Bloomington, MNBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Bloomington’s location in the Twin Cities metro area makes it a prime spot for young families and professionals. Top-notch schools, a robust economy and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation contribute to Bloomington residents’ high-quality, well-rounded lifestyle.
Bloomington, MN, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
You’ll find everything you need in Bloomington, MN. There’s, of course, the Mall of America®, with 5.6 million square feet, so you can shop till you drop (plus learn how crayons are made, go through a maze of mirrors and ride rollercoasters). But, as one of the best places to live in the U.S., Bloomington also has A-plus schools, fantastic health care, unrivaled parks and some unexpected gems like a peaceful Japanese garden and a ski hill with a snowmaker so you can hit the powdered-covered slopes in the winter.
And, because Minnesota is known as the land of 10,000 lakes, there are plenty of places to stretch your legs outside. Visit Lake Harriet and Lake Calhoun for waterfront favorites like fishing or swimming. Looking to stay on dry land? Bloomington is full of bike paths, public parks and several golf courses, too.
Bloomington is also a close-knit community where residents practice what they preach in a place that values diversity and inclusion. A few years ago, the city hired a full-time racial equality coordinator.
There are plenty of jobs in Bloomington, too, as the region is a hub for headquarters. The Greater Minneapolis region is home to Fortune 500 companies like Target, Best Buy, Land O’ Lakes, General Mills and many more. Plus, an international airport nearby makes it easy for business travelers making weekly commutes and those using up their PTO days.
Bloomington, MN Quality of Life LivScore
Bloomington, MN Top Categories
Economy
Transportation
Education
Bloomington ranks highest for economy, transportation and education.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Bloomington, MN
Very cold winters bring lots of snow, and warm summers mean lots of lake days. The average highs and lows are 83°F and 62°F (summer) and 27°F and 11°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Bloomington is more than double the national average at 52 inches. January typically receives the highest average of snowfall.
The average annual rainfall in Bloomington is around 30 inches yearly, and June is the wettest month.
Bloomington averages 197 sunny days a year.
Celebrate Bloomington’s snowy season and hit the slopes at Hyland Hills Ski Area.
Bloomington Weather
197 days
Average Annual Sun
30 inches
Average Annual Rain
52 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Bloomington, MN
Take a walking tour of the city’s South Loop District and view its spectacular public art.
Pack a picnic and head to Hyland Lake Park Reserve and Play Area, where there’s a three-story slide, ropes and a scenic lake to walk around.
Grab your pals for a delicious dinner at Hazelwood Food & Drink, where your order for the table should definitely be the brie cheese curds.
Fiddlehead Coffee Company looks like a pink and green jewel box, and in addition to great coffee, this beloved shop serves hearty breakfasts like Minnesota porridge, shakshuka and breakfast paninis you can have prepared on croissants.
The Local and State Economy in Bloomington, MN
Tourism, hospitality and retail are three of the largest industries in Bloomington. The Mall of America®, Health Partners and Best Buy are some of the major employers.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Bloomington is 7.53%.
Yes, Minnesota has a state income tax.
Bloomington’s proximity to Minneapolis gives residents many providers to choose from.
There are several colleges and universities in Bloomington, MN, including Normandale Community College, Bethany Global University, Northwestern Health Sciences University and Academy College.
Quick Facts About Bloomington, MN
- Median Household Income
- $84,105
- Median Home Value
- $321,368
- Average State Property Tax
- $2,767
- Total Population
- 88,925
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $1,219
- Average Commute
- 18.4 minutes
Bloomington’s top-notch schools and fantastic health care contributed to its spot on Livability’s list of the best places to live in the U.S. Read more about Bloomington and other great communities in Minnesota for millennials. Also, check out the 25 best places to live in the Midwest.
