Minnesota — 3.7M metro

Radon in Minneapolis,
MN

Minneapolis is in EPA Zone 1 — the highest-risk category. Minnesota Department of Health reports that 40% of tested homes statewide exceed 4 pCi/L, with Twin Cities urban areas showing consistent elevation due to the region's granite and glacial geology.

Risk Level

Very High Risk

3–9 pCi/L

Typical range (area avg.)

EPA action level: 4 pCi/L

Why Minneapolis Has Very High Risk Radon

The Twin Cities sit on a mix of glacial till and bedrock that includes granitic materials rich in uranium. The Mississippi River valley's bedrock geology — particularly St. Peter Sandstone over Prairie du Chien dolomite — creates natural radon pathways.

Local Housing and Radon Risk

Minneapolis has a wide range of housing ages, with many pre-war bungalows and Craftsman homes in Uptown, South Minneapolis, and Northeast. Full basements are common and radon accumulates there first.

Testing Advice for Minneapolis Residents

Minnesota law requires radon disclosure in real estate transactions. If buying a home, request the most recent test results and conduct your own test independently. Testing kits are available at Menards, Home Depot, and online.

How to Test Your Minneapolis Home

Step 1: Choose Your Test Type

For initial screening, a charcoal short-term test kit ($12–$25) placed for 48–96 hours provides a quick result. For the most accurate reading, a long-term alpha-track test ($20–$35) left in place for 90+ days accounts for seasonal variation — especially important in Minneapolis's climate.

Step 2: Place the Test Correctly

Test in your lowest livable level — basement if you have one, otherwise the first floor. Keep the test 20 inches from the floor, away from windows and exterior walls. Close windows and doors 12 hours before and during the test for accurate results.

Step 3: Interpret Your Results

Below 2 pCi/L: low concern, retest every 2 years. 2–4 pCi/L: consider mitigation, retest in 2 years. 4 pCi/L or higher: the EPA recommends mitigation. Above 8 pCi/L: prioritize mitigation promptly.

Step 4: Hire a Certified Mitigator if Needed

If your test result is at or above 4 pCi/L, hire a certified radon mitigator. In Minnesota, always verify your contractor's state certification. Sub-slab depressurization — the most effective mitigation method — typically costs $900–$1,700 installed in the Minneapolis area.

Frequently Asked Questions — Radon in Minneapolis

Is radon a real problem in Minneapolis?

Yes. Minneapolis is in EPA Zone 1 — the highest-risk category. Minnesota Department of Health reports that 40% of tested homes statewide exceed 4 pCi/L, with Twin Cities urban areas showing consistent elevation due to the region's granite and glacial geology. The EPA recommends all homes be tested regardless of location — radon levels can vary significantly even between neighboring properties.

How much does radon mitigation cost in this area?

In the Minneapolis area, professional radon mitigation (sub-slab depressurization) typically costs $900–$1,700 installed. This is a one-time cost that reduces radon by 50–99%. The system requires minimal maintenance and a mitigator can typically complete the work in 3–5 hours.

Should I test if I have a new home?

Absolutely. New homes built with radon-resistant features still show elevated levels in testing — construction conditions and local geology vary too much to assume any home is safe. Test within the first year of occupancy, especially if your home has a basement.

Can I test radon myself, or do I need a professional?

DIY testing is reliable and recommended as a first step. Short-term kits ($12–$25) and long-term kits ($20–$35) are accurate when placed and returned correctly. Professional testing is only required for real estate transactions in some states. If your DIY test shows elevated levels, use a certified professional for both confirmation testing and mitigation.