Overdose Deaths in Minnesota Continue to Decrease

October 30, 2025

For the second year in a row, Minnesota saw a drop in overdose deaths and hospitalizations, Gov. Tim Walz announced on October 28. 

Overdose deaths decreased 26%, from 2023 to 2024, while hospital-treated nonfatal overdoses decreased 19%. These decreases were seen in nearly every region of the state and across demographics.  

“This decline in overdose deaths and hospitalizations shows what can happen when partners come together with a shared goal,” said Brooke Cunningham, MD, PhD, Minnesota’s commissioner of health. “This progress is thanks to the collaboration of communities, state and local governments, Tribal Nations, healthcare providers, and public health and safety.” 

The largest decrease in overdose deaths, 31%, occurred in greater Minnesota counties, while metro counties experienced a 23% decrease. 

In 2024, opioid-involved deaths in Minnesota decreased by 32%, including a 35% decline in synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl. All other opioid-related categories, including prescribed opioids, heroin, and methadone, continued to decline. Nonfatal overdoses also decreased across all other substance categories, with nearly 15 nonfatal overdoses treated in hospitals for every one overdose death. This downward trend reflects a national pattern, and underscores the effectiveness of sustained prevention and overdose prevention strategies. 

Read the full report here: Statewide Trends in Drug Overdose: 2024 Data Update.