Moving to Maple Grove

Well, hello there, intrepid mover! Considering taking the plunge and relocating to Maple Grove, MN? You certainly have an eye for charming, vibrant communities. Located just a hop, skip, and jump northwest of Minneapolis, Maple Grove boasts a splendid mix of tranquility, abundant greenery, and urban amenities. Our comprehensive guide wouldn't dream of leaving you in the lurch during such an important life transition. We're here to provide an endearing sneak peek into your potential new life in Maple Grove. So, are you ready to explore?

Moving to Maple Grove, MN landscape image

What to Know Before Moving to Maple Grove

1. Every Day Feels like a Getaway at Maple Grove

Ever dreamt of living in a place where you have the beauty of nature right at your doorstep and the conveniences of modern life just a short drive away? Look no further than Maple Grove, Minnesota. With a plethora of parks, trails, and outdoor recreation spaces, you'll be hard-pressed not to feel like you're on a permanent vacation. Plus, with Minneapolis just 20 minutes away, you'll have easy access to bustling city life when you need it.

2. Education is Top Notch!

Maple Grove takes education seriously. The schools in the Osseo Area School District, which serves Maple Grove, regularly receive high ratings for their commitment to academic excellence. Extension programs, rigorous curricula, and dedicated educators ensure that your kiddos get the best possible start to their learning journey. Not to mention, Maple Grove is also home to a branch of Hennepin Technical College, a leading provider of higher education and scientific research.

3. It's a Shopper's Paradise

You don't need to go all the way to Minneapolis to find great shopping destinations. The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, a large outdoor mall designed to mirror a Midwestern Main Street, offers a unique and delightful shopping experience. Complete with cobblestone streets and even a central park with a spectacular water fountain play area, it's no ordinary shopping center; it's a shopper's utopia!

4. The Famous Historic Pierre Bottineau House

A little-known gem of Maple Grove is the historic Pierre Bottineau House, named after legendary frontiersman, Pierre Bottineau. This beautifully preserved 1854 home serves as a museum that takes you back to a time when Minnesota was even a state. For history buffs, it's a wonderful opportunity to delve deep into the region's rich past, making it a must-see when you move to Maple Grove.

5. World's Largest 'Dilly' Bar

Did you know Maple Grove is home to the world's largest Dilly Bar? Here's something even the locals might not know: the Dairy Queen in central Maple Grove is famed for making giant versions of the beloved DQ treat. It's the perfect delight for your sweet tooth and a fun family outing. And hey, it's a great conversation starter at your next social gathering!

6. An Awe-Inspiring Art Scene

Yes, you read that right. Maple Grove has a thriving art scene. The city regularly hosts art fairs and colorful community events like Chalkfest at Arbor Lakes, a free summer event where artists from around the world create magical sidewalk murals. And let's not forget the Maple Grove Arts Center, a non-profit organized that organizes art classes, exhibitions, and events, providing an outlet for creative minds. No, you certainly don't have to go far to become a patron of the arts when you live in Maple Grove!

So, there you have it. A move to Maple Grove, Minnesota, offers so much more than you could ever expect. Between the glorious green spaces, the top-rated education, the convenience of city life, the historical treasures, the world's largest Dilly Bar, and the colorful art scene, you'll be wondering why you didn't move here sooner. So, what are you waiting for? Your Maple Grove adventure awaits!

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Pros and Cons of Living in Maple Grove

Pros of Living in Maple Grove

High Quality of Life

Maple Grove is known for its excellent quality of life. The residents often praise the town's cleanliness, safety, and the exceptional public services. The town is also committed to providing spaces for outdoor activities with the presence of several parks, gardens, and lakes.

Education System

Maple Grove features a top-rated education system with a number of reputed public, private, and charter schools. Providing a variety of educational opportunities, Maple Grove has a high graduation rate and its students tend to perform well academically.

Lower Unemployment Rates

Judging by job market trends, Maple Grove generally has lower unemployment rates compared to national averages. This can be credited to the presence of several large companies and industries within the city.

Thriving Community Lifestyle

The city's calendar is usually packed with exciting community events, which contribute to its vibrant lifestyle. From farmers markets, music concerts, to annual festivals, there's always something going on for residents to enjoy.

Access to Quality Healthcare

Maple Grove is home to some of the finest healthcare facilities in Minnesota, making quality healthcare readily accessible for its residents. There are numerous reputed hospitals, specialty clinics and wellness centers within the city's boundary.

Cons of Living in Maple Grove

High Cost of Living

The cost of living in Maple Grove is higher than both the national and Minnesota averages. This is notably seen in the areas of housing, healthcare, and certain aspects of daily expenses.

Winter Weather

Like much of Minnesota, Maple Grove experiences long, extremely cold winters. The winters can be difficult for those not accustomed to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, and can impact daily life and commuting.

Limited Public Transport

Public transit options in Maple Grove can be limited for those without a personal vehicle. While there are buses and a few other services, they may not serve every area especially some residential neighbourhoods.

Increased Traffic

As a rapidly developing city with an increasing population, traffic congestion in Maple Grove is becoming an issue. Commuting during rush hours can be time-consuming, particularly in and around the commercial areas.

Property Taxes

Property taxes in Maple Grove can be on the higher side. Despite the many benefits that these taxes help cover, such as public services and education, this can be a disadvantage to homeowners.

Modern day picture of Maple Grove, MN highlighting pros and cons of living in Maple Grove, MN

Is Maple Grove a Good Place to Live?


Maple Grove, MN is a great place to live because of its bustling economy, excellent school system, and a myriad of recreational activities. It brags a variety of shopping destinations, restaurants, and parks for those who enjoy an outdoorsy lifestyle. Overall, it's a safe community with a small-town feel but with big-city amenities.



What Is Maple Grove Famous For?

Maple Grove's Marvelous Shopping Destinations

This city is known for its exceptional shopping experience with the Maple Grove Arboretum being a favourite spot for many. It houses various retail stores, restaurants, and even a movie theatre. It's the perfect spot for a killer shopping spree day.

The Magnificent Elm Creek Park Reserve

The Elm Creek Park Reserve is one of the largest parks in the Minneapolis area. With a number of activities available, including biking, hiking, swimming and skiing, it's a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts and those in love with nature.

The Highly Acclaimed Maple Grove Hospital

The renowned Maple Grove Hospital provides top-notch medical care in the city. Its commendable work in healthcare has earned it nationally recognized awards, making it one of the foremost reasons why Maple Grove is known outside its city limits.

Maple Grove's Exquisite Dining Scene

If you're a foodie, this city won't let you down. It boasts an impressive range of dining options that serve a multitude of cuisines, from amazing appetizer joints to exquisite fine-dining establishments, there is surely something for everyone.

Capital building of Maple Grove, MN in artistic rendering

Overview of Tax Rates

Property Tax

As of 2023, the property tax rate in Maple Grove, MN is around 1.15%. This rate is fairly average compared to other parts of the United States where the average property tax rate is around 1.1%.

Sales Tax

In Maple Grove, MN, the total sales tax rate as of 2023 is 7.525%. This is slightly higher than the national median sales tax rate which stands at approximately 7.3%.

Income Tax

For 2023, the state income tax rate in Minnesota ranges from 5.35% to 9.85%, depending on income level. This is significantly higher than the average state income tax rate in the U.S. which ranges from 0% to 13.3%.


Housing Market

The housing market in Maple Grove, MN holds a competitive edge over several US regions with a median home value of $319,428, way above the US average. The resident-centric amenities, good school districts, and safety profile have fueled this price surge. It also boasts a meager 3% vacancy rate, a testament to its vibrant rental market. Compared to typical US rent of $1,470/mo, Maple Grove's $1,922/mo seems steep, but the superior quality of life justifies it. Despite higher costs, the market's stability and potential make it a sound choice for investors and homebuyers.


Cost of Living

The cost of living in Maple Grove, MN is relatively moderate compared to other cities. While housing costs are above the national average, Maple Grove offers a range of housing options to suit varying budgets. Utility, transportation, and grocery costs are near the national average, contributing to the overall moderate cost of living. With excellent schools, a low crime rate, and a strong job market, Maple Grove may provide better value for your money compared to other high-cost cities.


Weather & Natural Disasters

Maple Grove, Minnesota, experiences a humid continental climate characterized by large seasonal temperature variances. Summers are warm to hot and often humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to 90s. Winters are typically cold and snowy, with temperatures often falling below freezing. The city receives substantial precipitation throughout the year, contributing to its lush, vibrant landscapes. Spring and summer are the wettest seasons, supporting the lush vegetation lifecycle. Maple Grove is prone to natural disasters like blizzards in the winter, while severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and floods occasionally occur during warmer months. Despite these risks, the city's robust infrastructure, comprehensive emergency services, and community resilience allow for effective management of these periodic natural disasters. The balance of distinct seasons and the beauty of the city through each cycle make Maple Grove a visually appealing and engaging place to live and visit.

Typical weather in Maple Grove, MN

Economy & Job Market

* Healthcare and Social Assistance

* Manufacturing

* Retail Trade

* Educational Services

* Accommodation and Food Services

Once largely an agricultural town, Maple Grove, Minnesota has evolved into a booming suburban economic hub. The city's main draw today isn't corn or dairy - it's well-paid, modern jobs! In the latter part of the 20th century, Maple Grove's main industries were agriculture and farming, with the local economy heavily reliant on these sectors. Nowadays, the economy is diverse, and prosperous, due to a boom in healthcare and social assistance, manufacturing, retail trade, educational services and accommodation and food services. The city has also made significant advances in the technology sector, becoming an incubator for startups and tech companies.

Are you packing your bags and contemplating a move to this dazzling suburban nirvana? Giddy up! Employment rates are generally high in Maple Grove, and rising, with the job growth over the next ten years predicted to be 34.8%, which is higher than the US average of 33.5%. Healthcare is a key powerhouse in the city's economy so job seekers in this sector may find plenty of opportunities. Likewise, those in retail or manufacturing are sure to find a bustling market. There are also increasing opportunities in educational services and food services. So fear not, brave employment pioneer! The job market in Maple Grove is as welcoming as its residents, offering diverse sectors with ready opportunities for those with an inexhaustible spirit of adventure!


Traffic and Transportation

Welcome to marvelous Maple Grove, MN - where the commute times are sweet and getting to the place you need is a breeze! It might surprise you, but the average drive time here is just 25 minutes! Yes, you heard it right. An escape from frustrating gridlocks in record time. Now, if you're a fan of public transit, we have options aplenty. The Metro Transit services our lovely town, with routes straight to downtown Minneapolis. Fun fact - We're also home to various Park & Ride lots to make your commute even easier. But what about those far-off adventures? Don't worry, we've got you covered. Minneapolis-St. Paul International, one of the busiest airports in the U.S., is just a short drive away, whisking you off to virtually anywhere your heart desires! So, whether it's by air or land, Maple Grove makes travel easy and fun. Come, experience our transportation triumphs today!

What is the traffic like in Maple Grove, MN?

Best Neighborhoods in Maple Grove

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1. Downtown Maple Grove

First on our sensational neighborhood list is Downtown Maple Grove. This lively urban center plays host to a variety of shopping and dining venues, meaning there's always something new to discover. And if you're a fan of farmers markets, rejoice! Downtown Maple Grove boasts a weekly farmers market bursting with local goods. But it's not all hustle and bustle. The area is also home to Central Park where locals go to enjoy calming green spaces, interactive water fountains, and thrilling winter ice-skating loops.

2. Fish Lake

If lakeside living is your jam, Fish Lake neighborhood is a must see! This neighborhood is named after its awe-inspiring natural feature, Fish Lake. Apart from the amazing opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming, this calm residential area also has an abundance of walking trails and picnic spots. When you feel like grabbing a bite, the local eateries might be more quaint than those downtown but they deliver in terms of taste.

3. The Grove

The Grove is simply perfect for families. This warm and inviting neighborhood has a strong sense of community and some of the best schools in the city. With loads of family-friendly amenities, your Saturdays could include trips to the local park, afternoons at the city library, or cycling along the neighborhood's charming trails. The Grove places a strong emphasis on safety and tranquillity, making it an ideal spot for raising your kiddos!

4. Arbor Lakes

For folks seeking a spot that effortlessly blends urban excitement with the unconventional beauty of the outdoors, look no further than Arbor Lakes. This neighborhood is best known for its quaint town center styled to resemble small-town America, complete with box stores and unique boutiques. And that's not all; Arbor Lakes also boasts a wide range of recreational facilities, including multiple parks, trails, and of course, the wonderful lakes it owes its name to.

5. Rush Creek

And now for our grand finale, Rush Creek. For those of you who have a penchant for the greens, Rush Creek is the neighborhood you've been waiting for. This tranquil neighborhood is known for its spectacular golf course, which is widely considered one of the best in the state. But even if golf isn't your thing, Rush Creek still has a lot to offer with its cozy restaurants, quiet walking trails, and an overall peaceful appeal.

To conclude, Maple Grove is a gem teeming with diverse neighborhoods that cater to tastes ranging from the urban jungle lover to the serene countryside enthusiast. Whether you choose the lively Downtown Maple Grove, the lakeside serenity of Fish Lake, the family-friendly vibe of The Grove, the energetic balance of Arbor Lakes, or the golfers' paradise of Rush Creek, you'll surely be making a wonderful decision. Remember, your new neighborhood reflects your lifestyle and personal preferences, so choose the one you resonate with the most, and enjoy the enchanting journey of making Maple Grove, MN, your home sweet home.

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Things to Do

Welcome to Maple Grove, Minnesota! This stunning city is known for its natural beauty, outdoor festivals, and adventurous spirit. Whether you're into shopping, hiking, or just exploring the local cuisine, this city has something for everyone. Here are seven must-do activities for newcomers. Buckle up and get ready for a thrilling discovery of your new home!1. Hike Around Elm Creek Park Reserve

This reserve is one of the crown jewels of Maple Grove, hosting over 4,000 acres of nature's bounty. Offering summer swimming, camping, archery, and even a disc golf course, Elm Creek Park Reserve offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities amid serene wildlife.

2. Immerse Yourself in the Arts at the Maple Grove Art Center

If you are an art enthusiast, this spot is a must-visit. The center brims with local talent and hosts several exhibitions throughout the year, encompassing a wide variety of expressive forms. Don't forget to check for art classes and workshops on the center's calendar!

3. Indulge in Retail Therapy at the Shoppes at Arbor Lakes

For serious shopping aficionados, the Shoppes at Arbor Lakes offer an ideal destination. This open-air mall includes more than 65 top-quality retailers, restaurants, and several seasonal events. You can shop, dine, and even attend concerts all within the same beautiful locale.

4. Explore the Town Green and Interactive Fountains

Few things capture the essence of a Midwestern summer better than having a family fun day at the Town Green and the interactive fountains. The bandshell hosts a range of events, from music concerts to movie nights. The kids will love frolicking in the vibrant water fountains during the warmer months.

5. Discover the Hidden Gem of Woodland Trails Park

This lesser-known, picturesque park offers peaceful, natural surroundings for taking walks or picnicking. The playground and the baseball field provide ample leisure opportunities for younger residents. It's a quiet retreat that offers a slice of nature within the city.

6. Visit the Maple Grove Indoor Farmers Market

Enjoy the best of local produce and homemade treats, irrespective of the weather outside. The Indoor Farmers Market operates bi-monthly from November through May, presenting an array of fresh, locally-sourced fruits, vegetables, baked goods, honey, and other artisanal items year-round.

7. Become a Maple Grove Geocacher

Dive into a thrilling and somewhat unknown activity in Maple Grove -- Geocaching! It's a modern-day, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. Participate in this fun activity to explore hidden spots throughout the city and become a part of an international community of treasure hunters.

In essence, moving to Maple Grove, Minnesota opens up a world of recreational activities, unique shopping experiences, arts, and much more. These seven top activities offer a glimpse into what waits for you in this wonderfully vibrant city. Whether you delight in the outdoors, thrive in bustling shopping centers, or appreciate the peace of an art gallery, Maple Grove welcomes you with open arms!

Things to do in Maple Grove, MN?

Find Movers for Your Maple Grove Relocation

As you anticipate your exciting relocation to Maple Grove, MN, remember no moving journey should be embarked upon alone. Allow Great Guys Moving to guide your journey by seamlessly connecting you with the best, most reliable movers within the industry. With years of experience, they ensure quality and affordability. Simply provide the details about your move, and Great Guys connects you with movers ready to take the stress out of relocation. Trust, efficiency, ensured licensing and insurance are the pillars of their service. Make the very first step of your moving process an effortless one, by requesting a free moving quote right now.

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