Minneapolis vs Rochester: Physician Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare physician assistant salaries between Minneapolis, MN and Rochester, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Minneapolis, MN | Rochester, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $149,845▲ | $141,900 |
| Hourly Rate | $72.05▲ | $68.22 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $112,815 | $135,845▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $135,215 | $136,847▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $165,911 | $181,327▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $189,613▲ | $181,327 |
| Total Employed | 2,340▲ | 480 |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for physician assistants, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Minneapolis and Rochester is $7,945 (5.60%). Minneapolis's median is +6.73% compared to the US national median of $140,391.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Minneapolis spans $76,798,Rochester spans $45,482. Minneapolis has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Rochester ($156,241 effective) pays 9.30% more than Minneapolis ($142,952 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Minneapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($149,845/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($189,613)
- ✓Larger job market (2,340 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $156,241)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physician assistant salaries in Minneapolis grew 22.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 14.5% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Minneapolis, MN
$118,630 (2019) → $145,030 (2025)
Rochester, MN
$119,910 (2019) → $137,340 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Minneapolis, MN
Rochester, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physician assistants more: Minneapolis or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Minneapolis and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Minneapolis to Rochester as a physician assistant?
What do entry-level physician assistants earn in Minneapolis vs Rochester?
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Written by Jessica Tran, MPAS, PA-C
Career Analyst
Jessica has 10 years of experience as a physician assistant. Her specialty is cardiology in an outpatient setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.32% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jessica Tran, MPAS, PA-C, a licensed physician assistant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov