Rochester vs Winona: Phlebotomist Salary (2026)
Compare phlebotomist salaries between Rochester, MN and Winona, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rochester, MN | Winona, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $49,528▲ | $43,858 |
| Hourly Rate | $23.81▲ | $21.09 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $45,683▲ | $36,077 |
| 25th Percentile | $49,079▲ | $37,495 |
| 75th Percentile | $58,744▲ | $46,420 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $61,712▲ | $54,466 |
| Total Employed | 310▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Rochester, MN offers better overall compensation for phlebotomists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Winona.
The salary gap between Rochester and Winona is $5,670 (12.93%). Rochester's median is +4.80% compared to the US national median of $47,261.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rochester spans $16,029,Winona spans $18,389. Winona has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced phlebotomists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Rochester ($54,534 effective) pays 22.48% more than Winona ($44,526 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($49,528/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($61,712)
- ✓Larger job market (310 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $54,534)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Winona if…
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, phlebotomist salaries in Rochester grew 3.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -2.3% growth in Winona over the same period.
Rochester, MN
$46,040 (2024) → $47,400 (2025)
Winona, MN
$42,940 (2024) → $41,973 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rochester, MN
Winona, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays phlebotomists more: Rochester or Winona?
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Should I relocate from Rochester to Winona as a phlebotomist?
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Related Comparisons
Written by Aisha Patel, MLT
Career Analyst
Aisha has over 10 years of experience in clinical laboratory technology. She specializes in blood collection and processing. She works in a large urban hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.49% 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 Aisha Patel, MLT, a licensed phlebotomist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov