Convenient for urban renters, Minneapolis has an enormous and efficient public transportation system that delivers millions of Minneapolitans to their offices and homes every year. The METRO system includes dozens of bus lines and two light rail lines: the Blue Line, which connects downtown to the Mall of America, and the Green Line, which serves downtown, the University of Minnesota campus, and University Avenue. Running every 10 minutes all day, and every 30 to 60 minutes all night, they’re an ideal mode of transportation for the city’s renters — and they mean you don’t have to rack up the expense and inconvenience of owning a car. There are dozens of apartments in Minneapolis that are only a short walk from a light rail station. Here are some of the best.
7West
7West is a gorgeous, modern apartment building just across the Mississippi River from the University of Minnesota and steps away from the West Bank station. Each apartment has hardwood floors, in-unit laundry, modern appliances, granite countertops, and tall ceilings, and the building itself offers housekeeping and a dry cleaning service, a rooftop terrace, a pool, grocery delivery, and Amazon’s new locker system for deliveries. Plus, it’s pet friendly, so you can bring your furry roommate (or two) with you.
The Pavilion on Berry
Near the Prospect Park and University Ave. & Malcolm Ave. SE stations, the Pavilion on Berry is a great choice for UM students. The ride to campus would take just minutes, and the large layouts with by-room pricing mean you can live with your best friends without having to share a lease. The Pavilion offers a computer lab — so you don’t have to stay on campus until the wee hours to get your homework done — a fitness center (with tanning beds), game room, and theater. And with cable and internet included, you’ll only have to remember to pay one bill each month.
222 Hennepin
Right in the heart of central Minneapolis, this apartment building offers many conveniences, including having a light rail station (Hennepin Ave. & Washington Ave. N) and a Whole Foods on the corner just below. Although the rents are on the higher end of the spectrum (about $1,300 for a studio, and $2,100+ for a two-bedroom), the amenities more than make up for the investment. It’s a pet-friendly building with a private off-leash dog area, a bocce ball court, outdoor fireplace, rooftop patio, zen courtyards, guest rooms, a wine room, and concierge service. In each unit, you can expect gorgeous espresso-colored wood cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, tile showers, a washer and dryer, and either a skyline or river view. And for eco-minded renters, the building is also LEED Silver certified and has Energy Star appliances.
The Nic on 5th
With a light rail station directly outside and a connection to the Skyway, you can’t beat the convenience of this modern complex. The Nic is also a pet-friendly community with guest suites, an outdoor lounge (complete with gourmet kitchen), vaulted ceilings with floor-to-ceiling windows, a zen garden, cabanas, and a Jacuzzi. Some units have stark-white kitchens and bathrooms, and others have rich espresso cabinetry and marble countertops, adding in a bit of unique personality that renters often miss. Every unit, nonetheless, is loaded with luxury.
N 5th Street
The view of the city skyline from this building’s rooftop pool is incredible. Less than a block from the Target Field station (and Target Field itself), this unit is in an ideal location to stay plugged into the local entertainment scene. Minneapolis’ many pet parents will feel right at home here, with a pet park and dog grooming area on-site. The walk-in closets, vaulted ceilings, spacious master bath, and huge windows make every apartment feel roomy, but if you need more space, you can head to the rooftop patio for a fire or a swim. And with a one-bedroom running only $1,585 per month, renting here is an incredible value.
