Comparing life in Washington, DC with Minneapolis, MN reveals contrasting experiences shaped by varying factors such as weather, culture, cost of living, and infrastructure among others. These two cities offer unique opportunities to both residents and tourists alike, each with their own distinct charm and appeal. The quality of essential services in terms of education, healthcare, safety, and accessibility of public transit also vary, providing a diverse range of choices for anyone looking to visit or relocate.
Distance between
Washington, DC and
Minneapolis, MN : 931.8 miles
Washington's population is larger by 58%. Its population has grown by 97,991 people (17.1%) since 2000. The population of Minneapolis has grown by 42,718 people (11.2%) during that time.
Safety is paramount and both cities have their share of crime issues. Washington, DC has historically reported a higher crime level compared to the national average. However, there's been a significant effort to reduce these numbers. On the other hand, Minneapolis also experiences crime but generally has a lower crime rate in comparison. In both cities, crime rates vary significantly by neighborhood. Being informed about the safest areas to live or visit is helpful.
City-data.com crime index counts serious crimes and violent crime more heavily. It adjusts for the number of visitors and daily workers commuting into cities. (higher means more crime, U.S. average = 301.1)
City-data.com crime index counts serious crimes and violent crime more heavily. It adjusts for the number of visitors and daily workers commuting into cities. (higher means more crime, U.S. average = 301.1)
Sex Offenders
According to our data, there are 1,072 registered sex offenders living in Washington and 181 registered sex offenders living in . The ratio of residents to sex offenders in Washington is 635 to 1; the ratio in Minneapolis is 2,285 to 1. The number of registered sex offenders compared to the number of residents is much larger in Washington than that in Minneapolis.
Cost of Living
As the nation's capital, Washington, DC has a higher cost of living compared to Minneapolis. The difference is most significant when it comes to housing prices. Rent, as well as home purchase prices in DC, are significantly higher than in Minneapolis. Other costs such as groceries, healthcare, and transportation are also typically higher in DC. Therefore, Minneapolis would generally be a more affordable choice.
Income Tax
City/state income tax is also different in these two cities. In Washington, DC, income tax ranges from 4% to 8.95%, depending on income level. In Minneapolis, the state of Minnesota enforces a progressive income tax that ranges from 5.35% to 9.85%.
Property Tax
Washington, DC has lower property taxes, with a rate around 0.56%, compared to Minneapolis, which has a higher property tax rate of about 1.18%. It's important to note, however, that this would likely be counterbalanced by the higher real estate prices in DC.
Sales Tax
The sales tax in Washington, DC sits at 6%, which is lower than the Minneapolis sales tax rate of 8.025%. This could have a slight influence on daily expenses considering the fact that DC has a higher cost of living.
Income
Type
Washington
Minneapolis
Estimated median household income
$90,088
$69,397
Estimated per capita income
$65,808
$44,836
Cost of living index (U.S. average is 100)
124.2
115.8
If you make $50,000 in Minneapolis, you will have to make $53,627 in Washington to maintain the same standard of living.
Geographical Conditions
Washington, DC sits along the Potomac River and has a relatively flat geography. It experiences hot, humid summers and mild-to-moderate winters. Minneapolis, on the other hand, has a more variable topography, being located in the Upper Midwest, and experiences all four seasons with a more significant emphasis on winter.
Both cities feature notable educational institutions. DC houses many prestigious universities and colleges, including Georgetown University and George Washington University. The quality of public schools varies, with affluent areas generally having better-rated schools. In contrast, Minneapolis, home to the University of Minnesota, prides itself on its strong public school system with a high graduation rate. Both cities offer a solid education base depending on individual needs.
The DC economy is robust and diverse with strengths in several sectors including government, professional services, and tourism. In contrast, Minneapolis' economy is largely driven by commerce, finance, health services, and industry. While both cities have sound economies, Washington, DC often offers a higher earning potential but also comes with higher living costs.
Biggest Employers
In Washington, the largest employers are primarily government-based such as The US Federal Government and District of Columbia Public Schools. In Minneapolis, the largest employers include the Mayo Clinic, Target Corp. and the University of Minnesota. Both cities offer ample job opportunities, varying mainly on the industry one wants to join.
There were 376 building permits issued in Washington in 2012 (149 more than in 2011) compared to 63 building permits issued in Minneapolis in 2012 (14 more than in 2011).
In Washington (District of Columbia), 90.9% voted for Democrats and 7.3% for Republicans in 2012 Presidential Election. In Minneapolis (Hennepin County), 62.5% voted for Democrats and 35.4% for Republicans.
Elections
Type
Democrats
Republicans
Other
Year
Washington
Minneapolis
Washington
Minneapolis
Washington
Minneapolis
2020
92.6%
70.7%
5.4%
27.4%
2.0%
1.9%
2016
90.9%
63.4%
4.1%
28.3%
5.0%
8.3%
2012
90.9%
62.5%
7.3%
35.4%
1.8%
2.1%
2008
92.5%
63.6%
6.5%
34.9%
1.0%
1.4%
2004
89.6%
59.7%
9.4%
39.7%
1.0%
0.6%
2000
85.2%
53.7%
9.0%
39.4%
5.9%
6.9%
1996
85.2%
54.4%
9.3%
33.2%
5.5%
12.5%
Breakdown of population affiliated with a religious congregation
Type
Adherents
Congregations
Religion
Washington
Minneapolis
Washington
Minneapolis
CATHOLIC CHURCH
12.6%
18.7%
7.4%
8.7%
AMERICAN BAPTIST CHURCHES IN THE USA
6.2%
0.4%
10.3%
1.3%
SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION
4.4%
0.1%
10.3%
1.3%
EPISCOPAL CHURCH
3.1%
0.7%
5.3%
2.1%
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
0.9%
0.4%
1.8%
2.9%
MUSLIM ESTIMATE
0.7%
0.7%
1.1%
2.7%
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
0.5%
10.8%
2.1%
12.6%
LUTHERAN CHURCH
0.1%
1.6%
0.3%
4.1%
NATIONA ASSOCIA CONGREG CHRISTIAN CHURCHES
0.0%
0.4%
0.0%
0.2%
Weather
The weather patterns between the two cities substantially differ. Minneapolis boasts a classic Midwestern climate with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Washington, DC, on the flip side, benefits from a hotter, more humid climate in the summer with mild to cool winters. Winter in DC is usually milder than Minneapolis. The variation in weather can influence one's decision to relocate or pay a visit, depending on personal preferences.
Weather and climate
Type
Washington
Minneapolis
Temperature - Average
56.4°F
45.3°F
Humidity - Average morning or afternoon humidity
68.8%
74.9%
Humidity - Differences between morning and afternoon humidity
33%
33%
Humidity - Maximum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
81%
84%
Humidity - Minimum monthly morning or afternoon humidity
48%
51%
Precipitation - Yearly average
42.7 in
30.4 in
Snowfall - Yearly average
32.4 in
98.6 in
Clouds - Number of days clear of clouds
15.9%
15.8%
Sunshine amount - Average
61.5%
61.8%
Sunshine amount - Differences during a year
21%
37%
Sunshine amount - Maximum monthly
66%
74%
Sunshine amount - Minimum monthly
45%
37%
Wind speed - Average
9.7 mph
10.5 mph
Average climate in Washington, District of Columbia
Average climate in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Air pollution
Type
AQI
CO
NO2
OZONE
PB
PM10
PM25
SO2
Year
Washington
Minneapolis
Washington
Minneapolis
Washington
Minneapolis
Washington
Minneapolis
Washington
Minneapolis
Washington
Minneapolis
Washington
Minneapolis
Washington
Minneapolis
2018
88
81
0.32
0.24
11.6
14.1
23.2
28.2
N/A
N/A
16.4
20.4
8.8
8.5
0.8
1.3
2017
84
71
0.32
0.26
12.3
13.4
24.9
27.9
N/A
N/A
16.5
17.5
9.8
7.8
1.0
1.4
2016
98
76
0.43
0.28
14.7
12.6
24.6
26.7
0.002
N/A
17.2
16.7
9.5
7.3
1.0
1.5
2015
91
80
0.34
0.28
14.8
13.8
26.2
27.8
0.002
N/A
17.0
19.4
10.4
8.8
1.3
1.1
2014
85
83
0.33
0.25
11.6
15.9
25.9
26.8
0.002
N/A
17.1
21.2
10.0
7.0
1.0
1.0
2013
88
81
0.34
N/A
11.7
12.8
25.6
32.1
0.002
N/A
17.3
20.9
11.6
6.7
1.0
0.9
2012
103
80
0.58
N/A
15.2
7.7
27.6
29.0
0.002
N/A
N/A
23.8
12.2
8.4
1.6
0.2
2011
105
90
0.67
0.22
15.4
7.8
27.7
29.7
0.002
N/A
N/A
23.4
11.4
9.8
3.1
0.1
2010
114
101
0.88
N/A
15.9
9.6
29.3
27.8
0.003
0.003
N/A
24.7
9.3
9.6
3.4
0.5
2009
90
103
0.86
N/A
16.2
7.4
24.4
N/A
0.002
0.004
N/A
21.4
7.6
9.4
4.6
1.1
2008
103
92
1.23
N/A
16.2
8.8
25.3
N/A
0.003
0.003
N/A
18.3
8.5
10.1
5.6
1.0
2007
113
102
1.17
N/A
16.8
9.2
27.1
N/A
0.004
0.003
N/A
21.6
10.4
11.6
5.1
0.6
2006
114
88
1.11
N/A
17.2
9.5
25.5
N/A
0.004
0.006
N/A
20.5
10.9
10.5
4.5
1.8
2005
105
107
0.86
N/A
20.5
12.3
22.7
N/A
0.006
0.004
N/A
22.0
11.7
10.6
4.5
2.1
2004
113
103
0.62
N/A
21.3
11.0
20.6
N/A
0.004
0.005
N/A
23.9
11.3
10.5
6.5
3.3
2003
108
114
0.90
N/A
23.6
12.5
20.8
N/A
N/A
0.004
N/A
25.9
12.2
11.9
8.3
3.0
2002
125
95
1.16
0.42
23.7
15.7
25.0
N/A
N/A
0.007
N/A
N/A
N/A
10.9
6.7
1.8
2001
113
82
1.07
0.75
23.9
17.5
22.0
32.4
0.017
0.011
N/A
N/A
N/A
9.3
6.7
2.0
2000
115
68
1.17
0.75
20.2
16.6
19.1
31.2
N/A
0.009
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
8.2
2.8
Natural disasters
Type
Washington
Minneapolis
Tornado activity compared to U.S. average
110.6%
129.9%
Earthquake activity compared to U.S. average
42.9%
44.5%
Natural disasters compared to U.S. average
19%
17%
Transportation
Both cities have reliable public transportation systems. Washington, DC has the Metro system that spans the entire city and nearby suburbs. On the other hand, Minneapolis has Metro Transit, which operates bus and light-rail service across the city. Additionally, Minneapolis is regularly listed as one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country.
Transport
Type
Washington
Minneapolis
Amtrak stations
1
0
Amtrak stations nearby
3
1
FAA registered aircraft
456
284
FAA registered aircraft manufacturers and dealers
3
0
Means of transportation to work
Type
Washington
Minneapolis
Bicycle
2%
1.9%
Bus
6.3%
6.6%
Carpooled
7.8%
9%
Car alone
62.5%
74.3%
Motorcycle
0.1%
0.1%
Railroad
0.3%
0.6%
Streetcar
10.6%
0.1%
Subway
1.3%
0.2%
Taxicab
0.8%
0.2%
Walked
5.7%
5.2%
Average travel time to work
Type
Washington
Minneapolis
Average
39.2 min
27.4 min
Other means
26 min
20.3 min
Public transportation
38.9 min
32.6 min
Private vehicle occupancy
Type
Washington
Minneapolis
Average
1.1
1.2
Drove alone
89.4%
87.5%
In 2 person carpool
9.7%
10.3%
In 3 person carpool
0.6%
1%
In 4 person carpool
0.4%
0.8%
In 5-6 person carpool
0%
0.4%
How many people usually rode to work in the car, truck or van.
Real Estate
Real estate is typically more expensive in DC, with a median home cost considerably higher than the national average. On the other hand, Minneapolis real estate prices are significantly lower than DC. The housing market in Minneapolis is more affordable, making it a more attractive option for first-time homebuyers or those on a budget.
Neighborhoods
Washington, DC is renowned for its historic and diverse neighborhoods. From the nightlife of Adams Morgan to the historic allure of Georgetown, there's a neighborhood for everyone. Minneapolis also boasts a diverse mix of neighborhoods, including the scenic Minnehaha and artsy Northeast. Each city offers a variety of lifestyle options depending on preference.
Houses and residents
Type
Washington
Minneapolis
Houses
357,482
203,633
Average household size (people)
2.1
2.2
Median year apartment built
1965
1967
Length of stay in the house since moving in
13.5 years
13 years
Houses occupied
319,565 (89.4%)
188,681 (92.7%)
Houses occupied by owners
132,936 (41.6%)
93,981 (49.8%)
Houses occupied by renters
186,629 (58.4%)
94,700 (50.2%)
Median rent asked for vacant for-rent units
$2,791
$1,777
Median monthly housing costs
$1,817
$1,369
Median price asked for vacant for-sale houses and condos
$996,150
$238,504
Estimated median house or condo value
$669,900
$319,100
Median numbers of rooms
3.8
4.8
Median number of rooms in apartments
3.1
3.3
Median number of rooms in houses and condos
6
6.4
Median house price - detached houses
Over $1,000,000
$398,431
Median house price - in 2-unit structures
Over $1,000,000
$353,466
Median house price - in 3-to-4-unit structures
$471,443
$335,939
Median house price - in 5 or more unit structures
$527,983
$317,891
Median house price - Townhouses or other attached units
$817,288
$376,360
Median house price - All housing units
$790,542
$383,883
Median house age
65
70
Renting percentage
58%
50.8%
Housing density (houses/condos per square mile)
5,821.9
3,709.7
House value disparities
26.7%
30.1%
Household income disparities
45.7%
45.3%
Median household income for houses/condes with a mortgage
$163,111
$113,268
Median household income for apartments without a mortgage
$108,852
$70,111
Housing units without a mortgage
777 (0.8%)
1,756 (2.5%)
Housing units with both a second mortgage and home equity loan
8,586 (8.5%)
6,107 (8.7%)
Housing units with a mortgage
100,122 (99.2%)
68,555 (97.5%)
Housing units with a home equity loan
1,057 (1%)
203 (0.3%)
Housing units with a second mortgage
12,793 (12.7%)
7,699 (10.9%)
House/condo owner moved in on average (years ago)
10
10
House/condo renter moved in on average (years ago)
1
1
Housing units lacking complete kitchen facilities
1.5%
0.7%
Housing units lacking complete plumbing facilities
1.5%
0.4%
Housing units in structures
Housing units in structures
Washington
Minneapolis
One, detached
11.2%
41.8%
One, attached
22.2%
3.6%
Two
2.7%
7.4%
3 or 4
6.8%
3.8%
5 to 9
7.3%
3.7%
10 to 19
8.5%
6.2%
20 to 49
7.6%
9.8%
50 or more
33.6%
23.3%
Mobile homes
0.2%
0.3%
Median real estate property taxes paid for housing units
Self-employed workers in own not incorporated business
16,654
13,397
State government workers
6,699
12,526
Unpaid family workers
580
516
Industries and Occupations
DC-led jobs are more skewed towards politics, public policy, and international relations due to the city's status as the nation's capital. Minneapolis, on the other hand, is a major economic hub in the Midwest, with a broad range of job opportunities in healthcare, education, finance, and retail trade.
In terms of healthcare, both cities offer high-quality medical care but there are disparities. Washington, DC is home to well-regarded hospitals like MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and George Washington University Hospital. Minneapolis, however, boasts one of the best hospitals in the country, the Mayo Clinic, renowned for its patient care and clinical research.
Health (county statistics)
Type
Washington
Minneapolis
General health status score of residents in this county from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent)
Infrastructure in both cities integrates historic charm with modern amenities. DC has a wider range of notable buildings and monuments, while Minneapolis has a modern downtown skyline. Both cities are investing in green spaces and pedestrian-friendly measures. However, DC, being the nation’s capital, has heavy traffic and congestion compared to Minneapolis.
Infrastructure
Type
Washington
Minneapolis
Hospitals
114
17
TV stations
27
17
Arenas or stadiums
4
4
Bank branches located here
247
86
Bank institutions located here
34
26
Main business address for public companies
30
59
Drinking water stations with no reported violations in the past
5
10
Drinking water stations with reported violations in the past
HMDA - Conventional home purchase loans - Applications denied
Year
Washington
Minneapolis
1999
1,328
1,420
2000
1,438
428
2001
935
294
2002
886
272
2003
1,319
1,151
2004
2,281
1,818
2005
2,920
3,008
2006
3,362
3,221
2007
2,548
1,812
2008
1,095
710
2009
514
372
Culture and Food
Both cities are rich in culture and food offerings. Washington DC, due to its political significance and diversity, boasts a wide array of international cuisines, museums, and cultural events. Minneapolis, while perhaps less globally diverse, has a strong local culture with a vibrant arts scene, numerous breweries, and a mix of global and American Midwest cuisines.
Sports Teams
For sports enthusiasts, both cities have several professional sports teams. Washington, DC is home to the Washington Wizards (NBA), Washington Capitals (NHL), and the Washington Nationals (MLB). Minneapolis also has a rich sports culture, housing the Minnesota Vikings (NFL), Minnesota Twins (MLB), and Minnesota Wild (NHL).
Washington, DC
Minneapolis, MN
Washington, DC and 
Minneapolis, MN : 931.8 miles
