10 Secretly Amazing Places to Retire in Minnesota

Retirement in the Land of 1000 Lakes involves being surrounded by the breathtaking splendor of nature all year round. Minnesota offers spectacular countryside for outdoorsy adults looking to engage with nature as well as intriguing urban centers.

Although cities like Minnetonka and Edina are popular locations to retire, we have found the best places that are up and coming. Anywhere from Albert Lea in southern Minnesota, all the way up to Bemidji.

Whether you’re looking to retire soon or in a few years, here are the best-kept secret places to retire in the North Star State.

Why Retire in Minnesota?

There are several options available to retirees for how to spend their time. Should you spend your golden years in the mountains or by the sea? Do you enjoy playing pickleball, hiking, fishing, golf, or just relaxing at a brewery?

The good news is that Minnesota routinely rates itself as one of the top retirement destinations due to its strong ratings in terms of cost-effectiveness, low crime, health and well-being, and diversity in culture.

When it comes time to choose a place to retire, Minnesota offers a wide range of options. One of the biggest suburbs of Minneapolis is Coon Rapids, which has a huge number of senior-focused communities that offer a variety of recreational opportunities and services.

The Best Places to Retire in Minnesota

1. Albert Lea

On the banks of Albert Lea Lake, there lies a lovely village called Albert Lea. Albert Lea offers retirees the opportunity to live on a lakeside property for a reasonable price. The Myre Big Island State Park is a great place to spend your leisurely afternoons experiencing a few of the most amazing landscapes that Minnesota has to offer.

Plus, there’s a hospital within one mile of Albert Lea, making it a great place for the elderly.

2. Hibbing

In Minnesota’s Iron Range, the lovely town of Hibbing is ideal for busy adults seeking a peaceful rural retirement. Attractive parks and welcoming pathways can be found in Hibbing, where you may discover charming lakes as well as some of the most spectacular scenery in the Midwest.

When you have access to so much hiking, riding, and boating, maintaining your well-being is simple.

3. Austin

As a greeting to Austin, MN, Buffy the Cow demonstrates that this lively community can also maintain its weirdness. Retirement in Austin will allow you to live a vibrant yet tranquil life in this country setting.

While you’re out on a hike at East Side Lake, you can engage in some leisurely riverside entertainment and learn about some of the cultures of the region at one of the nearby museums.

4. Brainerd

The nicest lakeside lifestyle in Minnesota is just a retirement away in Brainerd. Active individuals who wish to relax on the water, spend afternoons on the boat, or just get away from the bustle of Minneapolis will love this green suburb.

You’ll like retirement in Brainerd if you enjoy relaxing activities like hiking, fishing, and swimming.

5. Fairmont

For retirees who wish to spend their golden years getting back in touch with nature, Fairmont is the ideal Minnesota town. You can take pleasure in water activities like canoeing and swimming because of the many local lakes.

You can maintain your health while taking in breathtaking views on paths that run through a few of the most vibrant autumnal colors in the nation.

6. Bemidji

You’ll adore retired life in Bemidji, MN if enjoying your retirement roaming the Headwaters sounds like something you desire. People with hobbies can find something to do in this lovely town on the shores of the Mississippi River at any time of year.

Your grandkids will love skiing, sledding, and ice skating once winter comes around. Hiking, riding, swimming, and kayaking are all essential throughout the few warm months that Minnesota has.

7. Worthington

Just because you’re retiring doesn’t mean you have to sit around all day. If you live in Worthington, MN, there’s no shortage of things to do! Worthington is right on Lake Okabena, which is wildly popular for windsurfing.

The city has a thriving retail industry, some of the greatest shopping in the region, and more than 30 restaurants, many of which serve cuisine from a variety of cultures. With a population of around 13,000, you’ll surely feel part of this small town.

On more relaxing days, there are local museums that give you the chance to immerse yourself in local culture! Worthington is a terrific area to live in thanks to its diversified population, first-rate schools and medical facilities, 17 places of worship, and a wealth of outdoor leisure and recreational opportunities.

8. Fergus Falls

This enjoyable area invites retirees who want to take advantage of a bustling small town with a genuine local feel. Along with perusing the quaint stores in Downtown Fergus Falls, you are able to relish in the great outdoors by going on a hike or renting a boat on one of the many nearby lakes.

The mill, which is a wonderful representation of the region’s agricultural past, has been given new life as a popular tourist destination today. You can visit the Phelps Mill Festival, where there will be a wide variety of activities on-site with food and entertainment that will excite everyone who comes to learn more about the mill’s past and how it functioned in its glory.

Since its founding in 1977, the Lake Region Arts Council is a favorite among retirees in Fergus Fall. They encourage incredible chances for anyone to access the arts, such as two galleries, funding programs, and courses. The Kaddatz Art Gallery exhibits the creations of Minnesota’s west-central region’s artists. Their primary display, which changes every few months, is free to enter.

9. Willmar

The county seat of Kandiyohi County is Willmar, which is 95 miles west of the Twin Cities. Willmar, which has a population of little over 20,000, provides several of the conveniences of a bigger city while maintaining the advantages of a smaller town.

A regional hub for commerce, technology, and healthcare is located here. It is a multicultural neighborhood encircled by lush farmland, picturesque lakes, and greenery. Retired individuals can participate in a variety of things to do in Willmar, MN.

There are many state parks and hiking trails, in addition to an ecological education center, if you’ve been looking for adventures in the outdoors. If spending time indoors appeals to you more, Willmar also happens to be home to the Foxhole Brewery and the Glacial Ridge Winery.

You are also able to visit The Barn Theatre to see a performance.

10. New Ulm

New Ulm, MN, has all you need to have a happy and active retirement, whether you decide to enjoy the warmer months on the Cottonwood River or the winters in the icy Flandrau State Park.

This city honors the rich German heritage of New Ulm with historical tours, celebrations, and eateries. The people of New Ulm have so much to choose from! With three outstanding K–12 educational systems, nationally acclaimed medical centers, and community-wide health programs.

Here you’ll also find an active social calendar and more parks per person than most urban areas. New Ulm is committed to giving its residents an excellent standard of life. Additionally, there are fantastic dining options, shops, festivals, shows, and more!

Summary of the Best Places to Retire in Minnesota