Mental Health Counselor Salary in Minnesota
Based on 7K+ workers in Minnesota
Median Annual Salary (MN)
$58,780
$28.26/hr
vs National Average
$59,385
-1.0% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$45K – $77K
7K employed in Minnesota
The median salary for a Mental Health Counselor in Minnesota is $58,780 per year, or $28 per hour. This figure is slightly lower than the national average, with Minnesota counselors earning approximately 1.0% less. There are currently 7,110 Mental Health Counselors employed in the state.
Several factors can influence a Mental Health Counselor salary in Minnesota. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned professionals typically earning higher wages. The specific setting of employment, such as private practice versus a hospital, and the geographic location within Minnesota can also impact compensation. Further education and specialized certifications may also lead to increased earning potential.
Salary Distribution — Mental Health Counselor in Minnesota
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $45,250 |
| 25th percentile | $48,910 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $58,780 |
| 75th percentile | $65,430 |
| 90th percentile | $77,320 |
Top-Paying Industries for Mental Health Counselor (U.S.)
Which industries pay Mental Health Counselors the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Mental Health Counselors in Minnesota tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Finance and Insurance | $80,880 | 1K |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $66,530 | 35K |
| Educational Services | $62,070 | 35K |
| Administrative and Support Services | $60,480 | 5K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $60,460 | 3K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Mental Health Counselor in Minnesota vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Minnesota) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $58,780 |
| 2026 (projected) | $60,543 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Minnesota Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $58,780 | $59,385 |
| 2026 (projected) | $60,543 | $61,167 |
Mental Health Counselor Salary by Experience Level in Minnesota
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $48,910 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $58,780 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $65,430 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $77,320 |
Mental Health Counselor Salary in Other States
Related Mental Health Counselor Salaries in Minnesota
How other high-demand occupations in Minnesota compare to Mental Health Counselor ($58,780 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Mental Health Counselor | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiologist in MN | $708,340 | +1105.1% | $340.55/hr |
| Surgeon in MN | $568,150 | +866.6% | $273.15/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in MN | $496,510 | +744.7% | $238.71/hr |
| Emergency Medicine Physician in MN | $390,940 | +565.1% | $187.95/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in MN | $373,700 | +535.8% | $179.66/hr |
| Psychiatrist in MN | $336,410 | +472.3% | $161.74/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in MN | $321,910 | +447.7% | $154.76/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in MN | $280,030 | +376.4% | $134.63/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in MN | $266,190 | +352.9% | $127.98/hr |
| Podiatrist in MN | $261,180 | +344.3% | $125.57/hr |
| Pediatrician in MN | $226,660 | +285.6% | $108.97/hr |
| Dentist in MN | $219,200 | +272.9% | $105.38/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average annual salary for a Mental Health Counselor in Minnesota?
- The median annual salary for a Mental Health Counselor in Minnesota is $58,780. This equates to an hourly wage of $28. This median figure falls just below the national average for the profession.
What is the salary range for Mental Health Counselors in Minnesota?
- In Minnesota, the salary range for Mental Health Counselors typically falls between $45,250 on the lower end and $77,320 on the higher end. This wide range reflects various factors influencing pay.
How does the Mental Health Counselor salary in Minnesota compare to the national average?
- The Mental Health Counselor salary in Minnesota is slightly lower than the national average, by approximately 1.0%. While the median in Minnesota is $58,780 annually, the national median may be higher.
How many Mental Health Counselors are employed in Minnesota?
- There are a total of 7,110 Mental Health Counselors employed in Minnesota. This indicates a significant number of professionals contributing to mental healthcare services within the state.