The hilly port city of Duluth, Minnesota, has been called “The Air-Conditioned City” because of cooling easterly winds that come from Lake Superior in the summer. First settled in 1856, Duluth today covers 80.1 square miles, and has a median age of 33.7 (2022). It’s the major regional center for retail, healthcare, higher education, and business services.

Eden Prairie, Minnesota, has long been regarded as an excellent place to live and work. It’s frequently included in “Best Places to Live” lists by Money magazine. Established in 1858 and now covering 35.2 square miles, Eden Prairie has a median age of 40.2 (2022). It’s home to many businesses that specialize in healthcare, communications, logistics/distribution, industrial equipment, information technology, and retail and wholesale trade.

Minneapolis, Minnesota, borders the state capital of St. Paul. Both cities share many political, educational, and cultural institutions, which is why they’re nicknamed “Twin Cities.” Yet, Minneapolis has its own unique features: It’s the state’s largest city, and is home to 13 lakes, wetlands, creeks, waterfalls, and the Mississippi River. Founded in 1867, Minneapolis lies on a relatively level plain across 57.5 square miles. Its median age is 32.3 (2022). Trade, transportation, utilities, education, health services, professional and business services are its main economic drivers.

Nestled in a valley on the Zumbro River’s south fork in southeast Minnesota is the city of Rochester. Home to the renowned Mayo Clinic, Rochester is often called “Med City” as a result. The city was founded in 1854, and today covers 55.8 square miles and has a median age of 35.9 (2022). While healthcare dominates Rochester’s economy, agriculture plays an important role, along with food processing and dairy production.