Minneapolis vs Rochester: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist 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 | $113,991 | $130,163▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $54.81 | $62.58▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,465 | $83,665▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $85,073 | $93,027▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $138,643 | $223,200▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $163,053 | $223,200▲ |
| Total Employed | 910▲ | 110 |
Verdict
Rochester, MN offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Minneapolis.
The salary gap between Minneapolis and Rochester is $16,172 (14.19%). Rochester's median is +23.16% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Minneapolis spans $97,588,Rochester spans $139,535. Rochester has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced clinical and counseling psychologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Rochester ($143,318 effective) pays 31.79% more than Minneapolis ($108,747 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Minneapolis if…
- ✓Larger job market (910 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($130,163/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($223,200)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $143,318)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Minneapolis grew 12.1% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 22.6% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Minneapolis, MN
$96,770 (2021) → $108,480 (2025)
Rochester, MN
$101,030 (2021) → $123,870 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Minneapolis, MN
Rochester, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Minneapolis or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Minneapolis and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Minneapolis to Rochester as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Minneapolis vs Rochester?
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Written by Maria Gonzalez, PhD, LPC
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in clinical psychology. She specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy. Maria works at a mental health clinic in Chicago.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.08% 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 Maria Gonzalez, PhD, LPC, a licensed clinical and counseling psychologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov