Elk River vs Minneapolis: Physical Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare physical therapist salaries between Elk River, MN and Minneapolis, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Elk River, MN | Minneapolis, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,525 | $104,970▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.33 | $50.47▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,960 | $88,720▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $87,151 | $99,806▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $114,010▲ | $110,360 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $132,797▲ | $124,325 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 3,360▲ |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for physical therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Elk River.
The salary gap between Elk River and Minneapolis is $4,445 (4.42%). Minneapolis's median is -0.30% compared to the US national median of $105,288.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Elk River spans $51,837,Minneapolis spans $35,605. Elk River 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, Elk River ($102,056 effective) pays 1.91% more than Minneapolis ($100,141 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Elk River if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($132,797)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,056)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Minneapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($104,970/year)
- ✓Larger job market (3,360 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, physical therapist salaries in Elk River grew 10.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 22.1% growth in Minneapolis over the same period.
Elk River, MN
$88,784 (2024) → $98,111 (2025)
Minneapolis, MN
$83,940 (2019) → $102,450 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Elk River, MN
Minneapolis, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays physical therapists more: Elk River or Minneapolis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Elk River and Minneapolis?
Should I relocate from Elk River to Minneapolis as a physical therapist?
What do entry-level physical therapists earn in Elk River vs Minneapolis?
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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