Duluth vs Elk River: Veterinary Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare veterinary technologist and 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 | $50,925▲ | $50,100 |
| Hourly Rate | $24.49▲ | $24.09 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $39,499 | $40,505▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $45,871▲ | $42,559 |
| 75th Percentile | $58,869▲ | $58,681 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $61,011 | $67,077▲ |
| Total Employed | 140▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Duluth, MN offers better overall compensation for veterinary technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Elk River.
The salary gap between Duluth and Elk River is $825 (1.65%). Duluth's median is +1.88% compared to the US national median of $49,986.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Duluth spans $21,512,Elk River spans $26,572. Elk River has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced veterinary technologist and technicians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Duluth ($57,369 effective) pays 12.79% more than Elk River ($50,863 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 ($50,925/year)
- ✓Larger job market (140 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $57,369)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Elk River if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($67,077)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinary technologist and technician salaries in Duluth grew 34.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 17.2% growth in Elk River over the same period.
Duluth, MN
$35,770 (2019) → $48,270 (2025)
Elk River, MN
$40,532 (2024) → $47,488 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Duluth, MN
Elk River, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinary technologist and 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 veterinary technologist and technician?
What do entry-level veterinary technologist and technicians earn in Duluth vs Elk River?
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Written by Jordan Lee, CVT
Career Analyst
Jordan has 10 years of experience in veterinary technology. They specialize in emergency care. Jordan has worked in both clinic and hospital settings.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.50% 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 Jordan Lee, CVT, a licensed veterinary technologist and technician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov