Minneapolis vs Duluth: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Minneapolis, MN and Duluth, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Minneapolis, MN | Duluth, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $104,970▲ | $99,069 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.47▲ | $47.63 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $88,720▲ | $80,779 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,806▲ | $83,618 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,360▲ | $104,489 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $124,325▲ | $112,317 |
| Total Employed | 3,360▲ | 270 |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Duluth.
The salary gap between Minneapolis and Duluth is $5,901 (5.96%). Minneapolis's median is -0.30% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Minneapolis spans $35,605,Duluth spans $31,538. 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, Duluth ($111,604 effective) pays 11.45% more than Minneapolis ($100,141 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 ($104,970/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($124,325)
- ✓Larger job market (3,360 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Duluth if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $111,604)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Minneapolis grew 22.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 17.3% growth in Duluth over the same period.
Minneapolis, MN
$83,940 (2019) → $102,450 (2025)
Duluth, MN
$82,400 (2019) → $96,690 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Minneapolis, MN
Duluth, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Minneapolis or Duluth?
What is the hourly rate difference between Minneapolis and Duluth?
Should I relocate from Minneapolis to Duluth as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Minneapolis vs Duluth?
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Written by Alex Morgan, DPT
Career Analyst
Alex Morgan has over 10 years of experience in physical therapy. They specialize in orthopedic rehabilitation. Alex works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.46% 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 Alex Morgan, DPT, a licensed physical therapist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov