Duluth vs Elk River: Dialysis Technician Salary (2026)
Compare dialysis technician 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 | $47,467▲ | $38,489 |
| Hourly Rate | $22.82▲ | $18.51 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,986▲ | $31,335 |
| 25th Percentile | $41,662▲ | $34,926 |
| 75th Percentile | $59,940▲ | $47,455 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $85,705▲ | $59,658 |
| Total Employed | 120▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Duluth, MN offers better overall compensation for dialysis technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Elk River.
The salary gap between Duluth and Elk River is $8,978 (23.33%). Duluth's median is +4.73% compared to the US national median of $45,322.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Duluth spans $47,719,Elk River spans $28,323. Duluth has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Duluth ($53,473 effective) pays 36.85% more than Elk River ($39,075 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 ($47,467/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($85,705)
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $53,473)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Elk River if…
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dialysis technician salaries in Duluth grew -0.2% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -18.9% growth in Elk River over the same period.
Duluth, MN
$46,420 (2021) → $46,350 (2025)
Elk River, MN
$46,322 (2024) → $37,583 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Duluth, MN
Elk River, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dialysis technicians 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 dialysis technician?
What do entry-level dialysis technicians earn in Duluth vs Elk River?
Written by Jessica Tran, CCRN
Career Analyst
Jessica has over 10 years as a dialysis technician. She specializes in chronic kidney disease management. She works at a community hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.41% 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 Jessica Tran, CCRN, a licensed dialysis technician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov