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Using the Military Friendly® States Tool, this series explores what makes each state unique and why it may be the perfect place to begin your next mission.
Minnesota at a Glance
Veteran Population: The VA’s FY2025 Annual Benefits Report estimates 277,912 Veterans in Minnesota. The figure is different from Census population estimates because the two sources use different methods.
Veteran Employment: Minnesota has a substantial Veteran population, but a single statewide unemployment figure does not tell the whole story. Veterans should compare the local labor market, industry demand and the actual jobs available near the community where they plan to live.
Housing: Census housing values and current sale prices measure different things. Use the Census figure for a broad picture of the housing stock and current market data for a relocation budget.
Rent: Rental costs vary considerably between the Minneapolis–St. Paul metro, regional cities and rural communities. Check current local listings before making a decision.
Cost of Living: Minnesota is not a uniformly expensive state. Housing, transportation and taxes can look very different in the Twin Cities, Rochester, Duluth, St. Cloud and smaller communities.
Major Career Fields: Healthcare, medical technology, manufacturing, logistics, professional services, technology, education and government are important parts of Minnesota’s economy.
Military Connection: Minnesota’s Veteran population is supported by a statewide network of Veterans service organizations, VA facilities, higher-education programs and National Guard communities.
Best For: Veterans who want a broad civilian economy, strong healthcare and education options, access to outdoor recreation and a state where technical, operational and leadership experience can translate into multiple career paths.
The Short Version
Minnesota is worth serious consideration for Veterans who want more than a low-cost place to land. It offers a diversified economy, strong healthcare and education institutions, a substantial Veteran population and a lifestyle built around lakes, parks, trails and four distinct seasons. The trade-off is that housing and winter can be significant factors, and the best opportunities are concentrated in particular metro areas rather than spread evenly across the state.
Table of Contents
- Veteran Snapshot
- Why Veterans Choose Minnesota
- Minnesota by the Numbers
- Employment Outlook for Veterans
- Education Opportunities
- Veteran Benefits in Minnesota
- Healthcare & VA Resources
- Best Cities for Veterans
- Cost of Living
- Outdoor Recreation & Veteran Lifestyle
- Pros & Cons
- Is Minnesota Right for You?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Veteran Snapshot
Minnesota’s military connection is easy to overlook if you only think of the state as a place of lakes, snow and the Twin Cities. But the state has a substantial Veteran population and a long-standing network of military-connected communities, employers, schools and public services.
The VA’s FY2025 Annual Benefits Report estimates 277,912 Veterans in Minnesota. That makes Minnesota a state where a transitioning Service member can find more than an occasional Veteran discount or a single installation-adjacent community. There is a meaningful statewide Veteran population, including people living in the Twin Cities, Rochester, Duluth, St. Cloud, Mankato, Brainerd, Bemidji and smaller communities.
Minnesota’s military identity also comes from its National Guard and Reserve communities, the state’s long history of military service and the concentration of healthcare, technology, manufacturing and government employers that value disciplined, technical and operational experience.
For someone leaving the military, that matters because the transition does not have to mean starting over in an unfamiliar professional environment. Minnesota has a large enough economy to offer multiple career directions, but it is also a state where choosing the right metro or regional city can make a major difference.
Why Veterans Choose Minnesota
Minnesota’s strongest argument is the combination of career breadth and quality of life.
The Twin Cities provide access to a large corporate and professional-services economy. Rochester is a major healthcare and medical-technology center. Duluth offers a smaller-city environment with healthcare, manufacturing, transportation and outdoor recreation. St. Cloud provides a regional economy with education, healthcare and manufacturing opportunities. Mankato, Moorhead and other regional communities can offer a lower-key lifestyle while still providing access to jobs and education.
That variety is useful for Veterans because not every transition looks the same.
A former mechanic may find a path into manufacturing, industrial maintenance or fleet operations. A logistics specialist may find opportunities in distribution, transportation or supply chain management. A medic may pursue nursing, healthcare administration or another clinical pathway. An IT or signal Veteran may find work in technology, cybersecurity, systems administration or technical support. A senior NCO may be able to translate years of leadership into operations, project management or workforce supervision.
Minnesota also has an unusually strong connection between healthcare, education and the broader economy. That means Veterans who want to pursue a degree, certification or professional credential have more than one way to build their next chapter.
The state’s outdoor lifestyle is another genuine advantage. Minnesota’s lakes, forests, parks and trails are not just vacation attractions. They can become part of everyday life after service, whether that means fishing after work, hiking with the family, kayaking on a weekend or spending a winter learning to enjoy the outdoors rather than simply surviving it.
The catch is that Minnesota rewards planning. Housing costs vary sharply by region, winter is a real consideration, and the best civilian opportunities are not necessarily close to the community with the lowest home price.
Minnesota May Be a Great Fit If You…
✓ Want access to a diversified economy rather than a single dominant industry
✓ Are interested in healthcare, medical technology, manufacturing, logistics, technology or professional services
✓ Want strong education options and a state-specific education benefit
✓ Prefer a state with a substantial Veteran population and established Veteran services
✓ Enjoy lakes, forests, hiking, fishing, camping or winter recreation
✓ Want access to a major metro without necessarily living in a coastal city
✓ Are willing to plan around winter weather and regional housing differences
You May Want to Think Twice If You…
✕ Want year-round warm weather
✕ Strongly dislike snow, cold temperatures or winter driving
✕ Need a very low-cost housing market in a major metro
✕ Want the job market of a major coastal city without paying comparable housing costs
✕ Prefer a state where outdoor recreation is mostly warm-weather activities
Minnesota by the Numbers
| Metric | Minnesota |
|---|---|
| Estimated Veteran population | 277,912 |
| Statewide unemployment | Verify current BLS release before publication |
| Median household income | Verify current Census estimate before publication |
| Median owner-occupied home value | Verify current Census estimate before publication |
| Current median home sale price | Verify current market data before publication |
| Average rent | Verify current market data before publication |
| Cost of living | Use current regional data; statewide averages hide major differences |
| Veteran-owned businesses | Verify current Census business data before publication |
| Major industries | Healthcare, medical technology, manufacturing, logistics, technology, education and professional services |
The Veteran population figure comes from the VA’s FY2025 Annual Benefits Report. The report also shows Minnesota Veterans receiving substantial federal benefits, including disability compensation, education benefits and VA-backed home loans. In FY2025, Minnesota had 107,465 Veterans on the disability compensation rolls, with more than $2 billion paid annually in compensation.
That is important context for someone considering the state. A Veteran moving to Minnesota may be bringing federal benefits, education funding or VA healthcare eligibility into a state with its own education and Veteran services.
Housing deserves a separate look. A statewide average can make Minnesota appear more affordable—or more expensive—than the community where you actually plan to live. The Twin Cities, Rochester and Duluth are different housing markets. Smaller communities may offer lower prices, but they can also have fewer employers, fewer rental options and longer drives for specialized healthcare.
The practical takeaway is simple: compare the job, the housing and the commute together. A lower home price does not automatically mean a lower monthly cost if it requires a long commute or limits your employment options.
Employment Outlook for Veterans
Minnesota is especially interesting for Veterans because its economy is broad enough to support several different transition strategies.
The state’s major employment centers include the Minneapolis–St. Paul metro, Rochester, Duluth, St. Cloud, Mankato and other regional communities. Healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, technology, education and professional services all create opportunities for people with military experience.
Healthcare & Medical Technology
Healthcare is one of Minnesota’s most important economic strengths.
The state is home to major healthcare systems, medical employers and medical-technology companies. Rochester is particularly important because of the Mayo Clinic and the broader healthcare economy surrounding it. The Twin Cities also provide extensive healthcare, research, medical-device and health-services opportunities.
For Veterans, the connection is practical. Medical MOS experience can translate into clinical careers, healthcare administration, patient support, emergency medical services and other health-related pathways. Some roles require additional education or licensure, but the military experience can provide a strong foundation.
Manufacturing & Technical Operations
Minnesota has a substantial manufacturing economy, including medical devices, industrial products, food production, machinery and other technical industries.
Veterans with mechanical, maintenance, engineering, quality-control or production experience may find opportunities in industrial maintenance, manufacturing operations, equipment management, quality assurance and production supervision.
The important point is that military technical experience is not limited to defense contractors. Minnesota’s civilian economy includes many employers that need people who understand equipment, process discipline, safety, troubleshooting and operational reliability.
Logistics & Supply Chain
Minnesota’s location in the Upper Midwest makes logistics and transportation important to the state’s economy.
Veterans with experience in supply, transportation, inventory, distribution, fleet operations or movement control may find opportunities in supply chain management, warehouse operations, transportation coordination, procurement and logistics analysis.
These jobs can be especially attractive for Veterans who want to use skills they already have rather than immediately pursue a completely new career.
Technology & Professional Services
Minnesota also offers opportunities for Veterans with IT, cybersecurity, communications, intelligence, analytics and administrative backgrounds.
The Twin Cities have a large professional-services economy, while technology-related opportunities also exist in healthcare, manufacturing, education and government.
A Veteran with experience managing systems, analyzing information, coordinating complex operations or leading technical teams may be able to move into systems administration, cybersecurity, business analysis, project management or technical support.
Veteran Employment Support
Minnesota’s Department of Veterans Affairs provides employment and education resources, including assistance connecting Veterans with benefits and services. Veterans can also work with their county Veterans Service Officer and explore employers recognized through the Military Friendly® Employers directory.
Ready to Translate Your Military Experience?
Minnesota employers may value your military experience, but they still need to understand what it means for their business. Learn how to explain your responsibilities, accomplishments and leadership in civilian language.
If Your MOS Was…
Your military experience doesn’t disappear when you leave the military—it translates.
| Military Background | Civilian Opportunities in Minnesota |
|---|---|
| Logistics & Supply Chain | Supply Chain Manager, Logistics Coordinator, Distribution Manager, Inventory Analyst, Transportation Manager |
| Maintenance & Mechanical | Industrial Maintenance Technician, Manufacturing Technician, Equipment Manager, Quality Technician, Fleet Operations |
| Medical & Healthcare | Registered Nurse, Medical Assistant, EMT, Health Services Manager, Healthcare Operations |
| IT & Cybersecurity | IT Support Specialist, Systems Administrator, Network Technician, Cybersecurity Analyst, Technical Support |
| Intelligence & Analysis | Intelligence Analyst, Business Analyst, Risk Analyst, Compliance Analyst, Operations Analyst |
| Leadership & Management | Project Manager, Operations Manager, Production Supervisor, Program Manager, Team Lead |
Minnesota’s economy makes several of these pathways especially useful. Healthcare and medical technology create opportunities for medical MOSs. Manufacturing and logistics provide a strong home for technical and operational experience. Professional services and technology offer options for Veterans who want to move into analytical or management work.
If you need a faster credential to close a skills gap, explore certifications Veterans can earn in under six months.
Education Opportunities
Minnesota is a strong state for Veterans who want to use education benefits strategically.
The state has major public universities, private colleges, community and technical colleges, online programs and specialized healthcare and technology training. The University of Minnesota, Minnesota State system and other institutions provide a range of pathways for Veterans who want to earn a degree, certificate or professional credential.
The state also has a dedicated Minnesota GI Bill program. The program provides assistance to eligible Minnesota Veterans, currently serving military members, National Guard and Reserve members, and eligible spouses and children. It can be used for higher education, on-the-job training, apprenticeships, licenses and certifications. The maximum benefit is $15,000, and the program is separate from federal GI Bill programs.
That distinction matters. The Minnesota GI Bill is not a replacement for the federal Post-9/11 GI Bill. It is a separate state benefit with its own eligibility and residency requirements. Eligible applicants must meet the program’s requirements, including Minnesota residency rules.
Minnesota’s Department of Veterans Affairs also provides education coordinators and resources to help Veterans and their families navigate education benefits, military transfer credit, Veteran resident status and related services.
Other options worth investigating include:
- University of Minnesota
- Minnesota State University system
- University of St. Thomas
- University of St. Cloud State
- University of Minnesota Rochester
- Rochester Community and Technical College
- Minneapolis College
- Saint Paul College
- Duluth-area colleges and technical programs
- Online degree and certificate programs
- Apprenticeships and technical training
When comparing schools, look beyond the name on the diploma. Check whether the program accepts military training for credit, whether it has dedicated Veteran services and how your remaining education benefits actually apply.
You can find Military Friendly® schools and compare programs based on their support for military-connected students.
Thinking About Going Back to School?
Before choosing a program, make sure you understand how your federal and state education benefits work together.
Veteran Benefits in Minnesota
Minnesota’s Veteran benefits are worth examining carefully because they can complement federal VA benefits.
Minnesota GI Bill
The Minnesota GI Bill provides education assistance to eligible Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and certain spouses and children. It can be used for higher education, apprenticeships, on-the-job training, licenses and certifications. The maximum benefit is $15,000, subject to program rules.
State Education Support
Minnesota’s Department of Veterans Affairs provides education assistance and connects Veterans and families with state and federal programs, including the Minnesota GI Bill, federal education benefits and military transfer-credit resources.
Federal Benefits
Minnesota Veterans may also qualify for federal VA benefits, including disability compensation, healthcare, education benefits and VA-backed home loans. These are federal benefits, not Minnesota-specific benefits.
Taxes & Property
Minnesota’s tax treatment of military pay, retirement income and property should be verified against the Veteran’s individual circumstances and current state tax rules before making a relocation decision. Do not assume that a state’s general tax reputation tells you how military retirement, disability compensation or other income will be treated.
Veteran Resources
Minnesota has a statewide network of Veterans service organizations, county Veterans Service Officers and Department of Veterans Affairs resources. These can help Veterans navigate benefits, education, employment and other transition questions.
For a broader comparison of state-level benefits, use the Military Friendly® States Tool alongside Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs resources.
Important: Minnesota benefits are separate from federal VA benefits such as disability compensation, healthcare and the GI Bill.
Healthcare & VA Resources
Minnesota has a substantial VA healthcare network, but where you live will determine which facility is most convenient.
Minneapolis
The Minneapolis VA Medical Center is the state’s major VA medical facility. It provides primary and specialty healthcare, including surgery, psychiatry, neurology, oncology, dentistry and other services.
The Minneapolis VA Health Care System also provides care through community clinics and other locations across Minnesota and western Wisconsin.
St. Cloud
The St. Cloud VA Medical Center is another major VA facility serving Veterans in central Minnesota. It is particularly important for Veterans living in and around St. Cloud and the surrounding region.
Community Clinics
Minnesota’s VA network includes community clinics in locations such as Albert Lea, Alexandria, Bemidji, Brainerd, Ely, Fergus Falls, Hibbing, Mankato, Maplewood, Montevideo, Rochester, Shakopee and St. James.
Rochester
Rochester is especially important for Veterans who want access to a major healthcare economy. The city also has a VA clinic, and the broader healthcare environment can be attractive for Veterans pursuing medical careers.
Mental Health & Specialty Care
The Minneapolis VA provides mental health services, including individual and group therapy, PTSD treatment, addiction treatment and other confidential outpatient services.
The practical takeaway: Minnesota has strong VA healthcare access in its major population centers, but rural Veterans should check the actual facility serving their ZIP code before choosing a home. A smaller community may offer a lower housing cost while requiring a longer drive for specialty care.
Best Cities for Veterans
Minnesota is not a “one city fits all” state. Your best location depends heavily on what you’re trying to do next.
| If You Want… | Consider… |
|---|---|
| Biggest job market | Minneapolis–St. Paul |
| Healthcare & medical technology | Rochester |
| Smaller-city lifestyle with regional jobs | Duluth |
| Education, healthcare & manufacturing | St. Cloud |
| College-town environment | Mankato |
| Lower-key lifestyle | Smaller regional communities |
| Strong VA access | Minneapolis / St. Cloud / Rochester |
| Outdoor recreation | Duluth / northern Minnesota |
Minneapolis–St. Paul
The Twin Cities are the obvious choice if career breadth matters most.
The metro offers healthcare, technology, manufacturing, logistics, professional services, government, education and a wide range of corporate employers. It also provides access to major cultural, sports and entertainment opportunities.
The downside is that housing and transportation costs can be higher than in smaller Minnesota communities. Traffic, winter driving and the general cost of metro living should be part of the calculation.
Rochester
Rochester is a strong choice for Veterans interested in healthcare, medical technology, research and professional careers.
The city has a smaller-city feel than the Twin Cities but is connected to a major healthcare economy. It can be especially attractive for medical MOSs, healthcare professionals and Veterans pursuing education or technical careers.
The tradeoff is that the local economy is more specialized. If your career is outside healthcare or related industries, check the job market carefully before choosing Rochester.
Duluth
Duluth offers a different version of Minnesota.
It provides access to healthcare, manufacturing, transportation and regional employment while offering a strong connection to Lake Superior and outdoor recreation. Veterans who want a smaller-city environment with access to hiking, fishing, boating and winter activities may find it appealing.
The tradeoff is that the job market is smaller than the Twin Cities, and winter can be a major lifestyle factor.
St. Cloud
St. Cloud is a practical option for Veterans who want access to education, healthcare, manufacturing and regional employment without living in the Twin Cities.
It can be a good fit for families who want a smaller-city environment while still having access to a meaningful local economy.
Mankato
Mankato offers a college-town environment with education, healthcare, manufacturing and regional employers.
It may be particularly interesting for Veterans who want to continue their education while building a civilian career.
Smaller Regional Communities
Minnesota’s smaller communities can offer lower housing costs, quieter neighborhoods and strong outdoor access.
But the tradeoff is important: a lower-cost home may come with fewer nearby employers, fewer rental options and longer drives for specialized healthcare. If you are considering a smaller community, choose the job market first and the house second.
Cost of Living
Minnesota’s cost of living needs an asterisk because the state is not one uniform market.
The Twin Cities, Rochester, Duluth, St. Cloud and rural Minnesota can have very different housing and transportation costs. A Veteran moving from a high-cost coastal metro may find Minnesota reasonable. A Veteran moving from a very low-cost state may experience the opposite.
Housing is usually the biggest factor.
The Twin Cities offer the broadest job market but can also have higher housing costs. Rochester’s healthcare economy can support strong professional opportunities, but housing should be evaluated against the specific salary and commute. Duluth offers a smaller-city lifestyle, but the job market is more limited. Rural Minnesota may provide more affordable housing, but access to jobs and specialty healthcare can be less convenient.
Winter also affects the budget. Heating costs, snow removal, winter tires and vehicle maintenance are real considerations for anyone moving from a warmer climate.
The practical question is not simply “Is Minnesota affordable?”
It is: “Is the Minnesota community I’m considering affordable relative to the job I’m likely to get there?”
Outdoor Recreation & Veteran Lifestyle
Minnesota’s outdoors are one of its strongest lifestyle advantages.
The state has more than 10,000 lakes, extensive forests, state parks, hiking trails, fishing opportunities and access to Lake Superior. For Veterans who enjoy spending weekends outside, Minnesota offers a lifestyle that can be very different from a large coastal metro.
A few standouts:
- Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness — canoeing, camping, fishing and wilderness travel
- Voyageurs National Park — boating, fishing, camping and northern Minnesota scenery
- North Shore of Lake Superior — hiking, camping, waterfalls and lake views
- Itasca State Park — forests, lakes, hiking and the headwaters of the Mississippi River
- Superior Hiking Trail — long-distance hiking and backcountry recreation
- Minnesota state parks — camping, hiking, fishing and family activities
- Lake Minnetonka and other Twin Cities-area lakes — boating, fishing and summer recreation
- Duluth and the North Shore — hiking, skiing, biking and winter activities
For Veterans who enjoy hunting and fishing, Minnesota’s recreational culture is particularly strong. The state also offers opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and other winter activities.
The practical reality is that Minnesota’s outdoor lifestyle changes with the seasons. Summer can mean fishing, camping and hiking. Fall brings hunting, color and cooler weather. Winter requires a different mindset—and often better gear.
That can be a major positive for Veterans who want an active lifestyle after service. It can also be a major negative if the idea of months of cold weather sounds miserable.
Veteran Reality Check
Minnesota has a lot going for it, but do not move here based on a statewide average and a nice-looking house listing.
First: Jobs are regional. Minneapolis–St. Paul is not Rochester. Rochester is not Duluth. Duluth is not St. Cloud. The job you want may require living in a specific part of the state.
Second: Winter is a real consideration. If you are moving from a warm-weather state, the climate can affect your commute, housing budget, vehicle expenses and overall quality of life.
Third: Rural affordability comes with tradeoffs. A cheaper house can mean a longer commute and fewer nearby healthcare or employment options.
Fourth: Minnesota’s education benefits can be valuable, but they have eligibility requirements. Verify your residency and program eligibility before building your education plan around the Minnesota GI Bill.
3 Things Veterans Should Know Before Moving to Minnesota
1. Pick the Job Market Before You Pick the House
Minnesota is not one giant job market.
Start with Minneapolis–St. Paul, Rochester, Duluth, St. Cloud or another regional community based on your career goals. Then compare housing, commute and access to healthcare.
2. Winter Is Part of the Relocation Decision
Do not treat winter as a footnote.
Budget for heating, snow removal, winter tires and vehicle maintenance. If you are moving from a warm climate, consider how the weather will affect your daily routine and family.
3. Use Your Education Benefits Strategically
Minnesota offers a state GI Bill program in addition to federal education benefits.
Before enrolling, compare the Minnesota GI Bill, Post-9/11 GI Bill, Yellow Ribbon Program and other funding options. The right program may depend on your residency, school, degree and remaining benefits.
Pros & Cons
Pros
✓ Diversified economy with healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, technology and professional services
✓ Substantial Veteran population and statewide Veteran resources
✓ Strong education and healthcare institutions
✓ Minnesota GI Bill can provide additional education assistance for eligible applicants
✓ Excellent outdoor recreation and four-season lifestyle
✓ Access to a major metro without living in a coastal city
Cons
✕ Housing costs vary significantly by region
✕ Winter can be a major lifestyle and budget factor
✕ Rural communities may have fewer jobs and longer healthcare drives
✕ Specialized careers may be concentrated in specific cities
✕ Transportation costs and commuting can be significant in larger metros
Is Minnesota Right for You?
Minnesota is probably a strong choice if…
You want a state with a broad civilian economy, strong healthcare and education opportunities, a substantial Veteran population and access to outdoor recreation.
It is also a strong candidate if you want to use your military experience in a civilian career without necessarily starting from zero.
Minnesota may not be the best choice if…
You need year-round warm weather, want a very low-cost housing market in a major metro or prefer a state where outdoor recreation is mostly warm-weather activities.
The G.I. Jobs Take
Minnesota is a strong option for Veterans who want to build a career and a lifestyle at the same time.
The state’s biggest advantage is not one flashy benefit. It is the combination of a diversified economy, serious healthcare and education opportunities, a substantial Veteran population and an outdoor lifestyle that can make weekends feel like a real break from work.
The key is choosing the right Minnesota.
If you are a healthcare Veteran looking at Rochester, a logistics Veteran considering the Twin Cities, a technical Veteran interested in manufacturing or a family looking for a smaller regional community with access to education and outdoor recreation, Minnesota can make a very strong case.
But do the math first. Choose the job market, understand the housing costs and be honest about winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Minnesota a good state for Veterans?
Yes. Minnesota combines a substantial Veteran population, a diversified economy, strong healthcare and education opportunities, a state GI Bill program and extensive outdoor recreation.
What are the best cities in Minnesota for Veterans?
Minneapolis–St. Paul, Rochester, Duluth, St. Cloud and Mankato are strong options, depending on your career, education and lifestyle priorities.
Does Minnesota have a GI Bill program?
Yes. The Minnesota GI Bill provides assistance to eligible Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and certain spouses and children. It can be used for higher education, apprenticeships, on-the-job training, licenses and certifications.
What jobs are in demand for Veterans in Minnesota?
Healthcare, medical technology, manufacturing, logistics, technology, education and professional services are important career areas for Veterans in Minnesota.
Where do most Veterans live in Minnesota?
Veterans live throughout the state, including the Twin Cities, Rochester, Duluth, St. Cloud, Mankato, Bemidji, Brainerd and smaller communities. The best location depends on employment, housing and healthcare access.
Are there Military Friendly® schools in Minnesota?
Yes. Minnesota has schools recognized through the Military Friendly® program. Veterans can search the Military Friendly® schools directory for current listings.
How can Veterans use the GI Bill in Minnesota?
Veterans can use federal GI Bill benefits at eligible schools and programs, and some eligible applicants may also qualify for the Minnesota GI Bill. The state program has its own eligibility requirements and is separate from federal VA education benefits.
Is Minnesota affordable for Veteran families?
It depends on the community. The Twin Cities and Rochester can have higher housing costs, while smaller communities may offer lower prices. Veterans should compare housing, commute, taxes and healthcare access together.
What are the biggest drawbacks of living in Minnesota as a Veteran?
The biggest drawbacks are winter weather, regional differences in job opportunities, housing costs in desirable markets and potentially longer drives for healthcare in rural areas.
How Does Minnesota Compare?
Minnesota is only one of 50 options for Veterans considering their next mission.
The right state depends on your career goals, family needs, education plans, housing budget and lifestyle preferences. If you want to compare Minnesota with other states, return to the complete Best States for Veterans guide.
Up Next: Mississippi
We’ve covered Minnesota. Now let’s see what Mississippi has to offer Veterans looking for their next mission.
Looking for the complete rankings? Visit our Best States for Veterans guide.
