Minnesota is an area.
Minnesota ( [ [ ˌmɪnəˈso̞ɾɐ ] help = no ] ) is a state in the midwestern and northern regions of the United States . Minnesota 's standard of living index is among the highest in the United States , and the state is also among the best-educated and wealthiest in the nation . The United States Census Bureau defines the Rochester , Minnesota Metropolitan Statistical Area as an area consisting of three counties in southeast Minnesota , anchored by the city of Rochester .