Minneapolis vs Mankato: Nurse Practitioner Salary (2026)
Compare nurse practitioner salaries between Minneapolis, MN and Mankato, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Minneapolis, MN | Mankato, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,971 | $143,361▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $66.33 | $68.92▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $105,716 | $129,737▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $132,385 | $138,292▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $164,413 | $174,872▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $176,010▲ | $174,872 |
| Total Employed | 4,900▲ | 150 |
Verdict
Minneapolis and Mankato are closely matched on overall nurse practitioner compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Minneapolis and Mankato is $5,390 (3.91%). Mankato's median is +4.75% compared to the US national median of $136,864.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Minneapolis spans $70,294,Mankato spans $45,135. 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, Mankato ($157,618 effective) pays 19.75% more than Minneapolis ($131,624 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Minneapolis if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($176,010)
- ✓Larger job market (4,900 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Mankato if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($143,361/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $157,618)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, nurse practitioner salaries in Minneapolis grew 12.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 19.8% growth in Mankato over the same period.
Minneapolis, MN
$118,570 (2019) → $133,370 (2025)
Mankato, MN
$115,720 (2019) → $138,580 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Minneapolis, MN
Mankato, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays nurse practitioners more: Minneapolis or Mankato?
What is the hourly rate difference between Minneapolis and Mankato?
Should I relocate from Minneapolis to Mankato as a nurse practitioner?
What do entry-level nurse practitioners earn in Minneapolis vs Mankato?
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Written by Maria Gonzalez, MSN, NP-C
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in adult healthcare. She works in a community health clinic. Her specialty is chronic disease management.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.45% 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, MSN, NP-C, a licensed nurse practitioner with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov