When people think of St. Paul, they often picture its historic charm and bustling downtown, but the true essence of living in St. Paul extends beyond the city center. The suburbs of St. Paul offer diverse residential areas with a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle while still providing easy access to the city’s cultural and recreational amenities. These suburbs are spread across the metropolitan area, each with its own unique character and appeal.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore some of the most notable St. Paul suburbs—from quaint small-town vibes to thriving communities—highlighting key aspects such as population, average rent, and what makes each area stand out. Whether you’re searching for the perfect apartment in St. Paul or curious about the different St. Paul neighborhoods, let’s discover the best parts of St. Paul to call home.
Cost of living in St. Paul
Before we dive into the top St. Paul suburbs, let’s cover how much it costs to live in the area. The overall cost of living in St. Paul is 6% lower than the national average, making it a relatively affordable option compared to other major cities in the U.S. Housing is a major factor, with the median sale price for a home in St. Paul at $284,950, well below the national average of $435,051. Rent follows this trend, with the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in St. Paul at $1,292, compared to the national average of $1,534.
Other living expenses show a mix of affordability and slight increases. Utilities in St. Paul are 4% less than the national average, transportation costs are 3% lower, while groceries are 4% higher. Healthcare costs align with the national average, offering stability in this category.
St. Paul’s lower cost of living, particularly in housing, makes it an attractive choice for those seeking a balance between affordability and access to urban amenities. Here, we’ll explore a range of top suburbs, offering various lifestyle and housing opportunities to fit different budgets and preferences.
1. Woodbury
Known for: Upscale developments, excellent schools, and vibrant community
Woodbury is one of the most sought-after suburbs near St. Paul, known for its upscale housing developments and abundant green spaces. The area boasts a variety of shopping and dining options, including Woodbury Lakes, a premier retail center. Woodbury also has a strong emphasis on outdoor recreation, with miles of walking and biking trails, as well as community parks.
Population: 77,000
Median home sale price: $470,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,664
Transportation scores: Walk Score 20, Bike Score 36
Apartments for rent in Woodbury | Houses for rent in Woodbury | Homes for sale in Woodbury
2. Roseville
Known for: Central location, parks, and shopping amenities
Located just north of St. Paul, Roseville offers a central location with easy access to both St. Paul and Minneapolis. Known for its abundance of parks and recreational facilities, including the Harriet Alexander Nature Center, Roseville is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities. The area also features Rosedale Center, one of the largest shopping malls in the Twin Cities metro area.
Population: 36,000
Median home sale price: $377,500
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,232
Transportation scores: Walk Score 35, Bike Score 47, Transit Score 31
Apartments for rent in Roseville | Houses for rent in Roseville | Homes for sale in Roseville
3. Maplewood
Known for: Affordable housing and proximity to nature
Maplewood is a suburban gem located just east of St. Paul, offering a mix of affordable housing and natural beauty. The area is home to Maplewood Mall and several parks, including the expansive Battle Creek Regional Park, which features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a water park. Maplewood’s convenient location and range of amenities make it an excellent choice for those seeking suburban living.
Population: 42,000
Median home sale price: $322,000
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,373
Transportation scores: Walk Score 24, Bike Score 39, Transit Score 31
Apartments for rent in Maplewood | Houses for rent in Maplewood | Homes for sale in Maplewood
4. Eagan
Known for: Friendly neighborhoods and recreational facilities
Eagan is a thriving suburb located south of St. Paul, offering a balance of suburban charm and modern amenities. The city is known for its well-maintained parks, including Lebanon Hills Regional Park, which offers hiking, fishing, and camping. Eagan also features a variety of shopping and dining options, as well as proximity to major highways for easy commuting.
Population: 70,000
Median home sale price: $358,450
Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,795
Transportation scores: Walk Score 23, Bike Score 37, Transit Score 18
Apartments for rent in Eagan | Houses for rent in Eagan | Homes for sale in Eagan
5. Mendota Heights
Known for: Quiet, upscale living and proximity to St. Paul
Mendota Heights is an upscale suburb located just minutes from downtown St. Paul. Known for its spacious homes and peaceful atmosphere, Mendota Heights provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The area features beautiful parks, including Lilydale Regional Park, and offers easy access to the Mississippi River for outdoor activities.
Population: 12,000
Median home sale price: $545,500
Transportation scores: Walk Score 18, Bike Score 32
Apartments for rent in Mendota Heights | Houses for rent in Mendota Heights | Homes for sale in Mendota Heights
Methodology: The suburbs included in this list were selected based on their overall popularity, determined by search trends and housing demand in the St. Paul area. Average rent and home sale price data were sourced from Redfin and Rent.com as of December 2024. Transportation data, including Walk Scores, Bike Scores, and Transit Scores, was sourced from Walk Score.