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Michigan vs Minnesota: Healthcare Job Market Comparison

Upper Midwest healthcare. Michigan Medicine vs. Mayo Clinic. Different academic anchors, similar markets.

Michigan

$84,390

avg RN salary

Cost of living
90.6
Top state income tax
4.25%
Ava staffing in Florida →

Minnesota

$89,360

avg RN salary

Cost of living
97.1
Top state income tax
9.85%
Ava staffing in Florida →

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricMichiganMinnesota
Avg RN salary (BLS May 2024)$84,390$89,360
Cost of living (100 = US avg)90.697.1
State income tax (top rate)4.25%9.85%

Salary figures are approximate, drawn from public sources including BLS.

Notable Health Systems

Michigan

  • University of Michigan Health
  • Corewell Health
  • Henry Ford Health

Minnesota

  • Mayo Clinic
  • Allina Health
  • Fairview Health
  • HealthPartners

Frequently Asked Questions

Which state pays nurses more, Michigan or Minnesota?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), registered nurses in Minnesota earn an average of $89,360, compared to $84,390 in Michigan. The gap is roughly $4,970 per year before adjusting for cost of living.

How does the cost of living compare between Michigan and Minnesota?

Using the MERIC Q4 2024 cost-of-living index (100 = national average), Michigan is 90.6 and Minnesota is 97.1. Michigan (90.6) is the more affordable of the two, while Minnesota (97.1) is more expensive. Housing is typically the largest driver of these differences.

Which state has a more favorable tax environment for healthcare providers?

Michigan has a top state income tax rate of 4.25%, while Minnesota's top rate is 9.85%. Always factor in property tax, sales tax, and local taxes before making a relocation decision. States with no income tax often offset through higher sales or property taxes.

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