Development Director Jobs in Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis, Minnesota$99,750 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Development Director Jobs in Minneapolis

Looking for a Development Director job in Minneapolis? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Development Director in Minneapolis, MN.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Minneapolis has a strong job market for Development Directors. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Development Director Salary in Minneapolis

Entry Level
$62,475
Median
$99,750
Senior Level
$144,900

Development Director salaries in Minneapolis are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Minneapolis is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Development StrategyMajor GiftsBoard RelationsTeam LeadershipFundraising

Development Director Job Market in Minneapolis

Minneapolis, MN is a major regional employment hub for Development Director professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Minneapolis offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Healthcare leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Development Director roles across various sectors. The market for Development Director positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Development Directors in Minneapolis

State of MinnesotaMetro TransitXcel EnergyUniversity of Minnesota

Major employers hiring Development Directors in Minneapolis include State of Minnesota, Metro Transit, Xcel Energy, University of Minnesota. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Development Directors in Minneapolis

Living in Minneapolis as a Development Director means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,600/month. At median Development Director salary, housing is quite affordable at 19% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,200/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

105
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.6K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 2
Market Size

Commuting as a Development Director in Minneapolis

Minneapolis Metro light rail, bus system, and excellent bike infrastructure. The average commute time is 24 minutes. Blue Line connects downtown to MSP Airport and Mall of America. Excellent skyway system for winter commuting downtown.

Best neighborhoods for Development Directors in Minneapolis: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Development Director professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Minnesota

Minnesota has relatively high state income taxes. A Development Director earning $99,750 might pay approximately $7,980 in state income tax. However, Minnesota's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Development Directors

The job outlook for Development Directors in Minneapolis is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. Minneapolis's growing economy creates new positions regularly, often with less competition than coastal tech hubs. In-demand skills include Development Strategy, Major Gifts, Board Relations, Team Leadership.

Relocating to Minneapolis

Minnesota has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading. Winters can be harsh. Budget for winter clothing, and many employers understand weather-related delays during snow events.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Development Director salary in Minneapolis, MN?

The average Development Director salary in Minneapolis, MN is $99,750 per year. Entry-level Development Directors typically start around $62,475, while experienced professionals can earn $144,900 or more. The national average for Development Director roles is $95,000.

How many Development Director jobs are available in Minneapolis?

Minneapolis has a strong job market with regular openings for Development Director professionals. Major employers hiring Development Directors include State of Minnesota, Metro Transit, Xcel Energy, University of Minnesota. The Healthcare and Finance sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Minneapolis a good city for Development Directors?

Minneapolis is an excellent choice for Development Directors. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's healthcare industry creates strong demand for nonprofit professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Development Directors in Minneapolis?

Top skills for Development Directors in Minneapolis include Development Strategy, Major Gifts, Board Relations, Team Leadership, Fundraising. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Development Directors in Minneapolis?

Minneapolis's cost of living is near the national average (105% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,600/month. Purchasing power in Minneapolis is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Development Directors in Minneapolis?

Minneapolis Metro light rail, bus system, and excellent bike infrastructure. The average commute is 24 minutes. Blue Line connects downtown to MSP Airport and Mall of America.

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