Coon Rapids vs Minneapolis: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Coon Rapids, MN and Minneapolis, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Coon Rapids, MN | Minneapolis, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $96,779 | $104,134▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $46.53 | $50.07▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,628 | $78,857▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $78,117 | $86,391▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $123,877 | $133,827▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $150,007 | $161,111▲ |
| Total Employed | 10 | 4,450▲ |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Coon Rapids.
The salary gap between Coon Rapids and Minneapolis is $7,355 (7.60%). Minneapolis's median is -2.81% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Coon Rapids spans $80,379,Minneapolis spans $82,254. Minneapolis has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced mechanical engineers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Minneapolis ($99,344 effective) pays 1.11% more than Coon Rapids ($98,253 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Coon Rapids if…
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Minneapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($104,134/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($161,111)
- ✓Larger job market (4,450 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,344)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Coon Rapids grew -3.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.6% growth in Minneapolis over the same period.
Coon Rapids, MN
$97,297 (2024) → $94,033 (2025)
Minneapolis, MN
$84,630 (2019) → $101,180 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Coon Rapids, MN
Minneapolis, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Coon Rapids or Minneapolis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Coon Rapids and Minneapolis?
Should I relocate from Coon Rapids to Minneapolis as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Coon Rapids vs Minneapolis?
Related Comparisons
Written by Amina Patel, PE
Career Analyst
Amina has 10 years of experience in mechanical engineering. She specializes in thermal analysis and works in the automotive industry.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.92% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Amina Patel, PE, a licensed mechanical engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov