Science & Research Minnesota (MN) Rank #20 of 50

Geologist Salary in Minnesota

The median geologist salary in Minnesota is $81,170 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $83,680.

Median Salary
$81,170
vs National
$-2,510
State Rank
#20 of 50
Cost of Living
97%

Geologist Salary Overview in Minnesota (2026)

Minnesota ranks #20 out of 50 states for geologist compensation. Minnesota falls in the middle of the pack for geologist pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $81,170 per year, geologists in Minnesota earn $2,510 less than the national median of $83,680.

Minnesota's cost of living is near the national average at 97%, meaning geologist salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.

The salary spread in Minnesota is significant: geologists at the 10th percentile earn $49,470, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $143,560 — a $94,090 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Minnesota for this role is Minneapolis, where the median reaches $87,864.

Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for geologists across the country.

Geologist Salary in Minnesota by Experience

In Minnesota, an entry-level geologist earns around $52,380, while experienced professionals earn up to $135,800 per year. The cost of living index in Minnesota is 97% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$52,380
$-1,620 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$82,450
$-2,550 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$135,800
$-4,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Minnesota

Percentile MN Salary
10th Percentile $49,470
25th Percentile $61,110
Median (50th) $81,170
75th Percentile $108,640
90th Percentile $143,560

Geologist Salary by City in Minnesota

The largest employment areas for geologists in Minnesota include Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Rochester, and Duluth. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Geologist in Minnesota

Education

Most geologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Minnesota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Field GeologyGISRock AnalysisStratigraphyEnvironmental AssessmentTechnical Writing

Job Outlook in Minnesota

Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Minnesota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Data shows Geologists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $54,630 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Geologist Salary in Minnesota

How much does a Geologist make in Minnesota? ▼
The median geologist salary in Minnesota is $81,170 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $83,680. Salaries range from $49,470 (10th percentile) to $143,560 (90th percentile).
How much does a Geologist make per hour in Minnesota? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $81,170, a geologist in Minnesota earns approximately $39 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Minnesota a good state for geologists? ▼
Minnesota ranks #20 out of 50 states for geologist pay. The cost of living index is 97% of the national average. Entry-level geologists earn $52,380, while senior professionals earn $135,800.
How does Minnesota compare to other states for geologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for geologists is Hawaii at $142,256. Minnesota's median of $81,170 ranks #20 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Maine ($82,006) and Arizona ($81,170).
What is the entry-level geologist salary in Minnesota? ▼
An entry-level geologist in Minnesota earns approximately $52,380 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $82,450. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $135,800.
What city in Minnesota pays geologists the most? ▼
Minneapolis is the highest paying city in Minnesota for geologists, with a median salary of $87,864. Other cities include Saint Paul and Rochester.