25 Top Minnesota Newspapers List [2024 Edition]

By Intelligent Relations Team

May 31, 2023

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Known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Minnesota is home to a vibrant community of outdoor enthusiasts. The 14,000+ lakes scattered throughout the state are a playground for avid fishers, hikers, boaters, and more. 

The state is also known for the famous Mall of America, the largest shopping mall in the country. Plus, Minnesota is also home to large midwestern cities including the Twin Cities, Saint Paul and Minneapolis.

So whether you’re an outdoor brand wishing to target a market of watersports enthusiasts or a retailer interested in large malls and cities, Minnesota is a market you don’t want to miss!

Our list of Minnesota newspapers and publications includes everything from lifestyle magazines to local newspapers. We also made sure to place a special emphasis on Minneapolis newspapers. 

Our list also covers a wide-range of topics, audiences, and industries so you can get the PR and local trends and news you need.

Our Curated List of Minnesota Newspapers and Publications

Advocate Tribune (@AdvocateTribune) Advocate Tribune is a weekly newspaper based in Granite Falls, Minnesota, covering Yellow Medicine county and the surrounding areas. 

This is one of our local Minnesota newspapers focused on stories relevant to the Granite Falls community. It’s printed every Thursday, and has a print circulation of about 2,300 copies. It also covers state-wide news and national issues.

Topics covered by Advocate Tribune include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Entertainment
• Lifestyle
• Events

The Advocate Tribune also has a website, which is updated daily, as well as an active social media presence where readers can respond to content and interact with the news outlet. 

This is one of our Minnesota newspapers owned by Cherry Road Media, a national media company that owns newspapers and news organizations all over the country.

Aitkin Age (@aitkinage) Aitkin Age is a small, independent newspaper based in Aitkin, Minnesota. It’s been covering news in Aitkin County since 1883. 

This is one of our local Minnesota newspapers that offers a variety of opportunities for advertising. From featured stories to their Local Ads section, this outlet provides opportunities to reach a dedicated audience from the Aitkin community. 

The newspaper has a print circulation of about 4,700 copies and its website is updated with new content daily. 

Topics covered by Aitkin Age include:

• Local News
• Sports
• The Outdoors
• Business
• Schools
• Crime and Courts

This news outlet reports on a variety of topics, but has a robust outdoors section that features stories on boating, fishing, hiking, and more. 

It also hosts contests to keep readers engaged, including a sweepstakes to win free car payments for a year. 

Albert Lea Tribune (@altribune) The Albert Lea Tribune is one of the leading local Minnesota newspapers in Albert Lea, keeping residents informed and engaged with the latest happenings in their community. 

Since 1897, Albert Lea Tribune has covered local news and events. The paper is published in print Tuesday through Saturday, with a circulation of about 3,300 copies. 

Topics covered by Albert Lea Tribune include:

• Sports
• Education
• Business
• Politics
• Events

The Tribune covers everything from city government updates to local high school sports, ensuring that the people of Albert Lea stay connected with community news.

This outlet also publishes the Albert Lea Magazine, a lifestyle magazine that highlights the local community.

Austin Daily Herald (@austinherald) The Austin Daily Herald is a newspaper based in Austin, Minnesota, covering news in Austin and the surrounding areas. 

The news outlet covers a wide variety of topics, from local news to national headlines. 

It also publishes Austin Living Magazine, a lifestyle magazine that focuses on community happenings, and Progress 2023, another specialized publication that covers research, announcements, and the latest developments in the Austin area.  

Topics covered by Austin Daily Herald include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Entertainment
• Education
• Politics
• Research
• Events

The paper is published Tuesday through Saturday and distributed to about 16,000 households. Its website and social media accounts are updated regularly with new content and breaking news. 

Brainerd Dispatch (@brd_dispatch) The Brainerd Dispatch is a long-standing, reputable news source that’s been serving the Brainerd, Minnesota, community since 1881. 

This news outlet covers a wide variety of topics from national headlines to local news. They also offer an online guide to local events and activities. Brainerd Dispatch is one of the most vital Minnesota newspapers for the Brainerd community.

Topics covered by Brainerd Dispatch include:

• Local News
• Weather
• Sports
• Health
• Business
• Education
• Politics

In recent years, the Brainerd Dispatch has also focused on expanding its digital presence to better cater to the evolving needs of its audience. It offers a variety of opportunities for advertising including digital platforms, TV, print ads, and more. 

The news organization is owned by Forum Communications, which is the largest media organization in the upper midwest area of the country.

Crookston Times (@CrookstonTimes) The Crookston Times is a local newspaper serving the community of Crookston, Minnesota, and the surrounding areas.

Crookston Times is another of our Minnesota newspapers that covers a range of local topics, including high school sports, city council decisions, and regional news. 

Other topics covered by Crookston Times include:

• Local News
• Regional News
• Sports
• Events
• Politics
• Schools
• Lifestyle

This is a twice weekly newspaper published on weekday afternoons. It’s another of our Minnesota newspapers published by Cherry Road Media.

Republican Eagle (@republicaneagle) The Republican Eagle is an influential conservative news source based out of Cannon Falls, Minnesota. 

It’s been reporting on conservative topics and news since 1857, and is a leading voice in the Republican party. The organization is committed to upholding traditional conservative values, and supporting small government, free markets, and individual liberties. 

Topics covered by Republican Eagle include:

• Local News
• Politics
• Education
• Events
• Sports
• Business

The publication also provides lists of local events, business directories, and coverage of non-political topics. It has a print circulation of about 3,000 copies, and its website is updated regularly with new stories. 

Involved with politics? Need to write a political press release? Check out our dedicated guide: Writing a Ready-to-use Political Press Release

The Globe of Worthington (@dglobe) The Globe of Worthington is a prestigious local newspaper that’s been serving the community of Worthington for over 150 years. 

It’s a 24/7 news source that publishes a print edition of its paper every Wednesday. It also has a variety of special sections including Community Pride, Spring Sports, FFA Week, and a Valentine’s Day special

Topics covered by The Globe of Worthington include:

• Local News
• Weather
• Sports
• Health 
• Business

Though The Globe reports on national news, it’s another of our Minnesota newspapers that’s focused on topics relevant to the Worthington community. It also includes a range of multimedia content to support its reporting including photos, videos, and newsletters. 

Daily Journal (@JournalNewsroom) The Daily Journal, based in Fergus Falls, Minnesota, has been the cornerstone of its community for generations. 

This publication is printed every Wednesday and Saturday with a circulation of about 3,000 copies. It also publishes a shopping guide and a lifestyle magazine, Lake Country Living Magazine. The magazine has a circulation of 6,000 copies and is distributed throughout Otter Tail, Grant, and Wilkin counties. 

Topics covered by Daily Journal include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Schools 
• Politics
• Lifestyle

Serving as the primary Minnesota newspaper for the region, Daily Journal covers local news, sports, weather, and community events. It’s been covering the Fergus Falls area since 1873.

Mesabi Tribune (@MesabiTribune) The Mesabi Tribune, one of the most revered Minnesota newspapers from the heart of the state, has delivered consistent and reliable in-depth news coverage for over a century. 

It covers news and events in the Virginia and Hibbing area of Minnesota. It has a circulation of about 8,000 copies and is printed daily.

Topics covered by Mesabi Tribune include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Events
• Schools
• Politics
• Lifestyle

As the main source of information for the Virginia community, Mesabi Tribune is one of the most trusted Minnesota newspapers for residents across the region.

Detroit Lakes Tribune (@DLNewspapers) The Detroit Lakes Tribune is one of our prominent Minnesota newspapers. It covers the Detroit Lakes and Becker County area.

As a well-respected news source, the Tribune covers a wide range of topics from local events to national and international news. Yet the paper still focuses on matters that have a direct impact on the residents of the Detroit Lakes area. 

Detroit Lakes Tribune is published every Sunday with a circulation of about 4,500 copies.

Topics covered by Detroit Lakes Tribune include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Weather
• Health 
• Politics
• Lifestyle

This newspaper has been serving the Detroit Lakes area for over 150 years. It has an app, daily online paper, and a robust website that offers readers 24/7 news coverage of the area. 

Pioneer Press (@PioneerPress) Pioneer Press is a news organization based in the Twin Cities, and covers a range of news topics from St. Paul, Minnesota. 

It’s one of the top Minnesota newspapers, and has been reporting on the area since 1849. 

It has a circulation of about 125,000 copies for its weekday edition and 183,000 copies for its Sunday edition. Its circulation is heaviest in the east metro area including Ramsey, Dakota, and Washington counties.

Topics covered by Star Tribune include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Food
• Events
• Politics
• Lifestyle

This outlet offers interstate exposure, covering parts of western Wisconsin.

It also offers a variety of resources for Twin City residents and visitors alike, including an events calendar, an activities guide, contact lists, and a marketplace. 

Interested in PR coverage or local news and trends in Wisconsin? Then you’ll want to check out our dedicated list of Wisconsin newspapers for 2024! Read more here: Top Wisconsin Newspapers and Publications Roundup [2024 Edition]

People’s Press (@OwatonnaNews) The People’s Press, also known as Owatonna News, is a local news organization. It’s dedicated to providing the community of Owatonna and its surrounding areas with reliable and relevant news updates. 

It covers a wide range of topics, but focuses on news relevant to the local community. Some highlights of its content include an annual “Best of the Best” list that highlights notable businesses, people, and events in the Owatonna area. 

Topics covered by People’s Press include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Weather
• Real Estate
• Events
• Business

The newspaper is published in print four days a week with a circulation of about 3,000. 

It also publishes a notable shopping guide called the Owatonna Area Shopper which is distributed throughout the city. 

Winona Daily News (@WinonaDailyNews) Winona Daily News is one of our Minnesota newspapers dedicated to Winona, Minnesota. It’s been serving its community with the latest news, events, and updates since 1855.

This newspaper has a circulation of about 2,600 copies for its weekday paper. Its website is updated daily and provides readers with a range of multimedia content, including photography, videos, and opinion pieces. 

Topics covered by Winona Daily News include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Entertainment
• Lifestyle
• Crime
• Education
• Events

From politics and education to sports and entertainment, the Winona Daily News ensures its readers stay connected to the pulse of the city.

Mankato Free Press (@Mankatonews) The Mankato Free Press is a daily newspaper based in Mankato, Minnesota, serving the communities of Blue Earth, Nicollet, Le Sueur, Waseca, and Watonwan counties. 

The newspaper was established in 1887, and is committed to providing local news coverage and insightful commentary for the people of the region. The publication covers a wide range of topics, including breaking news, sports, business, entertainment, and local events.

Topics covered by Mankato Free Press include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Weather
• Business
• Entertainment
• Politics
• Events

This is one of the Minnesota newspapers on the list that’s won multiple awards for its reporting and digital content. 

It also hosts an annual “Best of Mankato” competition where readers can vote on the best businesses, leaders, and events throughout the city. 

Post Bulletin (@PB_News) The Post Bulletin is one of the most trusted Minnesota newspapers based in Rochester, Minnesota. 

It provides local, regional, and national news to its readers, with a focus on stories relevant to the local community. 

It also has a variety of resources for locals and visitors in the Rochester area, including contests, travel guides, and a public safety bulletin. 

Topics covered by Post Bulletin include:

• Local News
• Education
• Schools
• Sports
• Weather
• Health
• Events

With a history that spans over 150 years, the Post Bulletin has established itself as a reliable source of information for the people of Rochester, Minnesota, and the surrounding areas. 

Minnesota Daily (@mndailynews) The Minnesota Daily is a student-run newspaper that serves the University of Minnesota and surrounding communities. 

It was founded in 1900, and has since become one of the largest college newspapers in the United States with a circulation of over 10,000 copies for its weekly publication. 

The Daily covers a wide range of topics, including campus news, sports, arts and entertainment, and local and national news. 

Topics covered by Minnesota Daily include:

• Local News
• Arts and Culture
• Entertainment
• Sports
• Health 
• Events 

The paper is printed four days a week, Monday through Thursday, during the academic year.

Minnesota Daily is a widely-respected student newspaper. It’s won several awards throughout the years. Plus, it’s been twice named the “Best Daily College Newspaper” by the Society of Professional Journalists. 

West Central Tribune (@wctrib) West Central Tribune is a daily newspaper based in Willmar, Minnesota, serving the surrounding communities of west-central Minnesota. 

In addition to its local and national news coverage, the West Central Tribune publishes a variety of special sections. These sections provide a range of advertising opportunities from specific sports placement to its 55-and-older publication, Generations. 

Topics covered by West Central Tribune include:

• Local News
• Weather
• Sports
• Health 
• Lifestyle
• Events

Established in 1895, West Central Tribune has a long-standing history of providing news, sports, and community events coverage to its readership. It’s also another of our Minnesota newspapers that’s won numerous awards for journalistic excellence, including the Minnesota Newspaper Association’s “Newspaper of the Year” award.

The Journal (@TheJournalMN) The Journal is a reputable publication based in Ulm, Minnesota, known for its in-depth coverage of local news and events. 

The Journal covers a wide range of news topics relevant to the Ulm community from national headlines to local stories. It has a circulation of about 4,600 copies and is distributed throughout Ulm and the surrounding areas. 

Topics covered by The Journal include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Lifestyle
• Politics
• Business
• Events

It has a strong online presence with a website and social media platforms that keep readers informed and engaged. 

Echo Press (@echopress) The Echo Press is a community newspaper that serves the residents of the Alexandria, Minnesota, area. It provides in-depth coverage of local news, events, and happenings to keep the community informed and engaged. 

Echo Press has been serving the Alexandria community for over 130 years. Its print edition is published every Wednesday and Friday.

Topics covered by Echo Press include:

• Local News
• Schools
• Education
• Courts and Crime
• Weather
• Sports
• Events

The Echo Press also features columns and editorials that offer opinions and perspectives on local issues. They also publish a shopping guide, The Shopper, which is distributed to over 17,800 households in Alexandria each week. 

5 Top Minneapolis Newspapers and Publications for 2024

Star Tribune (@StarTribune) The Star Tribune is one of the leading Minneapolis newspapers and one of the top news organizations in Minnesota. It’s dedicated to providing its readers with accurate and comprehensive news coverage. 

This is the 5th largest news organization in the U.S. Its website is the most-visited website in the state, attracting over 7 million unique visitors each month. Its print newspaper is read by over 1.4 million adults every week.

Topics covered by Star Tribune include:

• Local News
• Sports
• Business
• Events
• Politics
• Automobiles

As the state’s largest newspaper, Star Tribune has a long-standing history of journalistic excellence and has won multiple awards for its reporting, including a Pulitzer Prize in 2021 for breaking news.

The paper’s digital platform, StarTribune.com, complements its print edition by offering round-the-clock access to news, sports, entertainment, and other engaging content.

Finance and Commerce (@BusinessMN) Finance and Commerce is a business news outlet covering all business related topics in Minnesota. 

Finance and Commerce is one of the most widely-read Minneapolis newspapers focused on business news topics. It’s maintained its spot as the number one business news outlet in the state for over 135 years.

Over 85% of its readers identify as leaders in their organizations. 

Topics covered by Finance and Commerce include:

• Business
• Construction
• Real Estate
• The Economy
• Technology
• Events

Finance and Commerce uses data-driven reporting for its stories. It also provides in-depth analysis on economic topics and issues spanning multiple industries.

Want a dedicated list of the top business publications for 2024? Check out our article: 40 Top Business Publications for PR in 2024

The Circle News (@TheCircleNews) The Circle News is a Native American news and arts publication based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

The Circle News has been covering Native American news and culture since 1980, and is one of the most trusted Minneapolis newspapers for the Native American community. Its coverage spans a variety of topics including profile pieces, resources, and culture.

Topics covered by Circle News include:

• Local News
• Culture
• History
• The Environment
• Business
• Politics

The Circle News is the official newspaper for Minnesota’s 11 reservations and urban Native American communities. The paper has over 45,000 readers and offers a variety of advertising opportunities. 

Southwest Journal (@SWjournal) The Southwest Journal is a local digital newspaper based in the southwestern area of Minneapolis. 

The newspaper has a strong presence on Twitter, allowing it to reach a wider audience and keep the community updated in real-time. 

Topics covered by Southwest Journal include:

• Animals
• Gardening
• Food
• Business
• Tourism
• Climate Change

With a focus on in-depth coverage and local perspectives, the Journal provides valuable information and insights to its readers. While foremost a digital publication, this is one of the more important Minneapolis newspapers for the community it serves. 

Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder (@MNSpokesman) The Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder is a notable African American newspaper based out of Minneapolis, Minnesota. 

Since 1934, Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder  has been one of the top  Minneapolis newspapers bringing breaking news to the African American community. It has a circulation of about 9,800 copies.

Topics covered by Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder include:

• Local News
• Politics
• History
• Sports
• Health and Wellness
• Arts and Culture
• Lifestyle
• Events

With a focus on community-oriented journalism, the Spokesman-Recorder is committed to providing a platform for the voices and perspectives of the African American community. 

As one of the oldest and most respected African American newspapers in the country, it has a rich history of providing in-depth coverage of news, culture, and events that impact the local community. 

Wrapping Up

Whether you’re looking for local PR or news, our list of Minnesota newspapers should give you a head start. While we emphasized local, community publications, we also made sure to include a special section for Minneapolis newspapers.

Use our list to stay informed and take advantage of advertising and local targeting across Minnesota. Plus, stay up on the latest trends as you get started on this midwestern market.

For access to more publications tailored to your specific business activity, book a free consultation with us. You’ll get AI-assisted, expert insight into how to improve your PR efforts!