Last Updated: May 2026
Minneapolis RN Salary 2026: How Much Do Nurses Make in Minneapolis, MN?
Quick Answer
Minneapolis RNs earn $85,000/year ($40.87/hr) based on the latest BLS data. Strong Minnesota Nurses Association (MNA) union contracts at Allina, M Health Fairview, and HealthPartners set competitive wage floors. Senior nurses at major systems reach $100,000–$122,000/year. Minnesota's high state income tax (up to 9.85%) is the key financial drawback.
Minneapolis is home to some of the Midwest's strongest nursing labor contracts. The Minnesota Nurses Association has negotiated above-average wages, staffing ratios, and step increases at the major Twin Cities health systems. For nurses who prioritize job stability and transparent wage progression, Minneapolis is one of the best markets in the region.
Minneapolis RN Salary by Experience Level (2026)
Minneapolis RN Salary by Years of Experience
| Experience Level | Annual Salary Range | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $67,000 – $74,000 | $32.21 – $35.58/hr |
| Mid-Career (3–7 yrs) | $82,000 – $96,000 | $39.42 – $46.15/hr |
| Senior (8+ yrs) | $96,000 – $118,000 | $46.15 – $56.73/hr |
| Top 10% earners | $122,000+ | $58.65+/hr |
Source: NurseSalaryIntel 2026 data
Minneapolis RN Salary by Hospital (2026)

MNA-represented hospitals (M Health Fairview, Allina, HealthPartners) generally pay more and offer more predictable wage progression than non-union employers. The union's 2023 strike across the Twin Cities resulted in significant wage gains that are now reflected in current contracts.
Nurse Salary by Hospital in Minneapolis, MN
| Hospital | RN Salary Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| M Health Fairview (U of MN) | $86,000 – $112,000 | MNA union; PSLF eligible |
| Allina Health (multiple sites) | $83,000 – $108,000 | MNA union contract |
| HealthPartners (Regions Hospital) | $82,000 – $106,000 | Level 1 Trauma; MNA |
| Children's Minnesota | $80,000 – $104,000 | Pediatric specialty center |
| North Memorial Health | $78,000 – $100,000 | Level 1 Trauma; non-union |
| Hennepin Healthcare | $80,000 – $102,000 | Level 1 Trauma; public system |
Source: NurseSalaryIntel 2026 hospital data
Minneapolis RN Salary by Specialty (2026)

Minneapolis RN Salary by Specialty
| Specialty | Avg Annual Salary | Premium Over Med-Surg |
|---|---|---|
| Med-Surg | $78,000 | Base |
| Telemetry | $82,000 | +$4,000 |
| L&D | $84,500 | +$6,500 |
| ER | $87,500 | +$9,500 |
| OR / Surgical | $86,000 | +$8,000 |
| ICU / Critical Care | $90,500 | +$12,500 |
| NICU | $87,000 | +$9,000 |
Source: NurseSalaryIntel 2026 data
Minnesota Income Tax: The Real Cost
Minnesota has a progressive income tax with a top rate of 9.85% — among the highest in the country. A Minneapolis RN earning $85,000/year pays approximately $5,500–$7,000 in state income tax. When comparing a Minneapolis job offer to one in a no-income-tax state (Texas, Florida, Nevada, Washington), subtract $5,000–$8,000 from the Minneapolis gross to get a realistic take-home comparison. The union contract benefits and step increases may offset this over time, but it's a key factor for nurses considering relocation.
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📊 Data Methodology
Salary figures on this page are 2026 estimates derived from the most recent available U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) data, based on the May 2024 survey and published in March 2025. Estimated ranges may also incorporate publicly available 2025 job postings, hospital pay schedules, regional market conditions, and reported compensation trends.
Official 2026 OEWS wage data has not yet been released. All salary figures on this page should be treated as informational estimates rather than official government statistics or guaranteed compensation rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How does Minnesota income tax affect nurse pay in Minneapolis?
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