Minnesota — 320,000 city

Radon in St. Paul,
MN

St. Paul shares Minnesota's Zone 1 radon risk. The city's bluff-side neighborhoods overlook the Mississippi River valley — a geological setting that elevates radon risk. MDH testing data consistently shows elevated levels in older Ramsey County homes.

Risk Level

Very High Risk

3–8 pCi/L

Typical range (area avg.)

EPA action level: 4 pCi/L

Why St. Paul Has Very High Risk Radon

St. Paul's geology includes bluff-forming limestone and sandstone formations that can channel radon from deep underground. The city's Summit Hill and Cathedral Hill neighborhoods sit on bluff edges with particularly variable radon behavior.

Local Housing and Radon Risk

St. Paul has an exceptional stock of Victorian, Craftsman, and Tudor revival homes in neighborhoods like Summit-University and Dayton's Bluff. These older full-basement homes typically have more radon entry points than modern construction.

Testing Advice for St. Paul Residents

The Minnesota Department of Health provides free radon test kits to residents at selected community events. Check their website for current distribution dates. Otherwise, $15–$25 short-term kits are widely available.

How to Test Your St. Paul 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 St. Paul'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–$1,600 installed in the St. Paul area.

Frequently Asked Questions — Radon in St. Paul

Is radon a real problem in St. Paul?

Yes. St. Paul shares Minnesota's Zone 1 radon risk. The city's bluff-side neighborhoods overlook the Mississippi River valley — a geological setting that elevates radon risk. MDH testing data consistently shows elevated levels in older Ramsey County homes. 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 St. Paul area, professional radon mitigation (sub-slab depressurization) typically costs $900–$1,600 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.