Minneapolis and St. Paul Ranked Among the Top U.S. Cities for Women’s Sports
The Twin Cities continue to collect national recognition, and the latest honor puts a spotlight on one of the strongest parts of our sports culture. Minneapolis and St. Paul have officially been named the number two city in the United States for women’s sports by The Athletic. The ranking highlights the strength of local teams, the dedication of Minnesota fans and the broader support system that makes women’s athletics thrive here.
A Lineup of Championship-Level Teams
The ranking features the Minnesota Lynx, one of the most successful franchises in WNBA history. Their long run of playoff appearances and four championships elevated the profile of women’s basketball statewide. The Minnesota Frost brings elite professional women’s hockey to St. Paul and continues to draw strong fan support.
The University of Minnesota Golden Gophers women’s hockey program also plays a major role in the ranking. Known nationally for producing championship teams and Olympic athletes, the Gophers have been a cornerstone of Minnesota sports culture for years.
Minnesota Aurora, a community-owned women’s soccer club, has become a breakout story. The team regularly fills stadiums, builds a strong local following and has become an example of how grassroots support can fuel a growing league.
A Community That Shows Up
Minnesota doesn’t just support women’s sports with words. Fans show up in person. The Athletic specifically highlighted the crowd energy, turnout and the consistency of Minnesota’s backing. Minneapolis also stands out as one of the few U.S. cities with a dedicated women’s sports bar. A Bar of Their Own is a sign that local support extends beyond game day.
The University of Minnesota’s Tucker Center for Research on Girls and Women in Sport adds another layer. Their research influences national conversations and pushes forward opportunities for women in athletics.
A Growing Market With New Teams Coming
The women’s sports landscape in Minnesota continues to grow. New professional women’s volleyball teams are scheduled to launch in 2027. The Twin Cities already offer strong competition and fan support, and the addition of new teams only reinforces the region’s status as a national leader.
What This Means for Minnesota Residents
For people living in the Twin Cities, rankings like this reflect a community that values equality, opportunity and local pride. For families with young athletes, it signals access to top-tier programs and role models. For anyone considering a move, it showcases a sports culture that offers something unique.
Minnesota continues to build a reputation as one of the best places to live, work and play. And as the women’s sports scene grows, the energy around it keeps spreading through the entire region.
If you’re thinking about making a move in the Twin Cities, I’m always here to help you navigate the market with clear guidance and local expertise.
