Best Small towns around Mpls St Paul to Live (St. Paul: apartment, to rent)

[rpigeon]

I have lived in an expensive suburb near St Paul for 7 years. A family member with whom I own a home, and I, will be putting that home on the market in June. We live in a community where homes our size and price do sell, so I am looking for another place to live as soon as it does, or while it is on the market.

I work in downtown St Paul, but want to find a temporary or permanent place in a small town near (within 30-40 miles or preferably closer?) St Paul to rent or buy.

Any suggestions as to the best small town area(s)? By "best" I mean progressive, no huge property tax issues, animal friendly/(a good Veterinary clinic?) & affordable.

I am from North Dakota, and I prefer a more quiet/peaceful & rural area, within driving distance of more. Wisconsin is okay, but Stillwater area, or any other nearby Mn. location is prefered. Any suggestion/information would be appreciated.

[golfgal]

Stillwater--especially if you can find something outside of town, River Falls, WI, Prescott, WI, Hastings, again especially if you can find something outside of town, Cannon Falls.

Do you need to worry about good schools? That makes a difference. I should ask how small is small too.

[rpigeon]

I don't need to worry about schools,& almost nothing could be "too small." I am used to driving (ND farm girl)- love Stillwater area, think of it as expensive though, & do need to have room and space for my dog to be one.

I have lived here (Mn) for awhile but have not looked at some of the places you mentioned. I will though-thanks for any continued input.

[golfgal]

Start looking in the Lake Elmo, Lakeland, Afton area around Stillwater. Also search around Cottage Grove/Hastings. There are a lot of little towns in that area. Hampton is one town that comes to mind. Easy access to Highway 52 to get into St. Paul. Housing there is relatively inexpensive for the metro area.

[kuan]

I'd rent a small one BR apartment, make your home up North somewhere.

[rpigeon]

Thank you for your suggestions. I am going to look during my upcoming vacation in May in the areas suggested; including Hampton & the surrounding area - & the Lake Elmo /Stillwater area. Since I have worked all the time that I have lived here & time off is so busy with "catch-up" projects- haven't traveled to check out many of the surrounding areas, so all suggestions are very, very much appreciated.