7 Reasons to Move to Duluth, MN: Why You’ll Love Living Here

Duluth, Minnesota, combines natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant community. While it is one of the largest cities in the North Star State, Duluth keeps offers a historic small-town charm and plenty of activities and dining experiences. Known for its outdoor activities, scenic surroundings, and friendly atmosphere, Duluth has been attracting more and more people looking for a change of pace or weekend getaway.

If you’re looking at homes for sale in Duluth or are just curious about what the city has to offer, this Redfin guide is for you. To give you a taste of what this city has to offer, read on for 7 reasons to move to Duluth, MN. 

1. Stunning natural beauty

Duluth is known for its breathtaking scenery, featuring the rugged beauty of Lake Superior, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. The city’s 162 parks, such as Canal Park and Enger Park, offer stunning vistas, walking trails, and recreation. Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to explore the great outdoors, with activities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching.

2. Abundant outdoor recreation

Duluth offers an array of outdoor activities for all ages and skill levels. With the presence of Lake Superior, residents can enjoy sailing, kayaking, and fishing in the warmer months. Winter sports enthusiasts can take advantage of skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing at the nearby Spirit Mountain. Additionally, the Superior Hiking Trail and the Duluth Traverse provide miles of trails for hikers and mountain bikers to explore.

For more serious adventurers, Duluth offers convenient access to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. This large natural area spans over one million acres and is a paradise for canoeing, camping, fishing, and more. 

3. Four distinct seasons

Duluth’s climate offers four distinct seasons, allowing residents to experience the beauty of each. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and budding trees, while summer offers warm days perfect for swimming and boating. Fall is marked by vibrant foliage and crisp air, and winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, ideal for winter sports and cozy evenings by the fire. 

Temperatures in Duluth vary widely from season to season, with average summer highs in the 70s to winter lows in the single digits. In fact, Duluth has the second most number of days below freezing of any major city in the contiguous US, behind only International Falls. 

4. Affordable cost of living

A great reason to move to Duluth, MN, is its lower cost of living compared to  other cities in the United States. Housing costs, in particular, are quite low, making the city an attractive option for those looking for a more affordable place to live. The median sale price for a house in Duluth is $279,000, which is far below the national median. Rental living is also more affordable than a majority of the country; the average one-bedroom apartment costs $1,495.

Housing options range from historic homes to modern apartments, with prices that are generally lower than the national average. The city’s relatively low property taxes and utility costs also contribute to its affordability.

5. Strong sense of community

Duluth’s friendly and welcoming atmosphere is one of its most attractive features. The city is home to numerous community events and festivals, such as the Duluth Airshow, Bayfront Blues Festival, and Grandma’s Marathon, which bring residents together to celebrate local culture and traditions. The city’s active arts scene, featuring the Duluth Playhouse and the Tweed Museum of Art, also fosters a strong sense of community.

6. Thriving culinary scene

Duluth’s culinary scene is diverse and growing, offering an array of dining options to suit every taste. The city’s proximity to Lake Superior provides access to fresh seafood, while locally sourced ingredients ensure a farm-to-table experience in many of its restaurants. Duluth is also home to a booming number of craft breweries, such as Bent Paddle Brewing Co. and Canal Park Brewing Company, offering a vibrant local beer scene for residents and visitors alike.

7. Rich history

Duluth has a long and storied maritime history, dating back to the days of fur trading and the development of the Great Lakes shipping industry. The city’s Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center and the SS William A. Irvin Ore Boat Museum offer fascinating insights into the region’s past, while the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge stands as a testament to Duluth’s ongoing connection to the water.

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