Fortune 500 hub (Target, Best Buy, 3M, UnitedHealth). Here's how Social Workers in Minneapolis get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Minneapolis metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $50,500 | $38,300 | $65,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $62,800 | $47,600 | $81,600 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $72,200 | $54,800 | $93,800 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $86,600 | $65,700 | $112,500 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $98,100 | $74,500 | $127,500 |
Highest-paying metros for Social Workers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Minneapolis metro economy.
The average Social Worker salary in the Minneapolis metro is $72,200 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $54,800 to $93,800 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $119,100 or more.
Yes — Minneapolis pays +3% relative to the Minnesota state median for Social Workers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Minneapolis vs. national: +11%. That puts Minneapolis among the stronger US markets for Social Workers — though cost of living in Minneapolis is also typically elevated.
In Minneapolis, the median Social Worker salary of $72,200 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Social Workers in Minneapolis start around $50,500, while seniors (10+ years) reach $86,600 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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