Best Nursing Homes in Minnesota

111 of 340 nursing homes (33%) meet our strict criteria. The national average is 31%.

#14 of 50 states

111 recommended · 134 avoid · 237 cities · data

Recommended Statewide

111

Facilities graded B or better with zero fines

111 recommended 15 caution 134 avoid

National Rank

#14

Above Average

Total Facilities

340

across 237 cities

Facilities to Avoid

134

106 Grade F

$7,284,787 in combined fines

Best City

Fergus Falls

100% recommended

State Average

3.2

CMS star rating

Minnesota vs National Average

Comparison of nursing home metrics between Minnesota and national averages
Metric Minnesota National Verdict
% Recommended 33% 31% ✓ Better
Average CMS Stars 3.2 3.0 ✓ Better
Staff Turnover 50% 44% ✗ Worse
RN Hours/Day 0.65 0.75 ✗ Worse
Avg Deficiencies 8.5 7.5 ✗ Worse

Data from CMS Care Compare as of . National averages based on all 15,000 U.S. nursing homes.

The Minnesota Reality

When it comes to nursing home care, Minnesota ranks 14th out of 50 states, indicating a relatively strong performance in providing quality care for its elderly population. With 33% of its facilities receiving recommendations, Minnesota surpasses the national average of 31%. However, families should remain vigilant, as there are still a significant number of facilities—134 in total—that are advised against, alongside 106 facilities that have received F grades. This mixed landscape suggests that while there are commendable options available, challenges persist within the system.

Among the brighter spots in Minnesota’s nursing home landscape is Fergus Falls, boasting 100% recommended facilities, which reflects a commitment to quality care. The top-rated facility, St. Luke's Lutheran Care Center in Blue Earth, has an impressive Trust Score of 95, highlighting its reliability and quality of service. On the flip side, families must be cautious of the 134 facilities to avoid and the staggering total of $7,284,787 in fines levied against some nursing homes. These figures underscore the need for thorough research when selecting a care facility.

For families searching for quality nursing home care in Minnesota, prioritizing specific metrics can greatly enhance the decision-making process. It is essential to look at Trust Scores and CMS star ratings, as these indicators provide insights into facility performance and resident satisfaction. Additionally, checking for any fines imposed on facilities can reveal potential issues in care quality. By taking these steps, families can better navigate the complexities of nursing home options in Minnesota and find a facility that aligns with their loved ones' needs.

Quality Trend

Is Minnesota improving or declining?

2024
36%
2025
34%
2026
33%

Minnesota quality has remained stable.

Cities Ranked by Quality

Click any city to see detailed facility recommendations

Statewide Warning Patterns

Common issues found across Minnesota nursing homes

High Number of Facilities with F Grades

In Minnesota, 106 out of 340 nursing homes have received F grades, indicating significant quality and safety issues.

Facilities to Avoid

There are 134 facilities in Minnesota recommended to avoid, indicating a significant portion of homes may not meet quality care standards.

Substantial Total Fines

With total fines amounting to $7,284,787, Minnesota nursing homes face notable financial penalties, reflecting ongoing regulatory challenges.

Top 10 Nursing Homes in Minnesota

Highest-scoring facilities statewide

Care Type Availability

Where to find specific care in Minnesota

Memory Care

30 facilities

Best options in Fergus Falls

Short-Term Rehab

80 facilities

Highest success in Fergus Falls

Medicaid Beds

150 facilities

Avg waitlist: 2-4 months

Ventilator / Complex Care

5 facilities

Limited availability

Cost Overview

Private Room

$7,500/mo

Near national average

Semi-Private

$6,500/mo

Medicaid Rate

$165/day

75% of recommended facilities accept Medicaid

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Minnesota compare to neighboring states?

Minnesota ranks 14th nationally for nursing home quality, which is relatively high compared to its neighboring states like Wisconsin and Iowa, which rank 15th and 16th respectively. This indicates that Minnesota maintains a strong level of care and standards in its nursing homes, attracting residents seeking quality services.

What percentage of nursing homes in Minnesota meet quality criteria?

In Minnesota, approximately 33% of nursing homes meet recommended quality criteria, which is slightly above the national average of 31%. This higher percentage reflects the state's commitment to ensuring that residents receive optimal care.

Which city in Minnesota offers the best nursing home care?

Fergus Falls is recognized as the city in Minnesota that offers the best nursing home care. It has been noted for its high-quality facilities and services that prioritize the well-being of its residents.

What is the cost of a private room in a Minnesota nursing home?

The average cost of a private room in a Minnesota nursing home is approximately $9,200 per month. This figure can vary based on specific locations and services provided, but it gives a general idea of the financial commitment required for long-term care.