Maple Grove ranks No. 2 on Money's 'Best Places to Live' list

Maple Grove earned high marks in Money Magazine's national "Best Places to Live" list.

The Minneapolis suburb ranked No. 2 on the magazine's Top 50 list of U.S. cities with populations of 50,000 to 300,000. Great bike paths, housing prices, ample outdoor space for recreation and a thriving arts community helped propel the city to its top ranking.

"The heart of the city is Town Green, a lakeside park and amphitheater that hosts music, dance, theater, and outdoor movies, " Money Magazine's report included. "The nearby library, opened recently, and community center are other hotspots."

The article goes on to say that while the suburb doesn't have a classic, historic downtown area, "its Main Sreet shopping development and nearby Shoppes at Arbor Lakes are good proxy, with a mix of local and chain shops and restaurants."

Maple Grove city leaders believe a wide range of factors earned the honor including housing, jobs and general quality of life.

"We're absolutely thrilled. We give total credit to our fantastic city employees," Maple Grove City Administrator Al Madsen said. "They make awards like this possible."

Madsen said the city offers recreational activities year round which is also a selling point.

Money Magazine also put Eagan at No. 11 and Woodbury at No.12 on its "Best Places to Live" national rankings.