What is the average salary in Brainerd, MN?
Brainerd, MN offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary in Brainerd is $67,752. This figure reflects the diverse economic landscape of the area, which includes sectors such as healthcare, education, and retail.
Salaries in Brainerd range widely, with many positions offering salaries between $28,000 and $76,455. Higher-paying jobs are available in specialized fields, with some roles reaching up to $561,000 annually. This range provides job seekers with multiple options to consider based on their skills and career goals.
What are the best paying jobs in Brainerd, MN?

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Physician
Average Salary: $516,776
Doctors in this area work in hospitals and clinics. They diagnose and treat patients. Common employers include St. Joseph's Medical Center and Essentia Health.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $85,410
RNs care for patients in hospitals and clinics. They work with doctors and other healthcare staff. They often find jobs at St. Joseph's Medical Center and Essentia Health.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $80,511
These professionals help patients recover from injuries. They work in hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Common employers include St. Joseph's Medical Center and local rehabilitation clinics.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $76,150
Drivers with a commercial license transport goods. They work for logistics companies. Many find jobs with local trucking firms and distribution centers.
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Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $70,068
These professionals operate imaging equipment. They work in hospitals and imaging centers. They often find jobs at St. Joseph's Medical Center and local imaging clinics.
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Social Worker
Average Salary: $64,296
Social workers help people with personal and social issues. They work in hospitals, schools, and community centers. They often find jobs with local government agencies and non-profits.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $58,784
LPNs provide basic patient care. They work in hospitals and clinics. They often find jobs at St. Joseph's Medical Center and local clinics.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $51,799
Technicians fix and maintain equipment. They work in various industries. They often find jobs with local businesses and manufacturing companies.
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Material Handler
Average Salary: $43,231
These workers move materials around. They work in warehouses and factories. They often find jobs with local logistics companies and manufacturing firms.
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Resident Assistant
Average Salary: $41,132
Resident assistants help manage housing facilities. They work in apartment complexes and student housing. They often find jobs with local property management companies.
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What are the best paying jobs in Brainerd, MN without a degree?

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Line Cook
Average Salary: $37,383
This role involves preparing meals in a fast-paced kitchen. It's a great job for those who enjoy cooking and working in a team. Many restaurants and cafes in the area offer this position.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $32,094
Housekeeping staff clean and maintain rooms in hotels and motels. This job requires attention to detail and a willingness to work hard. Local hotels and resorts often hire for this role.
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Barista
Average Salary: $30,701
Baristas prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. This job is ideal for those who enjoy interacting with customers. Coffee shops and cafes in the area frequently need baristas.
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Server
Average Salary: $29,535
Servers take orders and serve food and drinks to customers. This role requires good communication skills and the ability to work well under pressure. Many restaurants and dining establishments hire servers.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $29,430
Dishwasher duties include cleaning dishes and maintaining a clean kitchen. This job is perfect for those who enjoy a steady routine. Restaurants and cafes often need dishwashers to help keep operations running smoothly.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Brainerd, MN?

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Essentia Health
Average Salary: $128,500
Essentia Health is a healthcare organization that offers a range of medical services. It is known for its high-quality care and supportive work environment.
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State of Minnesota
Average Salary: $67,984
The State of Minnesota provides various public services. It offers competitive salaries and benefits to its employees.
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Crow Wing County
Average Salary: $66,050
Crow Wing County is a local government that offers jobs in different departments. It values its employees and provides a good work-life balance.
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Domino's
Average Salary: $45,570
Domino's is a popular pizza chain. It offers opportunities for growth and a friendly work environment.
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Cragun Corporation
Average Salary: $37,908
Cragun Corporation is a construction company. It provides jobs in various roles and offers a stable work environment.
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Penmac Staffing
Average Salary: $37,315
Penmac Staffing is a staffing agency. It offers temporary and permanent job placements in different industries.
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Planet Fitness
Average Salary: $30,032
Planet Fitness is a fitness center. It offers jobs in customer service and management, with a focus on a healthy work environment.
How does the cost of living in Brainerd, MN compare to the national average?

Brainerd, MN, offers a cost of living that is notably lower than the nationwide average. The housing index in Brainerd stands at 85, which is 15% below the national average of 100. This means that housing expenses in Brainerd are more affordable, making it a potentially attractive option for those looking to save on their living costs. Additionally, the cost of groceries in Brainerd is slightly below the national average, with an index of 95, representing a 5% decrease.
Utilities and transportation in Brainerd also show a favorable comparison to the national average. The utility index is 90, and the transportation index is 90, each 10% lower than the national average. This suggests that residents of Brainerd can expect to spend less on these essential services. Additionally, the miscellaneous cost index in Brainerd is 92, which is 8% below the national average. Overall, Brainerd provides a cost of living that is more economical, offering savings in multiple areas compared to the national average.