availability and set their rates for properties 60 days out, with many posting 90 days out to maximize their pool of potential tenants.
Join the Waitlist: Highly desirable apartments in communities like 3020 on the Rail, Priscilla Street, Valley View, The Fairview, and Prior Marshall often accept waitlist applications. Getting on a waitlist early significantly increases your chances of securing an apartment over someone who waits until the last minute. Contact In the City Apartments today to join the waitlist for your preferred community.
How to Choose the Right Area for You
Selecting the best apartment in Minneapolis for you is about more than just the building itself; it's about choosing a neighborhood that aligns with your lifestyle, priorities, and daily needs. Before you even start scheduling tours, take a moment to honestly assess what you require from your immediate surroundings.
Here are the key questions to consider:
Do I need daily campus access?
If you're a student, faculty member, or staff at the University of Minnesota or other local institutions, proximity to campus is likely a major factor. Areas like Dinkytown, Marcy-Holmes, Como, or Prospect Park offer the shortest commutes, but often come with higher rents and more activity. Weigh the cost of a longer commute against higher housing costs.
I need easy access to UMN and other universities, which apartments should I look at?
3020 on the Rail - 0.6 miles from UMN
Prior Marshall Apartments - 2.4 miles from UMN
Priscilla Street Apartments - 0.7 miles from University of St. Thomas
The Fairview Apartments - 0.6 miles from Hamline University
Is close proximity to the light rail critical for me?
Minneapolis's Metro Transit Light Rail offers excellent connectivity between downtown, the airport, the U of M, and St. Paul. If you rely on public transit and prefer not to drive, living near a light rail station is essential. This can significantly reduce or eliminate the need for a car.
Apartments I should consider that are close to the Light Rail:
MN46 Apartments - Close to the Blue Line
3020 on the Rail - Close to the Green Line
Do I want a quieter neighborhood or more activity?
High Activity: Neighborhoods like Uptown (restaurants, nightlife, shopping), Northeast (breweries, arts district), or the core of Downtown are vibrant and offer constant activity and easy access to entertainment. They can also be louder and have more traffic.
Apartment complexes I should look at in the Twin Cities in busy communities:
MN46 Apartments - Hiawatha
3020 on the Rail - Prospect Park
Priscilla Street Apartments - St. Anthony Park
Quieter Living: Areas like St. Paul, South St. Paul or other parts of South Minneapolis offer a more residential, family-friendly feel with less night traffic and noise, though they may require more commuting to major hubs.
Apartment complexes I should look at in the Twin Cities in quiet communities:
Valley View Apartments - South St. Paul
Prior Marshall Apartments - Merriam Park West
The Fairview Apartments - Hamline Midway
Do I need parking?
Parking is a major issue in many dense Minneapolis neighborhoods. If you own a car, you must determine if you need off-street parking (e.g., a dedicated lot, garage spot, or underground parking).
Which apartments can I rent that offer parking?
Priscilla Street Apartments - Surface parking (included in rent) or garage parking
Valley View Apartments - Surface parking (included in rent)
Prior Marshall Apartments - Surface parking
3020 on the Rail Apartments - Underground or surface parking
The Fairview Apartments - Surface parking
MN46 Apartments - Underground or surface parking
All In the City Apartments rentals offer parking.
I have a pet, where can I live in the Twin Cities?
If you have a dog or cat, pet policies should be one of your first filters. Not all Minneapolis–St. Paul apartments allow pets, and those that do may have breed restrictions, weight limits, monthly pet rent, or one-time pet fees. It’s also important to consider proximity to parks, green space, and pet-friendly walking routes.
Questions to ask:
Are there breed or weight restrictions?
Is there a pet deposit or monthly pet rent?
Are there nearby parks or walking trails?
Is the neighborhood walkable and safe for daily dog walks?
Areas like South Minneapolis, St. Paul, and neighborhoods near parks or river trails tend to be especially appealing for pet owners due to access to green space.
Pet-friendly apartments I should consider in the Twin Cities:
MN46 Apartments - Maximum of 2 pets per apartment
Outdoor community space to spend time with your pet outside.
Indoor pet wash station, perfect for cleaning muddy paws after a Minneapolis walk or trail outing.
Convenient access to nearby walking and biking trails for daily exercise.
Valley View Apartments - Maximum of 2 pets per apartment
Spacious outdoor grassy area to exercise your pet.
Quiet, neighborhood environment that’s ideal for daily walks or jogs.
Priscilla Street Apartments - Maximum of 2 pets per apartment
A spacious outdoor grassy area provides a quiet spot to relax or enjoy time with your pet.
Close proximity to local parks and green areas for exercise and play.
The Fairview Apartments - Maximum of 2 pets per apartment
Welcoming pet policy with outdoor space access.
Located near neighborhood parks and walking routes for daily dog walks.
Prior Marshall Apartments - Maximum of 2 pets per apartment
Outdoor green spaces where pets and people can relax.
Pet-inclusive policy that supports a comfortable living experience.
The right building matters just as much as the right neighborhood. Once you've narrowed down a neighborhood based on these lifestyle factors, make sure the specific building meets your criteria for comfort, safety, and amenities.
Ready to Find Your Apartment?
If you're embarking on the journey of renting an apartment in Minneapolis or the vibrant, nearby university neighborhoods of the Twin Cities, look no further than In The City Apartments. We offer a diverse portfolio of available units designed to fit the student, the professional, and everyone in between. We invite you to explore our exceptional properties and schedule a tour today to experience the difference.
Our commitment is to provide well-maintained, conveniently located housing that minimizes your commute and maximizes your lifestyle. Our properties are strategically located throughout some of the most sought-after neighborhoods, including locations that offer easy access to major campuses and city amenities.
In the City Apartments complexes are located in:
Prospect Park
Hiawatha
Near University of Minnesota
Near University of St. Thomas
Near Hamline University
Merriam Park West
Hamline Midway
St. Paul
South St. Paul
We understand that finding the right apartment is about more than just square footage, it's about finding a home that complements your life. We encourage you to schedule a tour with our dedicated leasing team so we can personally show you the unique characteristics of each building and neighborhood. Take the first step toward finding the perfect place that truly fits your lifestyle and commute needs.
