Duluth vs Elk River: Mechanical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare mechanical engineer salaries between Duluth, MN and Elk River, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Duluth, MN | Elk River, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $93,132 | $97,911▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $44.78 | $47.08▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,788 | $74,818▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $79,001 | $81,867▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $103,270 | $120,158▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $133,806 | $151,762▲ |
| Total Employed | 230▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Elk River, MN offers better overall compensation for mechanical engineers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Duluth.
The salary gap between Duluth and Elk River is $4,779 (5.13%). Elk River's median is -8.62% compared to the US national median of $107,150.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Duluth spans $63,018,Elk River spans $76,944. Elk River 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, Duluth ($104,916 effective) pays 5.55% more than Elk River ($99,402 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Duluth if…
- ✓Larger job market (230 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,916)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Elk River if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($97,911/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($151,762)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, mechanical engineer salaries in Duluth grew 22.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -3.4% growth in Elk River over the same period.
Duluth, MN
$73,990 (2019) → $90,490 (2025)
Elk River, MN
$98,434 (2024) → $95,133 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Duluth, MN
Elk River, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays mechanical engineers more: Duluth or Elk River?
What is the hourly rate difference between Duluth and Elk River?
Should I relocate from Duluth to Elk River as a mechanical engineer?
What do entry-level mechanical engineers earn in Duluth vs Elk River?
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