Duluth vs Elk River: Electrician Salary (2026)
Compare electrician 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 | $84,453▲ | $81,932 |
| Hourly Rate | $40.60▲ | $39.39 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $48,058 | $59,576▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $61,660 | $66,357▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $98,832 | $104,873▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $112,342 | $126,994▲ |
| Total Employed | 680▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Duluth, MN offers better overall compensation for electricians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Elk River.
The salary gap between Duluth and Elk River is $2,521 (3.08%). Duluth's median is +30.87% compared to the US national median of $64,530.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Duluth spans $64,284,Elk River spans $67,418. Elk River has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced electricians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Duluth ($95,139 effective) pays 14.38% more than Elk River ($83,180 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Duluth if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($84,453/year)
- ✓Larger job market (680 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $95,139)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Elk River if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($126,994)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, electrician salaries in Duluth grew 18.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 6.6% growth in Elk River over the same period.
Duluth, MN
$69,670 (2019) → $82,700 (2025)
Elk River, MN
$75,273 (2024) → $80,231 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Duluth, MN
Elk River, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays electricians 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 electrician?
What do entry-level electricians earn in Duluth vs Elk River?
Related Comparisons
Written by Samuel Carter, Career Analyst
Career Analyst
Samuel Carter has over 10 years of experience as an electrician. His focus includes residential wiring and safety standards. He has worked in various construction firms.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.12% 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 Samuel Carter, Career Analyst, a licensed electrician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov