Mankato & Southern MN
Mankato and Southern Minnesota offer a comfortable, community-driven rental market with easy commutes, strong local employers, and more space for the price. From downtown Mankato apartments to quieter neighborhood rentals and nearby towns, it’s a practical choice for renters who want convenience without big-city cost.
Centered around the Minnesota River Valley, the Mankato area blends a college-town feel with a growing regional economy. Renters are drawn to Minnesota State University, major healthcare and manufacturing employers, and a steady stream of new development—while still enjoying parks, trails, and quick access to everyday essentials.
“It’s the kind of place where your commute is short, your weekends are open, and you still have everything you need nearby.”
Neighborhood highlights
Downtown Mankato for walkability, dining, events, and newer apartments
West Mankato for convenient shopping corridors and easy highway access
Hilltop / MSU area for student-friendly rentals and campus proximity
North Mankato for quieter neighborhoods and family-friendly options
Surrounding towns (St. Peter, New Ulm, Waseca, Owatonna, Albert Lea) for more space and smaller-town living with regional access
Real estate vibe
Property Type | Typical Monthly Rent Range | Popular Style |
|---|---|---|
Apartments | $900 – $1,800 | Modern communities, practical layouts, parking-friendly |
Townhomes | $1,300 – $2,300 | Multi-level living, attached garages, suburban comfort |
Single-family rentals | $1,400 – $2,600 | More space, yards, quieter streets |
(Ranges vary by town, school-year demand, and whether utilities/parking are included.)
Nearby facilities
Facility | Description |
|---|---|
Schools & Universities | Minnesota State University, Mankato (MSU), South Central College (regional) |
Hospitals | Mayo Clinic Health System (Mankato), regional clinics and specialty providers |
Shopping | River Hills Mall area, big-box retail corridors, local boutiques downtown |
Dining | Downtown Mankato restaurants, coffee shops, and brewery scene |
Parks & Trails | Minneopa State Park, Minnesota River trails, local parks and outdoor recreation nearby |
Transportation & accessibility
Most residents get around by car, and the region is built for straightforward driving and parking. U.S. Hwy 169 and Hwy 14 connect Mankato to surrounding towns and regional employers. Local transit and campus routes support core areas, while the broader region stays commuter-friendly for renters who work in one town and live in another.
Market snapshot
Average rent range | Studios/1BR: ~$900–$1,500 • 2BR: ~$1,150–$1,900 |
|---|---|
Common lease terms | 12-month leases are standard; student-cycle timing can impact pricing/availability |
Popular Among | Students, healthcare and manufacturing professionals, young families, and remote workers seeking affordability |
