Life in Minnesota: Work, Live, Belong

Welcome to the University of Minnesota Medical School. Joining our faculty means becoming part of a premier academic health center spanning two distinct campuses—Twin Cities and Duluth—and an interconnected clinical network across the state.

Whether you are relocating from across the country or transitioning into a new role within the region, Minnesota offers an unparalleled setting to build an impactful career in medical education, biomedical research, and patient care while enjoying a vibrant, fulfilling lifestyle.

Exceptional Purchasing Power & Economic Resilience

The Twin Cities metro area and greater Minnesota offer the cultural and economic vitality of major metropolitan regions paired with Midwestern stability and affordability.

Thriving Local Economy

Home to 15 Fortune 500 headquarters (including 3M, Medtronic, Target, and UnitedHealth Group) and a dense health-tech innovation sector, the region offers strong economic resilience and outstanding opportunities for dual-career families.

Housing Options for Every Lifestyle

Nationally competitive academic and clinical salaries go further here. Whether you prefer historic urban neighborhoods, modern downtown living, family-friendly suburbs, or serene lakefront properties, you'll find housing costs well below major coastal markets.

Top-Tier Education

Minnesota consistently ranks among the nation’s top states for K-12 public education. Faculty families benefit from highly regarded school districts, robust early childhood education (0–5) programs, and excellent private schooling options.

A Renowned Outdoor & Active Culture

Minneapolis is widely recognized for having one of the best park systems in the nation. Across the state, an active outdoor lifestyle is woven into everyday life.

Urban Lakes & Greenways

Enjoy immediate access to connected parkways, lakes, and rivers right in the heart of the metro area.

Active Infrastructure

Take advantage of hundreds of miles of paved biking and running trails, including the Midtown Greenway—an urban "bicycle freeway"—as well as extensive cross-country skiing networks in winter.

Four-Season Outdoor Living

From summer paddleboarding on urban lakes and autumn trail runs to winter ice skating and the iconic Luminary Loppet, Minnesotans celebrate every season outdoors.

Culture, Culinary Diversity, & Community

The Twin Cities and surrounding regions offer world-class cultural amenities:

Arts & Performance

Second only to New York City in theater seats per capita, the region features renowned venues like the Guthrie Theater, the Minneapolis Institute of Art, First Avenue, and the Minnesota Orchestra.

Award-Winning Food Scene

Discover a rich culinary ecosystem featuring farm-to-table dining, celebrated East African and Southeast Asian flavors, groundbreaking Indigenous cuisine, and a thriving craft brewery and coffee culture.

Pro Sports & Athletics

Home to six professional sports franchises (MN United FC, Twins, Vikings, Timberwolves, Lynx, and PWHL Minnesota) alongside Big Ten Gopher Athletics.

Faculty Onboarding & Relocation Support

We are dedicated to supporting your transition to the Medical School and helping you and your family establish roots in Minnesota.

Relocation & Settling In

U of M Relocation Assistance Program: Tailored assistance with community tours, neighborhood search, housing resources, and spousal/partner employment connections.

Faculty Affairs & Development: Specialized support programs to help you navigate appointment tracks, promotion guidelines, teaching resources, and research onboarding.