What is the average salary in Brainerd, MN?
The job market in Brainerd, MN, offers a range of salary opportunities for professionals. The average yearly salary stands at $67,163. This figure reflects the income potential available to those who seek employment in the area. Whether you're looking for an entry-level position or a senior role, the market has something to offer.
Different industries contribute to the salary landscape. A breakdown of salary distributions shows that most employees earn between $28,000 and $113,818 annually. These figures indicate a healthy spread of income levels, supporting a variety of living standards. For those in the highest income brackets, salaries reach up to $500,000. This range highlights the potential for significant earnings in specialized or higher-level positions.
What are the best paying jobs in Brainerd, MN?

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Physician
Average Salary: $544,301
In Brainerd, medical professionals are in demand. Physicians work in clinics and hospitals, treating patients. They collaborate with other healthcare staff to provide top care.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $134,050
These professionals work in clinics and hospitals, offering primary and specialty care. They assess patients, diagnose conditions, and prescribe treatments. Companies like Essentia Health and St. Joseph's Medical Center hire them.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $127,263
Pharmacists help patients manage their medications. They work in local pharmacies, ensuring that prescriptions are safe and effective. Companies like CVS and Walgreens need their expertise.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $90,882
RNs care for patients and assist doctors. They work in hospitals and clinics, providing essential medical services. Employers include St. Joseph's Medical Center and other healthcare facilities.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $85,857
These professionals help patients with communication and swallowing disorders. They work in schools, clinics, and rehabilitation centers. Companies such as Mayo Clinic and local schools offer positions.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $84,838
Occupational therapists help people recover from injuries. They work in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers. Employers include St. Luke's Hospital and local care facilities.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $83,540
These drivers transport goods and materials. They work for logistics companies, ensuring timely deliveries. Employers include regional trucking firms and local businesses.
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Case Manager
Average Salary: $78,603
Case managers coordinate care for patients. They work in hospitals and social service agencies, helping patients navigate their treatment plans. Employers include healthcare facilities and social service organizations.
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Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $76,294
These professionals use imaging equipment to diagnose conditions. They work in hospitals and clinics, taking X-rays and scans. Employers include St. Joseph's Medical Center and other healthcare providers.
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Laboratory Technician
Average Salary: $60,882
Lab technicians conduct tests on samples. They work in hospitals, clinics, and research labs. Employers include medical labs and academic institutions.
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What are the best paying jobs in Brainerd, MN without a degree?

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Line Cook
Average Salary: $36,939
Prepare and cook food in a restaurant setting. Work in fast-paced environments like local cafes and family restaurants. No formal culinary training needed.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $35,896
Maintain lawns and outdoor spaces. Ensure parks and private properties look well-kept. Skills can include landscaping and grounds maintenance.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $32,298
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels, motels, and private residences. Focus on making spaces tidy and comfortable. Local hospitality places offer many opportunities.
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Barista
Average Salary: $31,419
Prepare and serve coffee and beverages. Work in coffee shops and cafes. Develop skills in coffee preparation and customer service.
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Server
Average Salary: $28,685
Serve food and drinks to customers in restaurants. Manage tables and ensure a good dining experience. Friendly and efficient service is key.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Brainerd, MN?

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Essentia Health
Average Salary: $148,557
Essentia Health provides excellent healthcare services. They are a top employer in Brainerd, offering competitive salaries and benefits.
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Moments Hospice
Average Salary: $68,037
Moments Hospice provides compassionate care for end-of-life patients. They offer a supportive work environment and fair compensation.
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Crow Wing County
Average Salary: $64,242
Crow Wing County offers jobs in various sectors, including public service and administration. They aim to provide a stable job with good pay.
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Good Samaritan
Average Salary: $58,135
Good Samaritan provides essential community services. They offer rewarding jobs with a focus on employee well-being.
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Barrett Petfood
Average Salary: $47,450
Barrett Petfood manufactures pet food products. They offer competitive salaries and a family-oriented work culture.
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Sheridan
Average Salary: $43,965
Sheridan offers retail services and retail jobs. They provide a good working environment with fair compensation.
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EON, Inc.
Average Salary: $42,915
EON, Inc. specializes in telecommunications. They offer stable jobs with good salaries and benefits.
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Comfort Keepers
Average Salary: $42,443
Comfort Keepers provides in-home care services. They offer rewarding jobs with a focus on employee satisfaction.
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MADDEN BROTHERS, INC
Average Salary: $40,100
MADDEN BROTHERS, INC. provides transportation services. They offer stable jobs with competitive pay and benefits.
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Penmac Staffing Services, Inc.
Average Salary: $39,028
Penmac Staffing Services, Inc. provides staffing solutions. They offer fair compensation and opportunities for career growth.
How does the cost of living in Brainerd, MN compare to the national average?

Brainerd, MN, stands out with a cost of living index that offers favorable conditions for many individuals. This city’s cost of living index sits at 90, which is slightly lower than the nationwide average of 100. This small difference suggests that residents in Brainerd may find their expenses to be more manageable compared to those in other areas across the country.
Breaking down the categories, Brainerd presents some attractive options for job seekers. Housing, for instance, shows an index of 85, meaning it is 15% cheaper than the national average. This can be a significant saving for those looking to settle down. Groceries, another important aspect, have an index of 95, indicating they are only 5% more expensive. Utilities cost 10% less, coming in at 90. Transportation and healthcare costs are also near the national average, with indexes of 88 and 92, respectively. These figures suggest that, overall, Brainerd provides a more affordable lifestyle without compromising on quality.



