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Apartments for Rent in Bloomington, MN

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Frequently asked questions

  • How many apartments for rent are available in Bloomington, MN right now?

    What sets renting here apart from the rest of the Twin Cities suburbs is rail. The Metro Blue Line terminates at Mall of America and places four stations inside Bloomington, so a slice of the apartment stock here was built to a transit-oriented standard that most suburbs never had reason to build to. Roomster lists 11 apartments for rent around the city, across the South Loop near Bloomington Central, along American Boulevard and I-494, through East Bloomington, and out by Normandale Lake.

  • How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Bloomington, MN?

    A studio averages about $1,274 for roughly 541 square feet, a one-bedroom $1,508 for about 759, and a two-bedroom $1,870 for around 1,083, with the citywide average at $1,673 after a rise of about 2.7 percent. The market is tightly banded, with 45 percent of rentals falling between $1,501 and $2,000. You can find one-bedrooms under $1,300 a month in East Bloomington around Oxboro and Windom Park and in the older buildings off Penn Avenue, while the new South Loop blocks price at the top.

  • Is there rent control on apartments for rent in Bloomington?

    No, and Minnesota handles this differently from most states: a city may only adopt rent control if its own voters approve it at the ballot box. Both cities Bloomington borders have been through that. St. Paul voters approved a hard 3 percent cap in any 12-month period, which took effect on May 1, 2022, and Minneapolis voters approved an enabling ordinance the same night in 2021, though the council has not since enacted a policy. Bloomington has never put the question to its voters, so nothing here limits what an increase can be.

  • What are the most affordable areas to rent an apartment in Bloomington?

    Head east. The blocks of East Bloomington near the I-35W and I-494 interchange, and the older buildings around Oxboro, Windom Park and Penn Avenue, ask consistently less than the rest of the city. West Bloomington, out toward Normandale Lake, sits in the middle, with one-bedrooms in that area starting around $1,250. The premium is concentrated in the South Loop, where the newest buildings trade on being a short walk from a Blue Line platform and the mall.

  • How does renting an apartment in Bloomington differ from renting in Minneapolis or St. Paul?

    Less by price than by rulebook, which surprises people who assume one metro means one set of rules. St. Paul operates a voter-approved rent cap and Minneapolis limits security deposits to one month's rent, while Bloomington does neither: no rent stabilization and no local deposit ceiling. The other difference is structural. Because Bloomington has more jobs per capita than either city, renting here does not necessarily mean commuting anywhere, which is the opposite of the usual suburban trade-off.

  • What deposit and fees should I expect on a Bloomington apartment for rent?

    Minnesota places no statutory cap on a security deposit, and Bloomington has passed no ordinance of its own, so the amount is set by the lease rather than by law. The protections come at the other end: your deposit must be returned within 21 days of the tenancy ending, together with a written itemization of anything withheld. A landlord who keeps money wrongly can be liable for double the amount withheld, with up to $500 in punitive damages where the withholding was in bad faith.

Essential Tips to Rent an Apartment in Bloomington, MN


Rent an apartment in Bloomington, MN with a clear understanding of your budget, preferred neighborhoods, and lease preferences. Whether you're a professional, a couple, or relocating, knowing the range of apartments available—including one- and two-bedroom options, pet-friendly units, and short term rentals—can help you find a home that suits your lifestyle and commute needs.

What Kind of Apartment Search Makes Sense in Bloomington, MN

Bloomington's rental market offers various apartment types that accommodate diverse budgets and lifestyles. One-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments are widely available, often offered by private landlords who may provide more flexible lease terms. Pet-friendly apartments and units with convenient amenities like laundry facilities are also common choices.

For commuters, apartments near public transit and in walkable neighborhoods can reduce daily travel time. Flexible lease options, such as short term rentals or sublets, are beneficial if your move-in date is uncertain or if you need temporary housing.

How to Compare Apartments for Rent in Bloomington, MN

To focus your search effectively, consider these key factors:

  • Neighborhood fit: Choose neighborhoods that match your lifestyle and commute needs. Some areas are quieter and residential, while others offer closer access to transit and local amenities.
  • Apartment size and type: One-bedroom apartments provide a good balance of privacy and cost; two-bedroom units offer more space for roommates or couples, while studios may be more affordable but compact.
  • Lease terms: Look for leases that suit your plans, including options for month-to-month, short term, or sublet arrangements.
  • Amenities and policies: Confirm if the apartment includes laundry, allows pets, or offers parking to fit your daily routine.

What Lease and Budget Factors Matter Most

When budgeting, consider upfront costs like security deposits and application fees along with monthly rent. Apartments with flexible leases or sublet options might have different pricing or requirements.

Landlords typically require an application process that may include income screening or references. Being aware of these steps in advance can help avoid surprises. Additionally, pet-friendly units or apartments with extra amenities sometimes carry additional fees worth factoring into your budget.

How to Use Roomster Effectively to Rent an Apartment in Bloomington, MN

Roomster streamlines your apartment search by allowing you to filter listings based on priorities such as lease length, apartment size, and pet policies. To make the most of your search:

  • Keep your profile current with accurate move-in dates and preferences.
  • Apply filters for short term rentals, furnished apartments, or pet-friendly options if those are important.
  • Check new listings regularly and reach out to landlords or private owners promptly.
  • Look for listings that clearly state lease terms and application requirements.

How to Avoid Costly Rental Mistakes in Bloomington, MN

Exercise caution with apartment listings by confirming lease terms before making any payments. Avoid sending money prior to signing a lease or meeting the landlord either in person or virtually. Listings mentioning an ID check or formal application process can help provide more confidence in the legitimacy of the rental.

Whenever possible, visit the apartment or request a virtual tour to confirm its condition and included amenities. Share personal information only after receiving a clear lease agreement. Staying vigilant helps you avoid scams and unexpected rental obligations.

FAQ About Apartments for Rent in Bloomington, MN

What kind of apartment is easiest to find in Bloomington, MN?

One-bedroom apartments tend to be the most commonly available, offering a practical balance between privacy and affordability. Studios and two-bedroom apartments are also available but their availability can vary based on demand and season.

Should I look for a studio, one-bedroom, or shared apartment in Bloomington, MN?

Your choice should align with your budget and lifestyle. Studios are generally more affordable for single renters, one-bedrooms suit couples or those wanting more space, and shared apartments can lower costs if you are comfortable with roommates.

What should I ask before renting an apartment in Bloomington, MN?

Essential questions include lease length, which utilities are included, pet policies, security deposit amounts, and application procedures. Also clarify your move-in date and whether the apartment comes furnished or unfurnished.

How early should I start searching for apartments in Bloomington, MN?

Starting your search about 30 to 60 days before your desired move-in date is advisable. This timeframe aligns with typical landlord listing cycles and offers a good selection of available apartments.