What Are People From Minnesota Called
People from Minnesota are called Minnesotans. The term is used in official government communications, business filings, and media references to describe residents of the state. The U.S. Census Bureau reports the latest population estimates for Minnesota, which help define the size and density of the Minnesotan population. The state's capital is Saint Paul, and its largest city is Minneapolis, both of which are frequently cited alongside the demonym Minnesotan in economic and demographic reports.
Minnesota ranks among the top states for workforce participation and education levels, which reinforces the identity of Minnesotans in labor market data. The state's major metropolitan area, Minneapolis-Saint Paul, is often referenced as the Twin Cities, and residents of this region are included in the broader Minnesotan label. Federal agencies, including the Bureau of Labor Statistics, use the term Minnesotan when publishing employment, income, and migration statistics for the state.
Minnesota Population and Economic Profile
Minnesota has a population of approximately 5.7 million, making it one of the larger Midwestern states by total residents. The state's gross domestic product ranks in the top 20 nationally, driven by sectors such as finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. Major corporations headquartered in Minnesota include Target, UnitedHealth Group, 3M, and General Mills, all of which employ large numbers of Minnesotans and contribute to the state's economic profile.
Minnesota consistently ranks high in metrics such as median household income, educational attainment, and health insurance coverage. The Minnesota State Demographic Center publishes annual population estimates and projections, which are used by businesses and policymakers to track trends among Minnesotans. The state's unemployment rate has remained below the national average in recent years, reflecting strong labor market conditions for Minnesotans.
Key Industries and Companies Based in Minnesota
Fortune 500 and Major Employers
Several Fortune 500 companies are headquartered in Minnesota, including UnitedHealth Group, Target, 3M, and General Mills. These firms are major employers of Minnesotans and contribute significantly to the state's tax base and economic output. The Twin Cities metropolitan area hosts a dense network of corporate headquarters, regional offices, and startups, reinforcing Minnesota's role as a business hub.
Minnesota is also home to large healthcare systems such as Mayo Clinic and HealthPartners, which are among the top employers in the state. The financial sector is anchored by companies like US Bancorp and Ecolab, both of which are headquartered in Minnesota and employ thousands of Minnesotans. The state's economic data, including employment figures and industry growth rates, is published by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.
Technology and Innovation
Minnesota has a growing technology sector, with companies such as Optum and Cerner (now part of Oracle Health) operating major facilities in the state. The Twin Cities are frequently cited in rankings of top U.S. metro areas for startups and venture capital activity. Federal data on patents, R&D spending, and STEM employment often highlight Minnesota as a leading state for innovation and technical talent among Minnesotans.
Agriculture and Manufacturing
Agriculture remains a key part of Minnesota's economy, with the state ranking among the top producers of corn, soybeans, sugar beets, and turkeys. Manufacturing sectors, including medical devices, machinery, and food processing, employ significant numbers of Minnesotans. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Minnesota Department of Agriculture publish data on farm income, commodity prices, and export volumes that shape the economic narrative for the state.
Education and Workforce
Minnesota is known for a highly educated workforce, with above-average rates of bachelor's and advanced degree attainment. Major universities such as