What is the average salary in Brainerd, MN?
Exploring job opportunities in Brainerd, MN can offer a variety of salary options across different industries. The average yearly salary in Brainerd stands at $71,901. This figure varies depending on the type of job and the industry.
The salary distribution in Brainerd shows a broad range of earnings. The largest percentage of jobs, 68.21%, fall within the lower salary brackets, earning about $28,000 to $77,273 annually. A smaller yet significant portion, 19.01%, earn between $77,273 and $126,545. Fewer jobs, around 4.45%, offer salaries from $126,545 to $175,818. Very few positions reach the higher end of the spectrum, with salaries above $422,182 making up a tiny 0.02%. Job seekers in Brainerd can find competitive salaries, particularly in higher-paying industries.
What are the best paying jobs in Brainerd, MN?

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Physician
Average Salary: $534,074
Doctors diagnose and treat illnesses. They work in private practices, clinics, and hospitals. Many offer emergency and primary care.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $136,299
Pharmacists prepare medications and advise patients on their use. They work in community and hospital pharmacies. Knowledge of medication interactions is key.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $88,649
RNs provide patient care and support doctors. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Patient advocacy and care coordination are vital.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $84,531
SLPs treat communication and swallowing disorders. They work with patients in schools, hospitals, and clinics. Collaboration with families and educators is important.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $82,967
OTs help patients regain skills for daily living. They work with people of all ages in various settings. Tailoring therapy plans to individual needs is crucial.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $76,643
Drivers transport goods using large vehicles. They work for trucking companies, logistics firms, and construction companies. Safe and timely delivery is key.
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Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $71,458
Technologists perform imaging exams. They work in hospitals, clinics, and imaging centers. Knowledge of radiation safety is essential.
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Laboratory Technician
Average Salary: $62,623
Technicians conduct tests on samples. They work in research labs, hospitals, and clinics. Accuracy and attention to detail are important.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $58,133
LPNs provide basic patient care. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Communication and teamwork are vital.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $52,706
Technicians repair and maintain equipment. They work in various industries. Problem-solving and attention to detail are key skills.
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What are the best paying jobs in Brainerd, MN without a degree?

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Line Cook
Average Salary: $37,672
This role involves preparing ingredients and cooking food in a restaurant. Cooks work quickly to make sure orders are ready on time. It can be a fast-paced environment, ideal for those who enjoy working in teams.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $37,005
Maintaining the grounds of buildings or properties is a key task. This includes lawn care, planting, and taking care of trees. It’s great for those who enjoy outdoor work and physical activity.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $34,097
In this job, dishwashers clean dishes and utensils in a restaurant or hotel. They ensure everything is spotless for the next use. It’s a steady job that involves repetitive tasks, perfect for those who like routine.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $31,758
Cleaning rooms and common areas is an essential task. Housekeepers ensure a clean and welcoming environment. This job can be in hotels or large residential properties. It’s ideal for those who take pride in their work.
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Barista
Average Salary: $31,607
Baristas make coffee drinks in cafes. They often interact with customers, taking orders and providing excellent service. It’s a role that combines customer service with a love for coffee. It's perfect for those who enjoy social interaction.
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Server
Average Salary: $29,876
Serving food and drinks to customers is the main task. Servers ensure customers have a pleasant dining experience. This job is fast-paced and requires good communication skills. It’s ideal for those who enjoy being around people.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Brainerd, MN?

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Essentia Health
Average Salary: $144,905
Essentia Health offers high-quality healthcare services. They provide a wide range of job opportunities, from nursing to administrative roles. Their competitive salaries reflect the high level of care they give to patients.
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Crow Wing County
Average Salary: $63,744
Crow Wing County provides essential services to the community. They offer jobs in law enforcement, education, and public administration. Their salaries are attractive for those who want to serve the public sector.
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Comfort Keepers
Average Salary: $46,934
Comfort Keepers helps seniors stay in their homes longer. They offer home care positions that involve personal care and companionship. The average salary is decent for those interested in healthcare support.
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Sheridan
Average Salary: $44,664
Sheridan provides financial services and products. They have positions in banking, insurance, and investment. Their salaries are competitive for those in the finance industry.
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EON, Inc.
Average Salary: $42,061
EON, Inc. focuses on outdoor recreation services. They offer jobs in retail and outdoor equipment sales. Their salaries are good for those who love the outdoors and working in a dynamic environment.
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Penmac Staffing
Average Salary: $39,273
Penmac Staffing specializes in temporary staffing solutions. They provide job opportunities in various industries, from healthcare to office work. The average salary reflects the diverse range of positions available.
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Cragun Corporation
Average Salary: $38,686
Cragun Corporation is involved in construction and engineering services. They offer jobs in construction management and engineering. The average salary is competitive for those in these fields.
How does the cost of living in Brainerd, MN compare to the national average?

Brainerd, MN, showcases a cost of living that is generally lower than the nationwide average, providing potential savings for residents. For instance, the housing index in Brainerd stands at 89, meaning it costs about 11% less than the average city in the U.S. This difference can help residents allocate more of their budget to other needs or savings. Additionally, groceries in Brainerd come at 92, only 8% below the national average, ensuring affordable food options.
Other living expenses also favor Brainerd. Utilities are priced at 95, which is just 5% below the average, making it relatively easy to manage day-to-day expenses. Transportation costs are at 88, translating to a 12% reduction from the national average, offering more budget flexibility. Healthcare costs are slightly higher, at 98, which is just 2% above average, but still generally affordable. Miscellaneous expenses, which cover a range of smaller costs, sit at 90, showing an overall savings of 10% compared to the nationwide average. These numbers highlight the affordability and appeal of Brainerd for those looking to reduce their living costs while maintaining a good quality of life.



