Best cities to move to at 18 with $13k savings?

I’m planning to move out of state at 18 (in about 9 months) with a roommate, and I’ll personally have around $13,000 saved as an emergency fund, plus whatever I can save in the next 9 months (hopefully $3–4k or more). We’re looking to settle in Saint Paul or nearby first-ring suburbs. We’ll be first-time renters, splitting rent and utilities, and want to live below our means while gaining independence and building life skills. We’re aiming for a 2-bedroom in the $900–$1,400 range.

What areas in Saint Paul or the surrounding suburbs make sense for someone in this position? Ideally, somewhere with suburban safety, reasonable rent, access to work/city life, and snowy winters places where an 18-year-old starting out could realistically live, learn, and grow