Minneapolis vs Rochester: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist 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 | $104,970▲ | $102,603 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.47▲ | $49.32 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $88,720▲ | $82,040 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,806▲ | $97,429 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,360▲ | $105,452 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $124,325 | $130,964▲ |
| Total Employed | 3,360▲ | 410 |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Minneapolis and Rochester is $2,367 (2.31%). 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,Rochester spans $48,924. Rochester has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced physical therapists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Rochester ($112,973 effective) pays 12.81% 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)
- ✓Larger job market (3,360 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($130,964)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,973)
- ✓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 15.9% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Minneapolis, MN
$83,940 (2019) → $102,450 (2025)
Rochester, MN
$86,390 (2019) → $100,140 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Minneapolis, MN
Rochester, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Minneapolis or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Minneapolis and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Minneapolis to Rochester as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Minneapolis vs Rochester?
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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