Blending Career and Community: Top Neighborhoods to Rent Near Major Minneapolis Employers

I'm Stephanie, your ApartmentHomeLiving.com Local Expert for Minneapolis, Minnesota. I love life in the Twin Cities. There's always something to do or see — and with so many lakes and pristine parks, a gorgeous backdrop is never far away.

Still, I've noticed that local discussions about quality of life tend to focus on recreation. In reality, Minnesotans spend a lot of time at work. Add commuting to the mix, and it can be difficult to take advantage of the Twin Cities' most gorgeous parks and enticing restaurants. That's why choosing the right location and the right rental is so important — it can free up precious time for embracing the best of the Minneapolis lifestyle.

The good news? Work-life balance should be well within reach. Minneapolis workplaces have a unique warmth and energy, offering the chance to build your dream career — and also, the chance to enjoy life beyond the office.

Another perk? An excellent balance between employment prospects and cost of living. Many neighborhoods provide surprisingly affordable rentals, with options available at every price point. Compared to other culturally vibrant city settings, everyday expenses remain reasonable.

Current Rental Pricing for Apartments in Minneapolis

There's a lot to consider as you search for your dream Minneapolis apartment close to your dream job. Check out these top employers and neighborhoods to discover the best in Twin Cities living.

North Loop: Target

Target was once the biggest employer in downtown Minneapolis, and, while that has recently changed, it still hits the bullseye as a central part of the Twin Cities scene. In fact, Target employees have a bit of a reputation in downtown circles, known for their close-knit corporate community and for well-attended events like the annual fall meeting.

Employing over 7,000 professionals, Target's downtown hub maintains a solid skyway presence, with employees from merchandising and sourcing teams often seen at downtown coffee shops or gathering for happy hour. Many commute from the suburbs, but there's something to be said for dodging rush-hour traffic after a long day of meetings.

Target's trendy corporate employees are naturally drawn to the North Loop, which has officially taken over as the chicest spot in the Twin Cities. Also known as the Warehouse District, this bustling neighborhood has re-imagined its industrial architecture. I'm intrigued by all the brick buildings but also in awe of the cultural flair that helps this neighborhood feel fresh.

North Loop apartments near Target feature re-purposed warehouses that are equal parts chic and charming. This neighborhood draws professionals from many top Twin Cities employers, but there's an added perk for Target employees: the North Loop is less than a mile away from the downtown corporate location. This means getting to work on foot in under twenty minutes. Another option? Take the C-Line from the 7th Street & Olson station.

After an easy commute, Target employees head straight for the North Loop's beloved breweries. Also compelling: easy access to the Mississippi Riverfront and its gorgeous trails. For classic summer fun, head to Target Field — home of the Minnesota Twins.

Lowry Hill: U.S. Bancorp

Target may be one of the most recognizable corporate employers in downtown Minneapolis, but U.S. Bancorp is also a downtown fixture, boasting beautiful headquarters along Nicollet Mall. It's impossible to deny this company's local significance — it has the naming rights for U.S. Bank Stadium, after all.

The U.S. Bancorp company culture feels laid-back compared to the neighboring Target Corporation — perhaps a relief for local introverts. As with Target's corporate employees, U.S. Bancorp professionals can often be found wandering the skyway. Also enjoyable: relaxing within the many gathering spaces at U.S. Bancorp Center, which has been named the International Outstanding Building of the Year on multiple occasions.

The HQ's central location is appealing to employees who crave urban digs — but staying downtown certainly isn't necessary. Many gorgeous neighborhoods can be accessed on foot while providing a break from the busy downtown setting.

The perfect middle ground? Lowry Hill apartments near U.S. Bancorp. These offer a quieter retreat that still feels wonderfully cosmopolitan. Located just across the freeway from Loring Park, this gorgeous neighborhood is home to the Walker Art Center and its fascinating sculpture garden. It's impossible to miss the Spoonbridge and Cherry, which captures the city's whimsical spirit.

The Walker may be Lowry Hill's most memorable destination, but there are many other local perks: brunch at The Lowry, ice cream at Sebastian Joe's, and hockey at the Parade Ice Garden.

The journey from Lowry Hill to Nicollet Mall is most enjoyable by bike. I've spent many an afternoon cruising along the Loring Greenway — and I've seen plenty of professionals doing the same. This route is also highly walkable — but if you prefer to skip the windchill and drive during the winter, you can reach downtown in under ten minutes.

Downtown East: Thrivent

As a membership-owned financial services business, Thrivent has a solid reputation in the Twin Cities. This Minneapolis mainstay is frequently highlighted as one of the world's most ethical companies. This focus on ethics has a trickle-down impact on employees, who are thrilled to report excellent work-life balance and an inclusive culture.

Thrivent launched a stunning corporate center in Minneapolis in 2020, situated across the street from The Armory — one of the city's most popular music venues. During breaks, employees can meander along the urban oasis known as The Commons or relax at the nearby Government Center Park.

Functioning a lot like the Main Street of Minneapolis, Nicollet Mall makes for an easy walking commute — especially for Thrivent employees who live in nearby Downtown East. In the winter, locals can skip the cold and meander through the skyway instead.

In the summer, it's fun to extend this half-mile commute and explore the riverfront while gazing at the historic remains of Mill Ruins Park — and at the iconic Stone Arch Bridge. I firmly believe that every Twin Cities resident — especially those living in Downtown East — should also visit the Guthrie Theater at least once. This theatrical wonderland promises a creative escape with its thought-provoking productions.

Larger-scale productions take over U.S. Bank Stadium, where major bands and artists perform — and where the Minnesota Vikings compete on the gridiron each fall. Living in Downtown East apartments near Thrivent means getting in on the most exciting events in Minneapolis — and embracing Minnesota's appealing take on the urban lifestyle.

Bryn Mawr: General Mills

General Mills is a major Twin Cities employer, but its headquarters are not actually located in Minneapolis. Its vast corporate campus has called nearby Golden Valley home since the late 1950s. Thankfully, Golden Valley is an inner-ring suburb, so it's easily accessible from several Minneapolis neighborhoods.

Once a major flour miller, this food company transformed from the St. Anthony-based Washburn Crosby Company to General Mills with a 1928 merger and has since remained one of the most significant employers in the Twin Cities. Employees rave about the welcoming company culture and the many HQ amenities, including an onsite gym, a well-stocked employee store, and even food giveaways.

Bryn Mawr may be quieter than some Minneapolis neighborhoods but it's still close to the action. It's a commuter's paradise, promising easy access to freeways and several Twin Cities hot spots — not just downtown, but also, St. Louis Park's bustling West End.

Commuting is easy but not always necessary, as there's plenty to do in this charming neighborhood. For an outdoorsy escape in the heart of the city, check out the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden — the best birdwatching spot in town and one of my favorite urban escapes. Bryn Mawr Meadows Park is chock-full of athletic activities and offers the added perk of a skyline backdrop.

Getting to work involves a straight shot along 394, which takes Bryn Mawr residents right to the General Mills campus. This journey can also be completed by bike; pedal along the Laurel Avenue Greenbelt Trail Corridor and enjoy the view. Bryn Mawr apartments near General Mills are beautiful, packed with amenities, and wonderfully quiet.

Kenny: Best Buy

Like General Mills, Best Buy has opted for suburban headquarters. Thankfully, Best Buy's inner-ring location makes it possible to live in Minneapolis and work in Richfield. Known as the "urban hometown," Richfield is right by several of Minneapolis' southern neighborhoods — including quieter options that promise respite after a busy day in the office.

Best Buy's corporate culture offers undeniable warmth, emphasizing collaboration and work-life balance. The Geek Squad vibes are strong here, as evidenced by intriguing displays found throughout the HQ hub.

Employees love visiting the onsite Caribou Coffee but also appreciate the cozy meeting and lounge areas. There's even a daycare center, making for easy dropoffs so families can spend more time together after work.

Kenny is a small, but appealing option that is often overlooked in favor of the lake-filled neighborhoods near the Grand Rounds. Kenny may be quieter, but that's exactly what locals find so appealing. This family-friendly enclave centers around the lovely Kenny Park and its many adjacent schools.

Dining and nightlife are definitely understated, but thankfully, it's easy to access the bars and restaurants of Richfield or Windom. There are a few shops along Lyndale, including a liquor store that doubles as a local hangout, complete with a deli, wine bar, and patio. Kenny apartments near Best Buy are pleasant, with many in walking distance of the gorgeous Grass Lake.

A quick seven-minute drive will take employees from Kenny to Richfield's Best Buy headquarters, and, since both Kenny and Richfield are wonderfully cyclist-friendly, it's also possible to commute by bike. Since there's not a lot of shopping in Kenny, a driving commute can sometimes be helpful — it's the perfect chance to stock up on staples at Richfield's many big-box stores.

Living in Employer-Friendly Minneapolis Neighborhoods

Minneapolis proves that work-life balance is achievable. I'm thrilled to report that many successful professionals find time for workplace achievements and recreational fun.

A short commute and beautiful surroundings can make time away from the office feel downright magical — and the right employer will give you maximum opportunities to pack Twin Cities joy into your busy days.

Choose your Minneapolis apartment carefully, and you'll reap the rewards: short commutes, walkable neighborhoods, and remarkable cultural opportunities. Check out the top neighborhoods and rentals to uncover your own personal Minneapolis oasis.