Rochester vs Winona: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Rochester, MN and Winona, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rochester, MN | Winona, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,603▲ | $97,237 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.32▲ | $46.75 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,040▲ | $75,937 |
| 25th Percentile | $97,429▲ | $82,548 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,452 | $112,230▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $130,964▲ | $122,221 |
| Total Employed | 410▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Rochester, MN offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Winona.
The salary gap between Rochester and Winona is $5,366 (5.52%). Rochester's median is -2.55% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rochester spans $48,924,Winona spans $46,284. Rochester 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 ($112,973 effective) pays 14.44% more than Winona ($98,718 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,603/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($130,964)
- ✓Larger job market (410 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,973)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Winona if…
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Rochester grew 15.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 10.5% growth in Winona over the same period.
Rochester, MN
$86,390 (2019) → $100,140 (2025)
Winona, MN
$85,880 (2024) → $94,902 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rochester, MN
Winona, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
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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