Salaries in Rochester, MN

Here’s the thing about Rochester: you can make a six-figure salary and still feel like you’re living in a place that’s practically a bargain. It’s one of the few Midwestern cities where the math genuinely works in your favor, even with a major hospital system as its economic engine.

Let’s talk purchasing power. With a cost of living index of 93.1, your dollar stretches about 7% further than the national average. That $85,240 median household income isn’t just a number—it buys you a one-bedroom apartment for $927 a month, leaving real room in your budget. The COL-adjusted average salary here hits $72,689, which feels solid when your rent isn’t devouring half your paycheck.

The economy here is Mayo Clinic, full stop. But that’s not a bad thing. It anchors a ton of high-paying jobs—you’ll see pharmacists pulling in over $133,000 and marketing managers hitting north of $154,000, both adjusted for local costs. The tech scene is quietly growing, too, with software developers earning around $124,000. Construction and project management are also solid bets, thanks to constant expansion in the city’s core.

Now, the catch: wages are good, but they’re not exploding. The 2.8% unemployment rate means employers are competing for talent, but don’t expect Silicon Valley-style salary jumps. This city works best for professionals in healthcare, tech, or management who want stability and a low housing burden. If you’re in a field that pays median wages nationally, you’ll live comfortably here—but you won’t feel rich.

The data below breaks it all down, from top-paying roles to what you can actually afford on those salaries.