Data updated Oct 9, 2026
Best fit: Digital Nomad (score: 68)
Stillwater, Minnesota, sits along the St. Croix River about 7 kilometers from the nearest airport, in the heart of the Upper Midwest. The town experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers from June to August and cold, snowy winters from December to February, offering distinct seasonal changes typical of Minnesota. Expats tend to cluster in the Liberty on the Lake neighborhood, a popular choice for its modern amenities and community feel. With a population of 19 thousand, Stillwater feels intimate, yet it offers enough variety in housing and lifestyle to appeal to newcomers from abroad.
Living in Stillwater requires a realistic look at costs. A single adult's monthly expenses excluding rent come to $1,280, and with rent included, the budget tier totals $1,496 per month, the mid-range tier $2,401, and the comfortable tier $2,606. Rent for a one-bedroom in the city center averages $1,490 per month, while outside the center it is $1,497, a negligible difference. A three-bedroom in the center runs $2,260, and outside the center $2,110. Utilities run about $133 monthly, internet $68, and a mobile phone plan $55. A monthly public transport pass costs $83, and a gym membership $125. For dining, an inexpensive restaurant meal is $18, a mid-range three-course meal for two is $83, and a cappuccino is $6. The average monthly net salary locally is $6,896, which means that even the comfortable tier is within reach for many professionals, though housing costs take a significant share.
Safety and healthcare are strong points. The safety index stands at 78 out of 100, and the crime index is a low 22, indicating a secure environment for residents. Healthcare quality is rated as excellent, and English is widely spoken, which eases the transition for expats. The air quality index is 42, which is moderate, but the overall environment is healthy. The cost of living index is 80 out of 100 relative to New York City, making Stillwater more affordable than many major urban centers while still offering a high standard of living.
Getting to Stillwater is straightforward via the nearest airport, which is just 7 kilometers away. For those considering a move, the town suits a range of lifestyles: the overall expat score is 68, the FIRE score is 56, the retiree score is 60, and the digital nomad score is 68. The expat community is small, which can be appealing for those seeking a quieter, more integrated experience. Visa options exist, but specifics depend on individual circumstances. Stillwater is ideal for professionals, remote workers, and retirees who value safety, excellent healthcare, and a slower pace of life, all within a short drive of a major airport and the natural beauty of the St. Croix River Valley.
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A 1BR in the center runs about $1490/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
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Stillwater is a genuinely safe small town with a strong community feel and low violent crime. Walking around downtown and residential areas during day and evening hours is comfortable and normal. The city's Safety Index of 78 reflects reality—this is a place where residents leave doors unlocked and neighbors know each other. For expats accustomed to larger urban centers, the peace here may feel almost unusual.
Property crime (vehicle theft, garage break-ins) occurs at low rates but isn't zero—typical for small Midwestern towns. Petty theft from unlocked cars is the main concern. Violent crime is rare. Solo female travelers and residents face minimal specific risks beyond standard precautions. The St. Croix River area and downtown are well-maintained; no neighborhoods require avoidance for safety reasons.
Stillwater has stable local governance, reliable police presence, and no significant political instability or corruption concerns. This is mainstream America with predictable civic infrastructure. The main consideration isn't safety but rather whether you'll adapt to small-town life—limited nightlife, fewer cultural amenities, and slower pace. For someone seeking a secure, quiet retirement or remote work base in the US, Stillwater delivers exactly that.
See how Stillwater, MN's healthcare compares with Galliano, LA
Stillwater experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers (June-August) and cold, snowy winters (December-February), offering distinct seasonal changes typical of Minnesota.
A classic American town offering a serene environment close to the Twin Cities.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Industrious Minneapolis - North Loop | While technically in Minneapolis, the North Loop location is easily accessible from Stillwater and offers a premium coworking experience. It features a professional atmosphere, private offices, and various amenities suitable for focused work. |
| Regus Minneapolis - US Bank Plaza East | Located in downtown Minneapolis, this Regus location provides a reliable and professional coworking environment. It's a good option for those seeking a standard coworking setup with access to meeting rooms and business services, and is commutable from Stillwater. |
| WeWork Minneapolis - Capella Tower | Another Minneapolis option, Capella Tower offers a vibrant coworking atmosphere with a strong community. It's a good choice for those who enjoy networking and a more social work environment, and is accessible from Stillwater. |
Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).
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See how Stillwater, MN's digital nomad life compares with Galliano, LA
Affluent and safe river town near Twin Cities. High quality of life.
Areas of Stillwater, MN that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Historic charm, tourist-centric, lively
The heart of Stillwater, filled with boutiques, restaurants, and historic architecture. Popular with tourists and locals alike. Walkable, but can be crowded and noisy, especially during peak season. Rents are higher due to the prime location.
Residential, historic, scenic views
A quieter residential area north of downtown, known for its historic homes and views of the St. Croix River. Less walkable to downtown amenities than other areas. Offers a more peaceful setting, but requires a car for many errands.
Family-friendly, established, residential
Another residential area, located south of downtown. Features a mix of housing styles and is popular with families. Less touristy than downtown, but still close to amenities. Requires a car for most errands.
Quiet, nature-focused, residential
A more secluded area surrounding Lily Lake, offering a peaceful, nature-oriented environment. Primarily residential with single-family homes. Requires a car, but offers access to outdoor activities and a slower pace of life.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $1490/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
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