Bloomington, Minnesota, is a lively suburb just outside of Minneapolis. Known for its friendly community and prime location, this city offers a comfortable place to live and a strong economy that supports both residents and businesses. Bloomington stands out as a key economic center, housing the headquarters of big companies like HealthPartners and Toro, which helps the city maintain a higher job-per-capita ratio compared to neighboring areas like Minneapolis and Saint Paul.

Bloomington’s Strong Economic Base

The economy in Bloomington is diverse, with industries ranging from healthcare and retail to manufacturing. This diversity ensures that residents have plenty of job opportunities. Major companies headquartered here play a significant role in keeping the job market strong, making Bloomington a great place for both job seekers and professionals looking to advance their careers.

Community and Public Amenities Enhance Quality of Life

Bloomington isn’t just about work; it’s also a community-focused city with excellent public amenities. The city is home to the famous Mall of America, which not only attracts tourists but also creates numerous retail jobs for locals. In addition, Bloomington invests in its public spaces, like the Dred Scott Playfield, which recently added modern sports facilities. These amenities make the city a welcoming place for families, professionals, and visitors alike.

Safety in Bloomington: A Mixed Picture

Safety in Bloomington varies depending on the area. While some parts of the city, particularly the northeast, experience higher crime rates, the southwest and southeast areas are much safer and preferred by many residents. On average, Bloomington’s crime rates are higher than the national average, with violent crimes such as assault and robbery being a concern in some neighborhoods. However, the presence of high-traffic areas like shopping centers can sometimes inflate these statistics, making the city seem less safe than it is in residential zones.

Exploring Bloomington’s Neighborhoods: Where to Live

Bloomington offers a wide range of neighborhoods, each with its unique character. The southwestern part of the city is especially desirable, known for its higher property values and lower crime rates, making it ideal for families and professionals. On the other hand, East Bloomington provides more affordable housing, with median home prices below the national average. This area attracts residents looking for cost-effective living options, though neighborhood quality can vary. Despite this, many parts of East Bloomington actively maintain a high standard of living, offering a good balance of affordability and quality.

In-Depth Neighborhood Profiles

Bloomington’s neighborhoods, such as City Center and Bryant Park, offer a variety of housing and community options. City Center is known for its blend of small to medium-sized homes, with many built between 1940 and 1999, giving it a mature, established feel. With a median home price of $368,092, it’s more expensive than over half the neighborhoods in Minnesota but boasts a low vacancy rate, indicating strong demand. Bryant Park, slightly more affordable with a median home price of $319,552, is appreciated for its residential charm and accessibility, with a significant number of residents using public transportation.

West Bloomington: A Suburban Gem

West Bloomington is a sought-after area known for its suburban appeal. This neighborhood features a range of medium to large single-family homes and townhouses, mostly owner-occupied. The real estate market here is competitive, with homes typically selling quickly and at prices reflecting the area’s desirability. The low vacancy rate of 2.8% highlights the demand for housing in this part of the city, which combines modern living with a community-oriented atmosphere.

South Loop District: The Future of Bloomington

The South Loop District is transforming a suburban area to a more urbanized district. This area will become the center of Bloomington’s growth over the next 40 years, focusing on mixed land use, sustainable development, and improved public transportation. Located near key transportation hubs like MSP Airport and the Hiawatha Light Rail, the South Loop District is becoming a prime area for new developments. The Carbon31 project, for instance, is adding over 400 high-end residential units and retail spaces, reflecting the district’s shift towards a vibrant, urban community.

Normandale Area: A Hub for Education and Recreation

The Normandale area is an important part of Bloomington, known for its educational and recreational offerings. At the heart of this neighborhood is Normandale Community College, which serves over 14,000 students each year. The college is known for its affordability and support services, making it an excellent choice for students looking to further their education. Nearby, the Normandale Lake District offers outdoor activities and green spaces, contributing to the area’s appeal as a place where education and recreation go hand in hand.

Transportation: Getting Around Bloomington

Bloomington is well-connected by a network of buses and light rail services, making it easy to get around. The Metro Transit’s Blue Line provides direct service between downtown Minneapolis and Bloomington, offering a quick and convenient option for commuters. The city is also investing in better pedestrian and cycling paths to promote a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. If you’re planning to move to Bloomington, professional movers can help make the transition smoother, taking advantage of the city’s efficient transportation system.

Housing Market: Trends and Opportunities

The housing market in Bloomington is active and diverse, with median home prices around $350,000 as of early 2024. The market is balanced, with homes typically staying on the market for about 30 days. This provides both buyers and sellers with fair opportunities to negotiate. Bloomington also supports affordable housing through various programs, helping low-to-moderate-income families transition from renting to homeownership, and ensuring long-term affordability.

Educational Opportunities: A Focus on Inclusivity

Bloomington is committed to providing excellent educational opportunities for all ages. Bloomington Public Schools focuses on educational equity, offering resources tailored to meet the needs of every student. For adults, Metro South Adult Basic Education provides essential services like GED preparation and ESL classes, helping residents gain the skills they need for career advancement. These programs reflect the city’s dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive educational environment for everyone.

Employment in Bloomington: A Diverse Job Market

The job market in Bloomington is robust, with opportunities across various sectors, including retail, healthcare, and administrative services. The city’s Parks and Recreation Department also offers seasonal and part-time jobs, which are great for those looking for flexible work arrangements. These diverse job opportunities not only strengthen the local economy but also contribute to a vibrant and engaged community.