Minneapolis vs Owatonna: Pharmacist Salary (2026)
Compare pharmacist salaries between Minneapolis, MN and Owatonna, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Minneapolis, MN | Owatonna, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $163,936▲ | $158,716 |
| Hourly Rate | $78.82▲ | $76.30 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,507 | $110,698▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $139,375 | $143,363▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $172,938 | $177,983▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $175,830 | $185,889▲ |
| Total Employed | 4,160▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for pharmacists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Owatonna.
The salary gap between Minneapolis and Owatonna is $5,220 (3.29%). Minneapolis's median is +14.25% compared to the US national median of $143,489.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Minneapolis spans $95,323,Owatonna spans $75,191. 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, Owatonna ($161,133 effective) pays 3.03% more than Minneapolis ($156,395 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 ($163,936/year)
- ✓Larger job market (4,160 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Owatonna if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($185,889)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $161,133)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, pharmacist salaries in Minneapolis grew 17.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 15.5% growth in Owatonna over the same period.
Minneapolis, MN
$136,930 (2019) → $160,990 (2025)
Owatonna, MN
$134,937 (2024) → $155,864 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Minneapolis, MN
Owatonna, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays pharmacists more: Minneapolis or Owatonna?
What is the hourly rate difference between Minneapolis and Owatonna?
Should I relocate from Minneapolis to Owatonna as a pharmacist?
What do entry-level pharmacists earn in Minneapolis vs Owatonna?
Related Comparisons
Written by Sofia Chen, PharmD
Career Analyst
Sofia Chen has 10 years of experience in community pharmacy. She specializes in medication therapy management.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 1.83% 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 Sofia Chen, PharmD, a licensed pharmacist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov