Richfield

Tucked just south of Minneapolis and north of Bloomington, Richfield, Minnesota occupies one of the most strategically enviable locations in the Twin Cities metro. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t shout for attention but consistently earns it — a fully developed inner-ring suburb with genuine urban convenience, solid infrastructure, and a community that’s quietly thriving. If you’re weighing a move to the area, Richfield deserves a serious look.

A City That Fits Multiple Lifestyles

With a population of around 36,725, Richfield strikes a comfortable balance between small-town familiarity and metropolitan energy. The city is notably diverse, with a younger and more multicultural demographic than many surrounding suburbs, and a median age of 38.9 that reflects a community made up of working professionals, young families, and long-established residents alike. Neighborhoods like Lyndale and the Wood Lake area offer distinct characters — some blocks feel decidedly urban with walkable streets and older bungalow-style homes, while others open up into quieter residential pockets near parks and wetlands. Wood Lake Nature Center, a genuine urban wildlife refuge right in the city, is one of Richfield’s most beloved landmarks and a strong signal of what locals prioritize.

Cost of Living and Housing

Housing in Richfield is competitive but still more accessible than many neighboring communities. The median home price sits around $320,400, which is notably lower than comparable properties in Edina directly to the west or in south Minneapolis. Most of the housing stock consists of mid-century ramblers and split-levels — well-built homes from the 1950s through 1970s that have been updated over the decades. Renters also have solid options, with apartment developments along Penn Avenue and near the Best Buy corporate campus corridor. With a median household income of roughly $84,055, many residents find that Richfield offers a realistic path to homeownership without the financial strain that can accompany trendier zip codes nearby. Property taxes are reasonable by Hennepin County standards, and the city has invested steadily in infrastructure and public amenities.

Employment and Economy

Richfield’s economy punches well above its size. Most famously, Best Buy’s global headquarters is located right in the city, making it one of the largest employers in the immediate area and a magnet for retail, tech, and corporate talent. The proximity to Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport — literally minutes away — makes Richfield a logical base for anyone who travels frequently for work. The broader metro job market is easily accessible, with quick commutes to downtown Minneapolis via I-35W or Highway 62. Healthcare, retail, education, and technology sectors all have a strong presence throughout the region, giving residents diverse employment options without a long drive.

Lifestyle and Recreation

Daily life in Richfield is genuinely convenient. Southdale Center and the retail corridor along 66th Street put shopping, dining, and services within easy reach. The city maintains an impressive parks system, including Richfield Lake and the Veterans Memorial Amphitheater, which hosts community events throughout the summer. Cyclists and pedestrians benefit from trail connections that link into the broader Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail network. The dining scene is unpretentious but diverse, reflecting the community’s multicultural makeup — you’ll find everything from authentic Latin American restaurants to Vietnamese spots and classic Midwestern diners.

The Bottom Line

Richfield isn’t trying to be the flashiest suburb in the Twin Cities, and that’s precisely what makes it appealing. It offers real urban proximity, a strong sense of community, attainable housing, and a location that simply makes daily life easier. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a commuter looking to cut drive times, or someone who wants a walkable neighborhood without Minneapolis prices, Richfield is a city worth moving to with confidence.