The Honest Reality of Living in Bloomington, Minnesota
About this video
Thinking about living in Bloomington, Minnesota? Here’s the honest reality most people don’t talk about. In this video, we break down what it’s really like to live in Bloomington — including the pros, cons, home prices, and the key differences between East vs. West Bloomington. You’ll learn why so many buyers choose this Twin Cities suburb, what makes it unique beyond the Mall of America, and whether it’s the right fit for your lifestyle. If you’re moving to the Twin Cities, this guide will help you decide if Bloomington is the right place to call home.
Key takeaways
- Bloomington is one of Minnesota's largest cities, about 10 miles south of downtown Minneapolis, with I-35W through the middle and I-494 along the north. Many homes are within about 10 minutes of MSP Airport.
- It's home to the Mall of America (more than 520 stores, with an amusement park and aquarium) and a large job base along the I-494 corridor.
- About a third of Bloomington is parkland or open space, including the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge along the river, Hyland Lake Park Reserve and Hyland Hills ski area.
- West Bloomington has larger single-family homes and a quieter feel, with a median around $390,000. East Bloomington has more post-war houses, townhomes and condos, with a median around $325,000 and quicker access to retail and freeways.
- Most homes were built from the 1950s to the 1970s on established, tree-lined streets, so check the roof, furnace, electrical and plumbing. New construction is limited to small infill pockets.
- Bloomington suits frequent travelers and people who want metro access for less than Edina or Eden Prairie. It doesn't have a small historic main street, and I-494 eastbound traffic is a daily reality.
Questions this video answers
What's the difference between East and West Bloomington?
West Bloomington generally has larger single-family homes and higher prices (a median around $390,000 in the video); East Bloomington has more affordable post-war homes, townhomes and condos (around $325,000) and is closer to the mall, airport and freeways.
How close is Bloomington to the airport?
Very close: many Bloomington homes are within about 10 minutes of MSP Airport.
Read more: Bloomington to MSP Airport · Bloomington vs. Richfield
Notes written by Huerkamp Home Group from this video. Figures are as stated in the video on April 11, 2026; check the current numbers in our market reports.
