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West St. Paul, MN

Frequently asked questions

West St. Paul, MN

West St. Paul is a city in Dakota County, Minnesota, United States. The population was 20,615 at the 2020 census. It is immediately south of Saint Paul and immediately west of South St. Paul. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 5.01 square miles (12.98 km2), of which 4.91 square miles (12.72 km2) is land and 0.10 square miles (0.26 km2) is water.

U.S. Highway 52 (also known as the Lafayette Freeway), Robert Street, and Minnesota Highway 62 are three of West St. Paul's main routes. Interstate Highway 494 runs just south of the city and Minnesota Highway 3 (unmarked Route 952) runs through the middle of the city and into downtown Saint Paul as Robert Street. Robert Street was named for Captain Louis Robert, a Mississippi River boat captain and early French-Canadian settler of Saint Paul.

The city's misleading name comes in part from the fact that it lies on the west bank of the predominantly north-to-south Mississippi River. A previous City of West St. Paul, incorporated in the late 19th century, was situated in what is now called Saint Paul's Lower West Side. According to the West 7th/Fort Road Foundation, Saint Paul annexed the West Side, and was incorporated for two reasons: "to aid law enforcement—criminals could escape Saint Paul authorities by crossing to the West Side and Dakota County—and to eliminate the Wabasha Street Bridge tolls which were inhibiting development on the West Side." The current West St. Paul split from the western half of South St. Paul and was incorporated in 1889, just south of the city of Saint Paul. The population was 20,615 at the 2020 census, growing by 1,075 since 2010 census. West Saint Paul is known for its 2.5-mile retail strip along Robert Street.

As of the census of 2010, there were 19,540 people, 8,529 households, and 4,751 families living in the city. The population density was 3,979.6 inhabitants per square mile (1,536.5/km2). There were 9,139 housing units at an average density of 1,861.3 per square mile (718.7/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 78.0% White, 6.0% African American, 0.9% Native American, 2.2% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 8.6% from other races, and 4.3% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 19.5% of the population.

West St. Paul places a strong emphasis on health and wellness, providing residents with access to various facilities and programs. West St. Paul boasts healthcare facilities like Regions Hospital, ensuring that residents have access to quality medical services. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs offered by the West St. Paul Parks and Recreation Department. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include YMCA, Planet Fitness, and Anytime Fitness. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around West St. Paul, such as Weschcke Park and Marthaler Park. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in West St. Paul, MN are Minnesota History Center, James J. Hill House, and Mississippi National River and Recreation Area

Population: 21,722 (2023). ZIP Code 55118. Area code(s) 651. Elevation: 1,027 ft (313 m). Area: 5.01 sq mi (12.98 km2).

FAQs

Is West St. Paul, MN a good place to live?

West St. Paul is in Dakota County and is one of the best places to live in Minnesota. Living in West St. Paul offers residents an urban suburban mix feel and most residents own their homes. In West St. Paul there are a lot of bars, restaurants, coffee shops, and parks. Many families, young professionals, and retirees live in West St. Paul and residents tend to have moderate political views. 

What is the poverty rate in West St. Paul, MN?

In 2022, the median household income of West St. Paul households was $68,359. West St. Paul households made slightly more than Brookston households ($68,333) and Beaver Bay households ($68,333). However, 6.4% of West St. Paul families live in poverty.

What is the crime rate in West St. Paul, MN?

With a crime rate of 44 per one thousand residents, West St. Paul has one of the highest crime rates in America compared to all communities of all sizes - from the smallest towns to the very largest cities. One's chance of becoming a victim of either violent or property crime here is one in 23. Within Minnesota, more than 98% of the communities have a lower crime rate than West St. Paul.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of West St. Paul

Regions Hospital

West St. Paul Parks and Recreation Department

YMCA

Planet Fitness 

Anytime Fitness

Weschcke Park 

Marthaler Park

Minnesota History Center

James J. Hill House

Mississippi National River and Recreation Area

Niche

Minnesota Demographics

Neighborhoodscout

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