Minneapolis vs Rochester: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer 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 | $104,134▲ | $99,935 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.07▲ | $48.04 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,857 | $79,465▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $86,391▲ | $84,353 |
| 75th Percentile | $133,827▲ | $133,631 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $161,111▲ | $144,510 |
| Total Employed | 4,450▲ | 120 |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Minneapolis and Rochester is $4,199 (4.20%). Minneapolis's median is -2.81% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Minneapolis spans $82,254,Rochester spans $65,045. 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 ($110,035 effective) pays 10.76% more than Minneapolis ($99,344 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 ($104,134/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($161,111)
- ✓Larger job market (4,450 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $110,035)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Minneapolis grew 19.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 32.8% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Minneapolis, MN
$84,630 (2019) → $101,180 (2025)
Rochester, MN
$73,100 (2019) → $97,100 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Minneapolis, MN
Rochester, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Minneapolis or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Minneapolis and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Minneapolis to Rochester as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Minneapolis vs Rochester?
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Written by Amina Patel, PE
Career Analyst
Amina has 10 years of experience in mechanical engineering. She specializes in thermal analysis and works in the automotive industry.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.92% 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 Amina Patel, PE, a licensed mechanical engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov