Duluth vs Elk River: Insurance Agent Salary (2026)
Compare insurance agent 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 | $61,010 | $66,179▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $29.33 | $31.82▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $51,313▲ | $42,976 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,028▲ | $51,603 |
| 75th Percentile | $80,839 | $84,709▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $125,076▲ | $102,576 |
| Total Employed | 340▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Duluth and Elk River are closely matched on overall insurance agent compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Duluth and Elk River is $5,169 (8.47%). Elk River's median is +2.57% compared to the US national median of $64,522.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Duluth spans $73,763,Elk River spans $59,600. 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 ($68,730 effective) pays 2.30% more than Elk River ($67,187 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Duluth if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($125,076)
- ✓Larger job market (340 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,730)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Elk River if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($66,179/year)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, insurance agent salaries in Duluth grew 13.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -2.7% growth in Elk River over the same period.
Duluth, MN
$51,860 (2019) → $58,890 (2025)
Elk River, MN
$65,623 (2024) → $63,879 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Duluth, MN
Elk River, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays insurance agents 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 insurance agent?
What do entry-level insurance agents earn in Duluth vs Elk River?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jordan Lee, MBA
Career Analyst
Jordan has over 10 years of experience in the insurance industry. He specializes in property and casualty insurance. He has worked in both agency and corporate settings.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.60% 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, MBA, a licensed insurance agent with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov