Minneapolis Apartments and Rentals

Divided by the mighty Mississippi River, Minneapolis makes for a refreshing place to splash out-at least during the warm summer. Known as the "City of Lakes," this is the third greenest city in America. It's also the most bikeable. Sound appealing? You're not the only one who thinks so. Minneapolis apartments and rentals make it onto many most wanted lists, particularly among young singles. Just make sure you're prepared for a real winter!

Minneapolis began as a settlement in 1856 and incorporated in 1867, when the railroad to Chicago began running. The city's prosperity started early. In addition to plentiful timber, Minneapolis took advantage of its proximity to Saint Anthony Falls-the highest waterfall on the Mississippi River. Abundant hydropower here ran mills that produced over 10% of the country's flour.

As far back as 1872, people were grouping this Minnesotan metropolis with adjacent Saint Paul. Together they're known as the "Twin Cities." The two municipalities aren't identical, however. Of the two, Minneapolis is younger, more modern, and culturally more Scandinavian. From the restaurants in Tangletown to the shopping district in the North Loop, from the business bustle of Downtown West to the all around appeal of East Philips, Minneapolis keeps its residents riding high.

Minneapolis used to be the flour milling capitol of the world, but it has gradually developed as a more broadly based center of business. This town links West Coast cities with the Mid-West, handling commerce, finance, transportation, health care, and industry. If you're seeking work in Minneapolis, major companies include Target, PepsiAmericas, and U.S. Bancorp.

The main campus of the University of Minnesota serves as a nexus of the local college scene-only three schools in the country enroll more students. Other options for higher education in the area include Augsburg College, Minneapolis College of Art and Design, and North Central University.

Minneapolis isn't an expensive city to call home. Rents here have been climbing steadily, however. Why? Demand is up. The average rent in town comes in at $960 a month, which isn't bad. Vacancy rates, on the other hand, are seriously low, at 2.5 percent. Competition for apartments can be tough and that's pushing rents higher. Local authorities expect demand to ease as new construction continues to add rental units to the market.

Only New York City puts on more plays per capita than Minneapolis. Surprised? Don't be. This is the third largest theater market in the United States. It isn't only drama that brings people to the Mini Apple, though. The Walker Art Center is the one of the country's biggest modern art museums. If you prefer your entertainment a little louder, keep an eye out for Prince. The High Priest of Pop was born and raised in Minneapolis.

If you're a sports fan, you'll have company in this part of the country. The Vikings, the Twins, and the Timberwolves all play in Minneapolis. For outdoor entertainment, Minneapolis' Chain of Lakes has been called one of the best-designed park systems in America. It's perfect for everything from jogging to ice-skating, depending on the season.

The city of Minneapolis keeps things hopping throughout the year. Take a spin through special events such as TwinsFest, Art-A-Whirl, the Twin Cities Hot Summer Jazz Festival, the massive Minnesota Fringe Festival, and the Twin Cities Marathon. There's something going on for everyone here, young and old.

Whether you're new to town or just moving between Minneapolis apartments, Rent.com® can lend a hand. Browse our rental listings to find some of this city's hottest homes.