Having lived in Minneapolis, Minnesota for 10 years, what I initially thought of as just a "cold but clean place" now feels increasingly like a good fit for me. While Minnesota might seem like a state focused solely on agriculture, it actually has a well-rounded economy with strong sectors in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, IT, finance, and retail.

World-renowned medical institution Mayo Clinic, large retail company Target, food company General Mills, financial institution US Bank, and global manufacturing giant 3M all hail from Minnesota. Thanks to this, the state's economy ranks among the top in the Midwest, and job stability is high.

The reason there are many white people here is even a joke that "it's because it's cold."

Historically, this area was settled by German, Norwegian, and Swedish immigrants, leading to a large population of Northern European descendants. The cold climate, which immigrants tend to avoid, has kept the population structure relatively stable. Thus, in winter, it feels like the entire city is covered in blonde hair and white snow. However, recently, the racial landscape of Minnesota has been gradually changing with an increase in Somali, Ethiopian, and Asian immigrants.

Before coming to Minnesota, I lived in Cook County, Chicago, where traffic congestion, safety issues, and a subtle competitive tension among people created a constant sense of stress. In contrast, Minnesota, especially Minneapolis, feels much less exhausting.

The city is small but efficient, and nature feels close whether you are in a residential area or downtown. Just a 10-minute drive brings you to lakes or trails, making weekend walks or bike rides a regular part of life. The low traffic seems to have a significant impact on the quality of life.

Additionally, the education level is high, and public services are systematic. Although taxes are a bit high, the welfare for residents is well-managed.

With long winters leading to many indoor activities, places like libraries, community centers, and sports facilities are very well developed, and residents maintain a polite and quiet atmosphere. The strong healthcare infrastructure, with world-class hospitals like Mayo Clinic in the state, is reassuring.

There are certainly downsides. It is not an exaggeration to say that the climate dictates everything. During extremely cold winters, it can feel quite harsh. The winter in Korea seems mild in comparison. When there is heavy snowfall, cars freeze, and roads become slippery, turning the commute into a battle. There are many days when you end up staying home all day, and the lack of sunlight leads many to experience winter depression. For extroverted personalities, this sense of isolation can be quite overwhelming.

Another downside is that while it felt natural to live among a mix of races in Chicago, Minnesota still has a high percentage of white residents, which can create a slight distance when living as an Asian. This feeling intensifies, especially in rural areas. While overt discrimination is rare, subtle gazes and gaps in conversations still exist.

Moreover, the cost of living has risen significantly, and what was once considered a "great Midwestern state to live in" now has considerable housing prices and tax burdens. Lastly, the weather limits dining out and outdoor activities, which is disappointing. Although summer brings a brief burst of vibrancy, by October, life returns to a quiet, indoor-centered routine.

Still, Minnesota is a place of "calmness and substance." It suits those who prefer a steady work life and spending time with family over a fast-paced city lifestyle. If you come from Chicago, it may feel boring at first, but after about ten years, that quiet rhythm becomes ingrained, making it feel more comfortable.

Living in Minnesota, you can find a certain charm in the cold weather. With high job stability and excellent healthcare and education, it is ideal for family-oriented relocations. The major cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are clean and safe, with many lakes and parks, allowing you to enjoy nature every weekend. The cost of living is reasonable compared to larger cities, and the community is warm, making it easy for newcomers to settle in.

Aside from the long winters, there is no better place to find balance and tranquility in life. For those who want to work steadily and live quietly, Minnesota is the best choice.