Money's Best Cities Include Five in Minnesota, One in Wisconsin

You've got the Vikings versus the Packers.  You have the Timberwolves versus the Bucks.  And, occasionally you have an interleague game pitting the Twins against the Brewers.  If the results of those battles have frustrated you over the years, hang your hat on this one.  When it comes to best places to live (according to Money Magazine), Minnesota wins 5 to 1.

In its annual list of 100 "Best Places to Live,"  Eden Prairie (3), Woodbury (11), Eagan (14), Lakeville (19), and Maple Grove (22) make the cut.  Only Waukesha (99) was named from Wisconsin.  Carmel, Indiana was named number one.

Eden Prairie topped the list in 2010.  In 2012, Money said "not much has changed," calling that "a good thing."  The magazine cites a "heady combination of terrific employment prospects, natural beauty, and a well-educated workforce" among the reasons for choosing Eden Prairie.  Negatives mentioned include long, cold winters and lack of a substantial downtown.

Woodbury's Bielenberg Sports Complex and numerous health care businesses helped it get named 11th.  Money also cited the city's schools as a reason.

Thomson Reuters, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Coca-Cola helped push Eagan up to number 14.  Lakes, parks, and the Cascade Bay outdoor water park also contributed to teh ranking.

Schools helped make Lakeville 19 on the Money list.  The magazine noted all of the city's public schools beat state averages.  It also recognized recreation opportunities like those found at Marion Lake and Orchard Lake.

In Maple Grove, the Shoppes at Arbor Lakes and other retail location contributed to its 22nd ranking.  Money also noted "plenty of jobs in town."

To see the complete list, click here.