Explore Minnesota’s Top-Paying Careers in 2024
Looking to advance your career or make a big move? Minnesota offers some of the highest paying jobs in the Midwest right now. Whether you're an experienced professional or planning a new career path, it’s essential to know which roles offer the best salaries and job security.
This guide gives you a detailed look at the top high-paying positions across industries in Minnesota, their average salaries, and what it takes to qualify for them.
What Are the Best-Paying Jobs in Minnesota Right Now?
According to recent data from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), these roles offer the highest compensation in the state:
- Physicians and Surgeons: Average salary over $290,000 per year
- Chief Executives: Average salary above $210,000 per year
- Dentists: Average salary around $200,000 per year
- Pharmacists: Around $135,000 annually
- Software Engineers and Architects: $120,000 to $160,000 per year
- Information Systems Managers: Around $150,000 and above
- Airline Pilots and Flight Engineers: Average near $175,000 annually
- Engineering Managers: $140,000 to $160,000 yearly
Medical professionals continue to dominate the list, but roles in tech, engineering, and executive leadership are rapidly growing—and often quite lucrative.
High Paying Healthcare Jobs in Minnesota
Healthcare is one of the most rewarding and highest-compensated sectors in Minnesota. With leading hospital systems like Mayo Clinic and Allina Health operating in the state, skilled healthcare workers are in high demand.
- Physicians: Various specialties like anesthesiology, cardiology, and radiology pay well. Many earn over $300,000 yearly.
- Surgeons: Specialized surgeons — orthopedic, vascular, and neurosurgeons — frequently top salary lists.
- Pharmacists: With consistent demand, licensed pharmacists earn around $130,000 and up.
- Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs): These advanced nurses can earn $180,000 or more.
- Physician Assistants (PAs): Salaries often exceed $120,000 annually, depending on specialty.
Many healthcare careers also offer strong benefits, job security, and opportunities for continued growth. If you're ready to invest in education and licensing, the rewards can be substantial.
Top Paying Tech Jobs in Minneapolis and Greater Minnesota
Minnesota’s tech industry is expanding fast, especially in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Companies in health-tech, financial services, and retail all need skilled IT professionals.
- Software Development Managers: These roles offer leadership opportunities with salaries over $150,000.
- Solutions Architects: Professionals with cloud and enterprise system expertise earn between $130,000 to $160,000.
- Data Scientists: High in demand for analytics and AI projects. Many earn $120,000+.
- Cybersecurity Specialists: Salaries generally range from $100,000 to $140,000.
- IT Directors and CIOs: Senior roles can pay more than $160,000 in corporate settings.
Strong coding skills, cloud certifications, and data analysis expertise are especially valuable. These positions are also suited for remote and hybrid work models, giving you more flexibility.
Executive and Business Leadership Careers in Minnesota
Corporate leadership continues to rank among the top-paying roles in the state. From Fortune 500 companies in Minneapolis to growing startups, business expertise is well-rewarded.
- Chief Executive Officers (CEOs): Compensation often exceeds $200,000, with bonuses and stock options.
- Finance Directors and CFOs: High-level finance professionals earn between $150,000 to $190,000 annually.
- Marketing Executives: VPs and CMOs in tech and healthcare industries can bring in $130,000 or more.
- Operations Managers: Especially in manufacturing or logistics, roles average close to $120,000.
MBAs and years of industry experience are often required. Leadership, strategy development, and financial acumen are key to success in these roles.
Top Earning Engineering Roles in the Twin Cities and Beyond
Engineering continues to be one of Minnesota's most solid career paths. From manufacturing to technology, skilled engineers are critical to business growth.
- Engineering Managers: Oversee large teams and projects. Salaries range from $130,000 to $160,000.
- Civil Engineers: Work on infrastructure projects. Senior roles pay about $110,000 to $130,000.
- Electrical Engineers: Especially those in automation or energy may earn $100,000+ annually.
- Mechanical Engineers: With years of experience, earning potential reaches $120,000.
Most roles require a bachelor's degree and several years of field experience. Licensure (PE) enhances job prospects and salary potential.
FAQs About the Highest Paying Jobs in Minnesota
What industries pay the most in Minnesota?
The top-paying industries include healthcare, technology, finance, and engineering. Jobs in executive leadership and specialized medicine stand out as the most lucrative.
Do you need a college degree for high-paying jobs?
Most high-paying roles require a bachelor’s degree or higher. Professions like surgeons, pharmacists, and engineers also need state licensing and certifications.
Which cities offer the best-paying opportunities?
Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, and Bloomington lead in top-paying job markets. These cities also house major employers and industry hubs.
Are remote and tech jobs growing in Minnesota?
Yes. The increase in remote work has expanded tech job opportunities. Fields like cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data science are growing fast with competitive pay.
What’s the best field for career growth in Minnesota?
Healthcare and technology fields offer both high earnings and strong job growth projections through 2030. Skilled trades and advanced manufacturing are also expanding.
Your Next Step Toward a Lucrative Career in Minnesota
Whether you're switching industries or climbing the ladder, Minnesota offers pathways to high salaries and rewarding work. Start by evaluating your skills and interests. Then, choose a direction with long-term demand and compensation.
Look into educational resources, certifications, and professional networks. A smart strategy can put you on track to one of the highest paying jobs in Minnesota right now.
You don’t have to make the leap all at once. With the right mindset and information, you can plan a career path that meets your goals—both financial and personal.
