S aint Paul, Minnesota is the capital and second largest city in the state. Saint Paul and the adjoining city of Minneapolis together form the area known as the Twin Cities. According to the 2000 Census, St. Paul has a thriving population of 287,151 residents. Woodbury, which recently ranked number one on Money Magazine's recent list of the most desirable places to live in the Central United States for cities under 100,000 in population, is a growing suburb just southeast of St. Paul. Today, Woodbury's population exceeds 47,000 and is expected to reach 80,000 by 2010.

The city of St Paul is a magnificent community with stunning architecture like the Cathedral of Saint Paul, the Minnesota Historical Society's History Center, St. Paul City Hall and Ramsey County Courthouse, the Minnesota State Capitol Building, St Paul Public Library and St. Paul's Landmark Center. Saint Paul's Summit Avenue boasts one of the longest stretches of virtually uninterrupted Victorian architecture in the United States, beginning at the European-style Saint Paul Cathedral and running to the Mississippi River. In the downtown area, buildings are connected by a skyway system in which buildings are directly connected to each other, and pedestrians may walk from one building to another without going outside.

The Saint Paul/East Metro area of Minnesota regularly makes business headlines. It is home to innovators, high-tech leaders, Fortune 500 companies, outstanding workers and a diversified economy. Occupational groups having the greatest need for workers include healthcare practitioners, personal care and service, healthcare support, as well as positions throughout the construction industry. Minnesota, Colorado and Virginia led the nation in personal income growth from the first quarter of 2000 to the first quarter of 2001. The median household income in Saint Paul is $38,774.

Saint Paul was recently honored with the distinction of being one of the "30 Most Livable Communities in the U.S." Due in large part to developing innovative strategies to prepare for the New Economy through the creative plans, actions, and visions of its leadership. The award was presented by Partners for a Livable Community and designates Saint Paul as one of America's best places to live, work and play!

W oodbury is also home to a thriving business community with major employers, such as State Farm Insurance, The Hartford, Assurant (formerly Fortis), Target.Direct, Woodwinds Health Campus, eFunds, and EcoWater Systems. It is also in close proximity to Minnesota's largest employer, 3M. Several major shopping centers can be found in the city, making Woodbury the retail-shopping hub of the east metro region. Woodbury residents enjoy access to high wages, in fact, the city ranks in the "Top 100 Cities With Highest Median Incomes and Median Resident Age Less Than 35." It comes in 59th on the list with a median household income of $76,109.

Woodbury is highly praised for its attractive residential neighborhoods, which are connected by more than 75 miles of multi-use trails and surrounded by 2,000 acres of dedicated park land. Residents have a plethora of housing options, ranging from apartments and townhomes to large-lot estates. Woodbury was given such top marks by Money magazine due to its affordable home prices, property taxes being below the national average, a low crime rate, easy access to golf courses and the abundant parks, greenbelts and recreational trails. The median value for a single-family home is just $199,000.

This area of the country offers exciting sports teams that appeal to fans of all ages. The Saint Paul/East Metro area is home to the National Hockey League's hottest team, the Minnesota Wild, and to the Saint Paul Saints, a minor-league baseball team. Professional baseball, basketball, football and soccer teams also call the Twin Cities home. Sports Illustrated recently named Saint Paul its "Sportstown" due in large part to the exciting Minnesota Wild team and the splendid Xcel Energy Center.

The Saint Paul area is host to some of the country's finest arts and culture. More than 40 organizations produce more than 1,000 arts events, exhibits, and performances in Saint Paul alone. A local favorite is the Minnesota Centennial Showboat, a summer tradition since 1958, which presents period musicals and melodramas aboard an enchanting Victorian-style riverboat. With beautiful natural settings along the Mississippi River, Saint Paul embodies a large ethnically diverse population with restaurants, cultural entertainment and shopping venues for everyone. The city sits on the bluffs overlooking the powerful Mississippi River; and visitors are just minutes away from some of the most picturesque urban lakes in the U.S.

With more than 42,000 students, Saint Paul Public Schools is Minnesota's second-largest school district. Through highly trained and deeply dedicated staff, innovative education programs, and the support of our community, SPPS offer students and families a world of opportunities. All of the schools and programs have partnerships with business, arts and cultural organizations that provide valuable enrichment opportunities. There are a total of 48 elementary schools (K-6), 2 elementary schools (K-8 or 1-8), 1 open school (K-12), 9 junior high and middle schools (6-8), 7 senior high schools (9-12), and 1 special education school.

St. Paul and Woodbury are amazingly beautiful and thriving cities. With access to a strong business community, high incomes, affordable housing, and excellent schools, this is an outstanding relocation choice. If you are considering moving to either of these award-winning cities, or would like more detailed information, please feel free to request a "free relocation package" today!