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Nestled in the heartland of America, the picturesque state of Minnesota offers a wealth of opportunities for retirees to savor their newfound freedom. From vibrant cultural scenes to breathtaking natural beauty, Minnesota boasts a diverse range of active adult communities that cater to various interests and preferences.
If you’ve been contemplating your ideal retirement destination, look no further than the Land of 10,000 Lakes. In this blog, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of Minnesota’s top retirement communities, where you can bask in the joys of retirement while enjoying exceptional amenities, engaging activities, and a supportive community of like-minded individuals.
Retiring in Minnesota: pros and cons
As you consider your retirement options, the state of Minnesota may not be the first place that comes to mind. However, this picturesque state in the heart of the Midwest offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and quality of life that makes it an appealing destination for retirees. To help you weigh your decision, let’s delve into the pros and cons of retiring in Minnesota.
Pros:
- Natural splendor with numerous lakes, forests, and scenic landscapes
- Enjoy all four distinct seasons, including vibrant springs and colorful autumns
- Rich arts and culture scene with world-class theaters, museums, and music venues
- Excellent healthcare system and access to quality medical facilities
- Abundance of outdoor recreational activities and opportunities for an active lifestyle
Cons:
- Brutal winters with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures
- Higher cost of living, particularly in the Twin Cities area
- Relatively high tax rates
- Limited diversity compared to more cosmopolitan areas
- Transportation may not offer the same level of connectivity as larger metropolitan areas
Best places to retire in Minnesota
Minnesota has several wonderful places to spend your retirement years, each with its own unique charm and amenities. Here are some of the best places to retire in Minnesota:
1. Minneapolis
As the largest city in Minnesota, Minneapolis offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with a wealth of cultural attractions, dining options, and entertainment venues. It boasts beautiful parks, lakes, and a robust arts scene.
2. St. Paul
Minnesota’s capital city, St. Paul, is known for its historic charm, diverse neighborhoods, and strong sense of community. It offers an extensive range of cultural events, museums, and parks, making it an attractive option for retirees seeking a balance between urban amenities and a relaxed atmosphere.
3. Rochester
Home to the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, Rochester combines excellent healthcare facilities with a welcoming community. The city offers a high quality of life, a variety of recreational opportunities, and a strong commitment to sustainable living.
4. Duluth
Set on the shores of Lake Superior, Duluth offers stunning natural beauty, a vibrant arts scene, and numerous outdoor activities. Retirees can enjoy hiking along scenic trails, explore the charming downtown area, and experience the serenity of the Great Lakes region.
5. Northfield
Located south of the Twin Cities, Northfield is a picturesque college town known for its historic architecture, cultural events, and outdoor recreation. With its small-town charm, beautiful parks, and proximity to the Twin Cities, it offers retirees a tranquil setting with easy access to urban amenities.
6. Winona
Nestled along the Mississippi River, Winona is a scenic city renowned for its picturesque bluffs, vibrant arts community, and rich cultural heritage. Retirees can enjoy outdoor activities, explore the city’s historic architecture, and take advantage of the thriving arts and music scene.
7. Grand Marais
If you’re seeking a serene and picturesque retirement destination, Grand Marais on the North Shore of Lake Superior is worth considering. Surrounded by striking natural beauty, it offers a peaceful setting with opportunities for outdoor recreation like hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
Fun things to do in Minnesota for adults
Minnesota offers an array of exciting activities that cater to diverse interests, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a culture lover, a sports fan, or a culinary explorer. Here are some fun things to do in Minnesota for adults:
1. Explore the Twin Cities
Experience the vibrant art and culture scene in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Visit renowned museums like the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Institute of Art, catch live music performances at popular venues, and indulge in the diverse culinary offerings at local restaurants.
2. Embrace the great outdoors
Minnesota’s natural beauty beckons. Explore the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness for a serene canoeing or kayaking adventure. Discover scenic hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas at state parks such as Itasca State Park, Gooseberry Falls State Park, or Minnehaha Falls Park.
3. Discover the North Shore
Take a scenic drive along Lake Superior’s North Shore and be captivated by the stunning landscapes. Explore charming towns like Duluth, Grand Marais, and Lutsen, where you can wander through unique shops, enjoy local cuisine, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere.
4. Indulge in water activities
With its abundant lakes, Minnesota offers endless opportunities for water activities. Rent a boat or kayak and set on a leisurely exploration of the lakes or bask in the sun on the sandy beaches of Lake Minnetonka or Lake Calhoun in Minneapolis.
5. Immerse yourself in sporting events
Minnesota boasts a vibrant sports scene. Cheer on the Minnesota Vikings (NFL), Minnesota Twins (MLB), Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA), or Minnesota Wild (NHL) and experience the thrill of live sports.
6. Delight in the Minnesota State Fair
Join the festivities at the Minnesota State Fair, a beloved annual event in St. Paul. Treat yourself to an assortment of delicious food, enjoy live music performances, marvel at the agricultural exhibits, and experience the exhilarating rides.
7. Embark on wine and brewery tours
Minnesota’s craft beer and wine scene is flourishing. Embark on tours of local breweries like Surly Brewing Company and Summit Brewing Company, or explore the wineries along the picturesque Minnesota Wine Trail.
8. Visit the iconic Mall of America
Make your way to Bloomington and step into the famous Mall of America. Shop to your heart’s content at a vast array of stores, have a thrilling time on the amusement park rides at Nickelodeon Universe, or marvel at the fascinating marine life at SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium.
How much would it cost to retire in Minnesota?
The cost of retiring in Minnesota can vary based on factors like housing, cost of living, and healthcare needs. Overall, the cost of living in Minnesota is slightly higher than the national average. Minnesota residents typically spend around $1,305,413 over the course of retirement, starting at age 65. Housing costs may vary depending on the location and type of accommodation chosen. The state is not very tax-friendly for retirees either, with rates ranging from 5.35% to 9.85%. Also, Social Security benefits are partially taxed.
Top retirement communities in Minnesota
Minnesota offers a variety of top-notch retirement homes that cater to the varied needs and preferences of older adults. Here are our top picks for retirement communities in Minnesota:
1. The Kenwood
The Kenwood is one of Minneapolis’s finest and highest-rated retirement communities, offering assisted living and independent living services. It has a closely knitted community with various high-end amenities, fine dining experiences, wellness programs, and a range of social activities.
2. Oak Meadows
Oak Meadows is another premium retirement community in Minnesota. Located in Oakdale, this 55+ community provides amenities such as dining facilities, common areas for socializing and activities, fitness centers, and beautifully landscaped grounds. They also offer programs aimed at promoting wellness, independence, and a sense of belonging among residents.
3. Village Shores
Village Shores is an active adult community located in Richfield, MN. It offers a range of housing options and services for seniors who are seeking an active and independent lifestyle in a supportive environment. Apart from assisted living and independent living services, Village Shores offers comprehensive dementia care for residents with memory issues.
4. Trillium Woods
Trillium Woods is a luxury retirement community in Plymouth, Minnesota. Trillium Woods provides a range of housing and care options, including independent living apartments, assisted living units, memory care, and skilled nursing services. The facility focuses on active lifestyle and community engagement.
5. Parkshore Senior Campus
Parkshore Senior Campus is an excellent choice for retirement living in Parkshore, St. Louis Park, MN. Their care services include assisted living, independent living, memory care, and respite care services. Parkshore focuses on promoting an active and engaging lifestyle for its residents, offering a variety of recreational and wellness programs, dining options, and common areas.
6. Heritage Haven
Heritage Haven is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) located in Duluth, Minnesota. The community offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care services to residents, along with an array of amenities such as social and recreational activities, wellness programs, on-site healthcare services, transportation assistance, etc.
7. The Waters on Mayowood
The Waters on Mayowood is a senior living community located in Rochester, Minnesota. It offers a range of services and amenities for older adults looking to age in place. One unique feature of The Waters on Mayowood is its focus on holistic well-being and person-centered care. They strive to create an environment where residents feel valued and empowered to live their lives to the fullest.
8. The Homestead at Maplewood
The Homestead at Maplewood is one of the best retirement homes in St. Paul, Minnesota. The community has independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing facilities, and a range of amenities to keep the residents engaged. The community focuses on providing a safe and engaging environment for seniors, with a dedicated staff that is trained to provide support and personalized care as needed.
What are the best hospitals in Minnesota?
Minnesota is home to several renowned hospitals known for their high-quality healthcare services and advanced medical treatments. Here are some of the best hospitals in Minnesota:
- Mayo Clinic (Rochester): Mayo Clinic is a world-renowned medical institution known for its unequaled patient care, cutting-edge research, and innovative treatments.
- University of Minnesota Medical Center (Minneapolis): As part of the University of Minnesota Health system, the University of Minnesota Medical Center is a leading academic medical center.
- Abbott Northwestern Hospital (Minneapolis): Abbott Northwestern Hospital is one of the largest hospitals in the Twin Cities and is nationally recognized for its clinical excellence.
- St. Joseph’s Hospital (St. Paul): St. Joseph’s Hospital, part of the HealthPartners system, is known for its top-quality care and advanced medical technology.
- Hennepin County Medical Center (Minneapolis): A nationally recognized Level 1 Trauma Center and academic medical center.
Final thoughts
Ultimately, finding the perfect retirement community is about discovering a place where one feels at home, surrounded by like-minded individuals, and supported by a caring community. The top retirement communities in Minnesota strive to create an environment that allows retirees to embrace their golden years to the fullest, surrounded by comfort, companionship, and a sense of belonging.
We hope that this overview of the top retirement communities in Minnesota has provided you with valuable insights and a starting point for your search. Take the time to explore the options, ask questions, and envision yourself in the community that resonates with you the most. Happy retirement!
FAQs
How many retired people are in Minnesota?
As per various sources, Minnesota has around 920,000 residents aged 65 or above – which is the standard retirement age. The number is expected to grow by 21% by 2040.
What is the rule of 90 in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, “Rule of 90,” is a retirement eligibility criterion based on the combined total of age and years of service. For example, if an individual is 60 years old and has 30 years of service, they would qualify for the Rule of 90 because the combined total of their age (60) and years of service (30) equals 90. This would make them eligible for an unreduced retirement benefit.
How much money do I need to retire in Minnesota?
The amount of money required to retire in Minnesota, or any other location, can vary greatly depending on several factors such as your lifestyle, daily expenses, healthcare costs, and other personal circumstances. But generally speaking, one should have around $1,305,413 or more to comfortably retire in Minnesota.
