Moving to Minneapolis is an exciting decision, especially for families looking for safe, vibrant communities with excellent schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities. Whether you’re relocating from another state or just moving within the city, choosing the right neighborhood is essential for ensuring a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best Minneapolis neighborhoods for families in 2025, highlighting their schools, safety, recreational options, and overall livability.
Linden Hills – A Charming, Family-Centric Community
Linden Hills is a top choice for families thanks to its safe streets, walkable areas, and proximity to top-rated schools. Located between Lake Harriet and Bde Maka Ska, this neighborhood offers a mix of modern and historic homes, creating a picturesque environment perfect for raising kids.
Why Families Love Linden Hills
✅ Great Schools – The neighborhood is served by top public and private schools, including Southwest High School, ranked among the best in Minnesota.
✅ Outdoor Fun – Families can enjoy walking and biking trails around the lakes, as well as Linden Hills Park, which has playgrounds, tennis courts, and picnic areas.
✅ Local Shops & Cafés – The community features family-friendly restaurants, bookstores, and coffee shops, making it easy to spend a relaxing afternoon close to home.
Edina – A Suburban Feel with City Convenience
Edina consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in Minnesota, especially for families. Though technically a suburb, it offers easy access to downtown Minneapolis while providing a quieter, more residential atmosphere.
Why Families Love Edina
✅ Top-Rated Schools – Edina High School and its feeder elementary and middle schools are known for academic excellence.
✅ Shopping & Dining – Families love the Galleria and Southdale Center, which offer a mix of local and national stores.
✅ Recreation – From the Edina Aquatic Center to numerous parks, there’s always something fun to do with kids.
Families moving from other cities often rely on Minneapolis movers to ensure a smooth transition to Edina’s welcoming environment.
Fulton – A Quiet Yet Connected Community
Fulton is a hidden gem for families who want a balance between urban convenience and a small-town feel. It’s home to Minnehaha Creek, a beautiful area for outdoor activities, and has strong community involvement, making it a fantastic place to raise children.
Why Families Love Fulton
✅ Top Schools – Lake Harriet Community School is a popular choice for parents.
✅ Safety – Fulton is one of the safest neighborhoods in Minneapolis.
✅ Outdoor Activities – Families can explore Pershing Park or bike along the scenic Minnehaha Parkway trails.
Southwest Minneapolis – A Blend of Nature & City Life
Southwest Minneapolis is a collection of family-friendly neighborhoods like Armatage, Kenny, and Lynnhurst, all offering excellent schools, lush parks, and a variety of local businesses.
Why Families Love Southwest Minneapolis
✅ Great School Districts – Southwest Minneapolis schools, including Anthony Middle School and Armitage Montessori, offer strong educational programs.
✅ Lakes & Parks – The neighborhood is near Lake Harriet and Lake Nokomis, providing endless outdoor recreation.
✅ Community Feel – With frequent neighborhood events and farmers’ markets, families can easily connect with their community.
When moving to Southwest Minneapolis, many families use commercial moving companies MN to help transport belongings efficiently, especially if they have large furniture or office-related equipment.
Macalester-Groveland – A Haven for Education & Culture
Macalester-Groveland, often called Mac-Groveland, is known for its strong sense of community, tree-lined streets, and excellent educational institutions. This neighborhood is home to Macalester College, which adds a unique, intellectual vibe.
Why Families Love Mac-Groveland
✅ Education-Focused – In addition to top public schools, families can access excellent private schools like Cretin-Derham Hall.
✅ Cultural Scene – With local bookshops, cafés, and music venues, there’s always something happening.
✅ Parks & Green Spaces – Families can explore Groveland Park or take a stroll along the scenic Mississippi River Boulevard.
Highland Park – The Best of Urban & Suburban Living
Located along the Mississippi River, Highland Park is a family-friendly neighborhood with a suburban feel, yet it’s close to downtown St. Paul and Minneapolis.
Why Families Love Highland Park
✅ Top Schools – Highland Park Senior High is one of the best-rated schools in the Twin Cities.
✅ Recreational Activities – The Highland National Golf Course and Hidden Falls Regional Park provide plenty of outdoor fun.
✅ Convenient Shopping – The neighborhood has several shopping centers, including Highland Village, with local boutiques and restaurants.
St. Louis Park – A Thriving Suburb with Minneapolis Access
Just minutes from downtown, St. Louis Park is perfect for families who want a safe, suburban environment with quick access to city amenities.
Why Families Love St. Louis Park
✅ Highly Rated Schools – The St. Louis Park School District is known for its strong academic programs.
✅ Parks & Playgrounds – Families enjoy spending time at Wolfe Park and the Westwood Hills Nature Center.
✅ Affordable Homes – Compared to other nearby suburbs, St. Louis Park offers relatively affordable housing.
Moving to St. Louis Park? Many residents trust Minneapolis movers to handle their relocation smoothly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right neighborhood is one of the most important decisions for families moving to Minneapolis. Whether you prefer the urban charm of Linden Hills, the suburban comfort of Edina, or the community-driven feel of Mac-Groveland, there’s a perfect place for every family in the Twin Cities.
Before making a move, consider touring these neighborhoods, checking out schools, and exploring local parks to find the best fit for your family’s needs. When you’re ready, working with reliable Minneapolis movers or commercial moving companies MN can make the transition effortless.
By: Chris Bates
