Originally farmland that transformed into a suburban community, Maplewood gained prominence as home to the 3M Corporation's sprawling 409-acre global headquarters campus. Located just ten minutes from downtown Saint Paul, this eastern suburb spans 18 square miles with excellent transportation access via six major highways including Interstates 35E, 94, 694, and 494, making commuting convenient throughout the Twin Cities.

Rental options in Maplewood include townhomes and boutique apartment communities with average monthly rents around $1,284. The housing landscape features established neighborhoods like Gladstone and Beaver Lake with mature trees and spacious lots. Maplewood Mall and the surrounding retail district offer shopping at major retailers, while the extensive Battle Creek Regional Park system and Fish Creek Preserve provide year-round outdoor recreation opportunities.

Maplewood's neighborhoods offer a relaxed suburban setting while maintaining quick access to both downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. M Health Fairview St. John's Hospital serves as a major healthcare employer, while the city's location near both downtowns provides easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The established neighborhoods and strong employment base have helped maintain Maplewood as a stable rental market in the Twin Cities metro area.