Lawyer Salary in Minnesota
The median lawyer salary in Minnesota is $131,668 per year, which is 3% below the national median of $135,740.
Lawyer Salary Overview in Minnesota (2026)
Minnesota ranks #20 out of 50 states for lawyer compensation. Minnesota falls in the middle of the pack for lawyer pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $131,668 per year, lawyers in Minnesota earn $4,072 less than the national median of $135,740.
Minnesota's cost of living is near the national average at 97%, meaning lawyer salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Minnesota is significant: lawyers at the 10th percentile earn $63,050, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $232,024 — a $168,974 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 $142,527.
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for lawyers across the country.
Lawyer Salary in Minnesota by Experience
In Minnesota, an entry-level lawyer earns around $67,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $213,400 per year. The cost of living index in Minnesota is 97% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Minnesota
| Percentile | MN Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $63,050 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,450 |
| Median (50th) | $131,668 |
| 75th Percentile | $180,420 |
| 90th Percentile | $232,024 |
Lawyer Salary by City in Minnesota
The largest employment areas for lawyers 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 Lawyer in Minnesota
Education
Most lawyer positions require a doctoral degree. Minnesota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Minnesota
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Minnesota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Lawyers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $81,732 over your career trajectory.
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