Golden Valley Apartments and Rentals

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Golden Valley, Minnesota, had a population of 20,371 in 2010. Incorporated as a village on Dec. 16, 1886, Golden Valley was once a rolling, hilly landscape, dotted by farms, mills and dairies. As the country's population boomed, Golden Valley boomed along with it, and the village became a city in 1972.

Golden Valley is a first-ring suburb of Minneapolis. Located just five miles west of the big city, Golden Valley offers a rare suburban culture that is interspersed with urban amenities and historic charm. Far from the tiny mansions and stereotypical lawns that epitomize newer suburbs, Golden Valley has retained its mid-century charm, boasting the perfect mix of greenery, urban parks, city character and suburban family life. Those searching for Golden Valley apartments for rent will be excited to discover the charms and conveniences of this city-suburb hybrid.

Golden Valley is an established city with close proximity to all of Minneapolis' conveniences. Residents enjoy Golden Valley's numerous parks, trails and nature spaces. Fifteen percent of Golden Valley's land mass is dedicated to parks and open space, which residents can use to recharge and relax after a day in the nearby big city. Golden Valley also boasts nearly 50 miles of trails.

Golden Valley's median age is 45.7, due to large populations of both empty-nesters and young families. Golden Valley's family demographics are also evenly distributed, with 61.4 percent of households being occupied by families and 30.4 percent of households being occupied by singles. Golden Valley's close proximity to Minneapolis' nightlife makes it ideal for singles, while its family-friendly aura makes it a safe and relaxing town to call home.

Because it is so close to Minneapolis, Golden Valley enjoys numerous economic advantages. Many companies set up shop in Golden Valley because its costs are so much lower than Minneapolis', despite being only 5 miles from downtown. According to Golden Valley's 2011 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, the city's top employers were General Mills, Inc., Allianz Life Insurance Company, Honeywell, OptumHealth, G.H. Tennant Company, Courage Center and M.A. Mortenson.

Although there are no traditional colleges within Golden Valley, numerous liberal arts, community and technical colleges are located in nearby Minneapolis. Most notable is the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, which enrolls about 38,000 students each year.

The cost of living index in Golden Valley is 113.5, which is 13.5 percent higher than the national average. However, many residents choose Golden Valley because of its comparative low rental and housing costs to both Minneapolis and newer suburbs. The median gross rent in 2010 was only $882 per month, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Many residents will also save on gas and commuting costs, as Golden Valley houses many of the metro area's principal employers. For those who need to commute into Minneapolis, Golden Valley offers a much shorter trip than many far-our suburbs and exurbs.

Because of its stringent housing standards and mid-century architecture, Golden Valley presents the West Metro Home Remodeling Fair each year. Other annual community events include run/walks, Golden Valley Days, summer concerts in the park, farmers markets, ice cream socials, golf competitions and more.

Golden Valley is also home to Brookview Golf Course, numerous parks and trails, and two community centers.

If you are looking for an apartment for rent or a house rental in Golden Valley, Minn., search for rental properties at Rent.com®.