How Elementary Teachers in Minnesota get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Minnesota compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $53,900 | $41,000 | $70,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $67,000 | $50,900 | $87,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $77,100 | $58,600 | $100,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $92,500 | $70,300 | $120,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $104,800 | $79,600 | $136,200 |
Pay varies sharply within Minnesota. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Minnesota |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis | $79,400 | $60,300 | $103,200 | +3% |
Top occupations by median pay in Minnesota — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in Minnesota
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Elementary Teacher salary in Minnesota is $77,100 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $58,600 and the 75th at $100,200.
Pay-wise, Minnesota sits +8% above the national Elementary Teacher median ($71,400). That makes it one of the stronger markets — though cost of living should always be factored in alongside raw salary.
Senior Elementary Teachers (10–14 years of experience) in Minnesota earn around $92,500 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $104,800 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Minnesota ranks 15th for Elementary Teacher pay. The highest-paying state pays around $105,700 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
Get my personal salary report →