Not necessarily.

When I hit MSP for a six-month gig a couple of years ago, I did just about that. Spend a couple of weeks checking out the areas, prices, and so on.

I wound up in Coon Rapids where I got a very good rate at a Marriott prop, and they took care of me like a king (I was plat at the time). Plenty to do in the neighborhood, too.

Your needs and/or budget may be different, but if you know you're going to be in an area for some time, it's usually best to check out the whole place before you commit to anything.