Living Close to the University

Living close to campus offers many financial and lifestyle advantages. You can save money and avoid the frustration associated with a long commute while having the benefits of being located in the heart of the Twin Cities. With a wealth of parks, lakes, and cultural opportunities, Minneapolis and St. Paul provide the rich diversity of a metropolitan area and the small-town feel of local communities and neighborhoods.

• Neighborhoods Close to the University

Rental and Temporary Housing

Rental Experts

Qualified rental experts are available to help prospective renters find what they need. Specialists are also available to link area newcomers to particular communities and diversity resources. Contact RAP to obtain information on the University's contract vendors.

Note: University departments or colleges may fund this service as part of their recruitment costs; new hires should discuss this option with their hiring department or area.

Rental Tips

• Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the Twin Cities area will cost about $775 per month.
• Landlords require a 60-day notice. For example, faculty and staff needing a rental unit in September should begin their searches around July 1.

The Relocation Assistance Program maintains a list of temporary properties that are available for short- or long-term rental. Many of the properties are homes of faculty members who are away on fixed-term assignments (e.g., on sabbatical from September through June).

The Office of Housing and Residential Life also has an off-campus housing search.

University-Owned Rental Housing: Pillsbury Court

Pillsbury Court is reserved for full-time faculty and staff and is the only non-student, University-owned rental housing available. It is located within walking distance of the Minneapolis campus. The complex consists of 48 two-bedroom townhouses, and faculty and staff members may rent for up to two years. New faculty members should apply early as there may be a waiting list. Pets are not allowed. Visit the Office of Housing and Residential Life Web site for Pillsbury Court details and an online application.

Purchasing a Home

The local housing market tends to be relatively stable, with homes appreciating at varying rates. Check with your department for realtor recommendations. If your department is unable to make a referral or if you need lender advice, contact RAP. The University does not offer any type of mortgage assistance.

University Grove

New faculty and staff may be interested in purchasing a home in the University Grove, an architecturally unique neighborhood across from the St. Paul Campus. The 103 University Grove homes are located on land owned by the University of Minnesota.

Commuting to Work in the Metro Area

These are approximate distances and average commuting times, based on rush hour traffic, from some of surrounding areas to the University of Minnesota-East Bank campus, Minneapolis.

Hennepin County

Ramsey County

Surrounding Areas

Additional Resources