Minnesota’s Governor Is Stepping Down—Here’s How Much the Job Pays

Early Monday morning, KROC News confirmed online reports that Minnesota Governor Tim Walz will not be seeking a third term. Walz later released a statement saying in part, "As I reflected on this moment with my family and my team over the holidays, I came to the conclusion that I can’t give a political campaign my all."

This news means Minnesotans will head to the polls this November to elect a new leader who will take charge in January 2027. And like any major job opening, it raises an obvious question: what’s the salary?

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How Much Does The Governor of Minnesota Get Paid?

According to data from the Minnesota Legislative Reference Library, state law established the Compensation Council in 1983 to provide salary recommendations for various state officials. At that time, the Governor’s official salary was set at $75,000.

The Governor's salary is scheduled to reach $200,000 this year, but that's not what Governor Walz is being paid. Walz has consistently declined the authorized raises, choosing instead to remain at the pay level set in 2016. He earns $127,629 per year.

The Perks of Being Governor in Minnesota

• The Governor’s Residence, located at 1006 Summit Avenue in St. Paul, serves as both a home and a venue for state functions. The state covers the costs of staffing, maintenance, and utilities for the residence.
• Security Detail: The Governor receives 24-hour protection provided by the Minnesota State Patrol’s Executive Protection Unit. This includes transportation in state-owned vehicles.
• Pension and Insurance: Like other state employees, the Governor is eligible for a comprehensive insurance package and participates in the state’s retirement system.

The countdown to Minnesota's next Governor has begun, with the primaries scheduled for August 11th and the final vote on November 3rd.