Minneapolis vs Rochester: Athletic Trainer Salary (2026)
Compare athletic trainer 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 | $68,878▲ | $64,861 |
| Hourly Rate | $33.12▲ | $31.18 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,760▲ | $51,442 |
| 25th Percentile | $66,566▲ | $57,996 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,274 | $79,274▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $83,516 | $95,254▲ |
| Total Employed | 490▲ | 29 |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for athletic trainers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Minneapolis and Rochester is $4,017 (6.19%). Minneapolis's median is +5.29% compared to the US national median of $65,415.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Minneapolis spans $17,756,Rochester spans $43,812. Rochester has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced athletic trainers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Rochester ($65,849 effective) pays 0.21% more than Minneapolis ($65,709 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 ($68,878/year)
- ✓Larger job market (490 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($95,254)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,849)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, athletic trainer salaries in Minneapolis grew 25.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 24.8% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Minneapolis, MN
$52,380 (2019) → $65,830 (2025)
Rochester, MN
$49,660 (2022) → $61,991 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Minneapolis, MN
Rochester, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays athletic trainers more: Minneapolis or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Minneapolis and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Minneapolis to Rochester as a athletic trainer?
What do entry-level athletic trainers earn in Minneapolis vs Rochester?
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Written by Jordan Lee, MS, ATC
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in athletic training. She specializes in injury prevention and rehabilitation. She has worked at several high schools and collegiate athletic programs.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.63% 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 Jordan Lee, MS, ATC, a licensed athletic trainer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov