Greater Minnesota Benefits Guide
Comprehensive guide to PFML, health insurance, and employee benefits for Minnesota communities outside the Twin Cities metro area.
80
Counties Covered
2.8M
Population
5-15%
Lower Premiums
8
Rating Areas
Greater Minnesota Regions
Southeast Minnesota
Population: ~550K
Major Employer: Mayo Clinic
RochesterWinonaAustinAlbert Lea+1 more
Northeast Minnesota
Population: ~350K
Major Employer: Essentia Health
DuluthHibbingVirginiaGrand Rapids+1 more
Central Minnesota
Population: ~400K
Major Employer: CentraCare
St. CloudWillmarAlexandriaFergus Falls
Southwest Minnesota
Population: ~250K
Major Employer: Mayo Clinic Health System
MankatoMarshallWorthingtonNew Ulm
Northwest Minnesota
Population: ~200K
Major Employer: Sanford Health
MoorheadBemidjiDetroit LakesThief River Falls
Rural & Outstate Considerations
Health Insurance Networks
Rural areas may have fewer in-network providers. Check plan networks carefully before enrolling.
Tip: Look for plans with broader networks like Blue Cross Blue Shield or UCare.
Telehealth Options
Many plans now offer telehealth, which can be valuable when specialists are hours away.
Tip: Ask about telehealth coverage when comparing plans.
Critical Access Hospitals
Know your nearest critical access hospital and whether it's in-network.
Tip: Most plans cover emergency care regardless of network.
Seasonal Employment
Agriculture and tourism workers may have gaps in employer coverage.
Tip: MNsure Special Enrollment Periods available when losing employer coverage.
Major Greater Minnesota Employers
Mayo Clinic
Rochester
~45,000Healthcare
Essentia Health
Duluth
~15,000Healthcare
CentraCare
St. Cloud
~12,000Healthcare
Sanford Health
Moorhead/Bemidji
~5,000Healthcare
Hormel Foods
Austin
~3,500Food Manufacturing
Digi-Key
Thief River Falls
~4,500Electronics
AGCO
Jackson
~1,500Manufacturing
Marvin Windows
Warroad
~5,000Manufacturing
City-Specific Guides
Greater Minnesota Resources
Greater Minnesota Benefits FAQ
Ready to Explore Your Benefits?
Use our calculators to estimate your PFML benefits and health insurance subsidies.