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These figures are estimated from the national median for this role using a verified geographic cost-of-living multiplier for this metro area. Direct survey data is used where available.
Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington MN-WI Market Report
Fall 2026 UpdateUpdated October 3, 2026

Research Scientist Salary in Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington MN-WI (Fall 2026)

R&D for generative AI foundational models. In Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington MN-WI, the median annual base compensation is $158,838, representing a -2% adjustment compared to the national average.

Median Base
$158,838
Market Range (P10–P90)
$127K – $312K
3-Year Trajectory
+10%

Research Scientist Salary Distribution in Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington MN-WI

10th Percentile
$127,400
Entry / Junior
25th Percentile
$141,547
Mid-Level
50th (Median)
$158,838
Market Midpoint
90th Percentile
$311,639
Senior / Staff

Regional Market Insights & Cost of Living

The cost of living in Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington MN-WI is rated as Moderate. When evaluating offers in this market, total purchasing power reflects local housing and tax obligations. Compared to national baseline levels ($$162,080), candidates in Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington MN-WIcommand a 2% regional rate based on local demand drivers.

CoL Tier: ModerateNational Median: $162,080Data Sources: Built In; 6figr (calculated)
Avg Total Comp
$186,200
Experience Level
ML Research Scientists lead pay; PhD-track roles at top labs exceed $400k TC.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Research Scientist salary in Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington MN-WI?
In Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington MN-WI, the median base salary for a Research Scientist is $158,838 per year. Salaries typically range from $127K for entry-to-mid levels up to $312K for senior practitioners.
How does Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington MN-WI compensation compare to the national average?
Research Scientist pay in Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington MN-WI is 2% below the national median ($162,080 national median). Cost of living for this market is classified as Moderate.
What is the 3-year salary growth trend for Research Scientists in this market?
Compensation for Research Scientists has seen a 10% change over the past 3 years. R&D for generative AI foundational models.
What data sources are used for this Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington MN-WI benchmark?
This benchmark is compiled using Built In; 6figr (calculated), with geographic adjustments based on Verified Cost of Living Indexes and local market surveys.

High Demand Track

Market demand for Research Scientist is at an all-time high. Join the Vetta Marketplace to access verified offers from employers hiring at these benchmarks.

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