What is the average salary in Brainerd, MN?
Job seekers looking at salaries in Brainerd, MN, will find a range of earning potentials. The average yearly salary in Brainerd is $77,928. This average takes into account a mix of different occupations and industries present in the area. With a variety of positions available, workers can explore opportunities that match their skills and career goals.
The salary distribution in Brainerd showcases a spread of income levels. The majority of jobs pay between $28,000 and $78,795 annually. Higher-paying jobs in the area include roles that require specialized skills or higher education, offering salaries up to $586,744 per year. Brainerd provides a diverse employment landscape with competitive wages across different sectors.
What are the best paying jobs in Brainerd, MN?

-
Physician
Average Salary: $534,497
This role involves diagnosing and treating health conditions. Many local clinics and hospitals need qualified doctors. Working here means you can serve a growing community. Positions are available at St. Joseph’s Medical Center.
Find Physician jobs in Brainerd, MN
-
Pharmacist
Average Salary: $135,765
Pharmacists fill prescriptions and advise patients on medications. They play a key role in healthcare. This job is important in the local pharmacies. CVS Health and Walgreens are looking for pharmacists.
Find Pharmacist jobs in Brainerd, MN
-
Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $87,348
Registered Nurses provide care to patients. They work in various healthcare settings. In Brainerd, this job ensures quality care. St. Joseph’s Medical Center and local clinics need RNs.
Find Registered Nurse jobs in Brainerd, MN
-
Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $83,914
This role helps people with speech and language issues. Therapists work with patients to improve communication. This job is vital for local healthcare. St. Joseph’s Medical Center often hires for this role.
Find Speech Language Pathologist jobs in Brainerd, MN
-
Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $81,748
Occupational Therapists help patients regain skills. They work with people who need to improve daily activities. This role is important for community health. Local hospitals and clinics seek occupational therapists.
Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Brainerd, MN
-
CDL Driver
Average Salary: $75,558
Driving a commercial vehicle requires a CDL. Drivers transport goods and materials. This job is key for local businesses. Companies like UPS and local freight services hire CDL drivers.
Find CDL Driver jobs in Brainerd, MN
-
Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $70,859
Radiologic Technologists operate imaging equipment. They help diagnose medical conditions. This job is important for healthcare facilities. St. Joseph’s Medical Center and local clinics need radiologic technologists.
Find Radiologic Technologist jobs in Brainerd, MN
-
Laboratory Technician
Average Salary: $60,574
Laboratory Technicians perform tests on samples. They support doctors in diagnosing health issues. This job is vital for medical labs. Local hospitals and clinics need skilled technicians.
Find Laboratory Technician jobs in Brainerd, MN
-
Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $59,480
LPNs provide basic patient care. They work under the supervision of RNs and doctors. This role is important for local healthcare. St. Joseph’s Medical Center and clinics need LPNs.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Brainerd, MN
-
Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $52,892
Maintenance Technicians keep facilities running smoothly. They handle repairs and maintenance tasks. This job is crucial for local businesses. Many companies in Brainerd need skilled technicians.
Find Maintenance Technician jobs in Brainerd, MN
What are the best paying jobs in Brainerd, MN without a degree?

-
Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $37,905
Maintains parks, gardens, and properties. Works for city parks or private companies. Ensures outdoor spaces are clean and well-kept. Uses tools to trim plants and mow lawns.
Find Groundskeeper jobs in Brainerd, MN
-
Line Cook
Average Salary: $37,711
Prepares food quickly in restaurants. Works in fast-paced kitchens. Follows recipes and cooking instructions. Often works as part of a team to ensure timely service. Local eateries and hotels offer these roles.
Find Line Cook jobs in Brainerd, MN
-
Housekeeping
Average Salary: $31,477
Cleans hotel rooms and public areas. Ensures a tidy and welcoming environment. Works for local hotels and resorts. Uses cleaning supplies and equipment to maintain cleanliness.
Find Housekeeping jobs in Brainerd, MN
-
Server
Average Salary: $31,181
Takes orders and serves food and drinks. Works in restaurants and cafes. Interacts with customers to ensure a pleasant dining experience. Must be friendly and knowledgeable about the menu.
Find Server jobs in Brainerd, MN
-
Barista
Average Salary: $31,015
Prepares coffee and other beverages. Works in cafes and coffee shops. Interacts with customers to take orders. Requires attention to detail and a passion for coffee.
Find Barista jobs in Brainerd, MN
-
Dishwasher
Average Salary: $29,981
Cleans dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Works in restaurants and cafes. Ensures a clean workspace. Requires hard work and attention to detail.
Find Dishwasher jobs in Brainerd, MN
Which companies offer the top salaries in Brainerd, MN?

-
Essentia Health
Average Salary: $141,235
Essentia Health is a leading healthcare provider in Brainerd. They offer a range of medical services and prioritize employee health and well-being. This commitment helps ensure staff receive competitive salaries and benefits.
-
State of Minnesota
Average Salary: $67,123
Working for the State of Minnesota in Brainerd means being part of a stable and respected organization. The state offers a variety of roles in administration, education, and public safety, with salaries reflecting this range of services.
-
Crow Wing County
Average Salary: $65,270
Crow Wing County provides diverse job opportunities in government and public services. Employees benefit from a strong community focus and steady employment, with salaries that are supportive of local living standards.
-
Cragun Corporation
Average Salary: $38,292
Cragun Corporation, a significant employer in Brainerd, focuses on manufacturing and retail. While their salaries may start lower, there are opportunities for growth and advancement within the company.
How does the cost of living in Brainerd, MN compare to the national average?

Brainerd, Minnesota, offers a cost of living that is notably lower than the nationwide average. The cost of living index in Brainerd is 91.5, which means that living expenses in this area are about 8.5% lower than the average across the country. This reduction is particularly evident in housing, where the index stands at 90, indicating that residents can find affordable homes. Additionally, utilities, at an index of 85, contribute significantly to the lower overall cost.
In other areas, Brainerd also provides some savings while maintaining similar costs to the national average. Groceries and transportation both have an index of 95, slightly below the average but not by much. Healthcare costs in Brainerd match the national index at 100, showing no change in cost. Miscellaneous expenses, with an index of 92, are also slightly lower than the national average. This combination of costs makes Brainerd an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle without sacrificing too much in terms of convenience or quality.



