Relocating to the Twin Cities, MN?
Planning a move to Minnesota? Whether you're relocating from across the country or just a few states away, I'll help you choose the right Twin Cities South Metro suburb, navigate the home buying process remotely, and make your transition as smooth as possible.
why work with me
your south metro real estate agent
Relocating to the Twin Cities from out of state? You're about to discover one of the most livable, family-friendly metros in the country — and as a Twin Cities relocation Realtor who specializes in the south metro suburbs, I help newcomers move with confidence, even from across the country. Below you'll find why families love it here, an honest take on the winters, how I help you relocate from afar, and a guide to choosing the right south metro city — plus my free Moving to Minnesota guide.
Why relocate to the Twin Cities south metro?
First, a quick lay of the land: Minneapolis and St. Paul are the "Twin Cities," and the south metro is the band of family-friendly suburbs about 20–30 minutes south of both downtowns. It's where people come for more space, more value, and a genuine community feel without giving up big-city jobs and amenities. Here's what newcomers tend to fall for:
A strong job market. Minnesota is home to more than a dozen Fortune 500 companies and one of the highest concentrations of major headquarters in the country — great for landing or relocating a career.
Top-rated schools. Minnesota consistently ranks among the best states for education, and the south metro's districts (196, 194, and 719) are a big reason families choose these suburbs.
Lake-and-outdoors living. This is the land of 10,000 lakes; summers revolve around the water, the patio, and the trails, and the south metro is full of lakes, regional parks, and bike paths.
Real value. Compared with the coasts, your dollar goes much further here — more house, great schools, and a strong economy for the money.
Four real seasons and a welcoming community. Friendly, family-oriented towns, world-class healthcare within reach (including the renowned Mayo Clinic a short drive south), and MSP airport close by for easy trips back home.
Your Minnesota Relocation Realtor
A long-distance move has moving parts a local move doesn't, and I've got them covered. If you’re making a strategic, short, trip to house hunt, I’ll make sure we optimize your time to not just see many homes, but the RIGHT homes. If you’re making decisions remotely, I'll be your eyes on the ground — touring homes for you on video, giving you the straight story on neighborhoods, schools, and commute times, and helping you narrow in on the right city before you ever visit. I'll connect you with trusted lenders and services, coordinate the logistics so your move lines up, and once you're here, help you start to feel like a local. You won't be doing this alone.
What are Minnesota winters really like?
Let's answer the question every newcomer asks: yes, Minnesota gets winter — and it's not the deal-breaker you might fear. Minnesotans don't hibernate. We ski, skate, ice-fish, and lean into the cozy season, and the cities are very good at keeping life moving when it snows. The payoff is summers that are absolutely glorious — long, green, and spent on the water. Four real seasons, each with its own thing to love. I'll always give you the honest version of what to expect, no sugarcoating.
Kind Words
"by FAR the best experience!" “This is our fourth home buying experience all in different states and this has been by FAR the best experience. Leslie truly had our interest in mind. She made sure we were going to be in a house we loved and went the extra mile to check the material condition of the home, not just cosmetic appeal. A true professional that made finding and purchasing a home from several states away as smooth and easy as possible.”
"You will be her priority." Leslie is the best realtor experience I've ever had. She is professional and knowledgeable of the area. We had a large area we were willing to live with specific requirements and she was able to narrow in down in a very short period of time. We moved from cross-country and her use of technology to share and collaborate with us was top notch. It's hard to put into words how much I appreciate our experience with Leslie; she really raised the bar and got things together under a challenging timeline. Her attention to detail and the consistent advice and follow through surprised me. I wouldn’t have found the house I ended up buying if it wasn't for her inputs and guidance. You will be her priority. Thank you so much Leslie!
Start your Relocation with Confidence
Moving to the Twin Cities? Your guide to the south metro is here! Determine which cities could be the best fit and learn the go-to spots from a local.
I'll help you find the community that truly feels like home.
Download the free Relocation Guide below!
choosing the right south metro suburb
Every south metro city has its own personality. Here's the feel of each, with a full relocation guide to all six:
Relocating to Lakeville → quintessential Minnesota: a walkable, historic downtown and a true family town
Relocating to Apple Valley → convenient shopping and dining, with a love for local businesses and tree-lined, established neighborhoods
Relocating to Eagan → corporate-relocation central — big-box convenience, minutes from the airport
Relocating to Rosemount → small-town feel now, fast-growing future
Relocating to Prior Lake → lake life: vacation where you live
Relocating to Elko New Market → small-town country and wide-open acreage
moving to the twin cities — frequently asked questions
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Yes — Minnesota is known for top-rated schools, a strong economy, abundant lakes and outdoor recreation, safe and welcoming communities, and four real seasons.
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The south metro suburbs are perennial favorites — Lakeville, Apple Valley, Eagan, Rosemount, Prior Lake, and Elko New Market — each with strong schools, parks, and its own character.
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They're real, but very manageable. Minnesotans embrace winter with skiing, skating, and ice fishing, the cities handle snow well, and the glorious summers more than make up for it.
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Compared with coastal metros, the Twin Cities offers strong value — more house and great schools for the money, with a healthy local economy.
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Strong — the metro is home to more than a dozen Fortune 500 companies and one of the highest concentrations of major corporate headquarters in the country.
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With a local relocation Realtor as your eyes on the ground: video home tours, honest neighborhood and school guidance, and full coordination of a long-distance move.
Ready to Make Minnesota Home?
Whether you're relocating for work, family, or a fresh start, having a local expert by your side makes all the difference. Let's create a personalized relocation plan so you can confidently choose the right community, find the right home, and enjoy a seamless move to the Twin Cities.