Here’s What the Next Olmsted County Sheriff Will Earn

I have decided that I will not seek a fourth term as the Olmsted County Sheriff in the fall of 2026. I am grateful for the opportunity the citizens of Olmsted County have trusted in me since my first election in 2014. This term will end in early January 2027.

Kevin Torgerson, who has served as Olmsted County Sheriff for more than a decade, announced late Monday afternoon that he will not seek reelection this fall. With the seat opening up, many residents are now wondering what the job actually pays.

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Olmsted County Sheriff Will Make More Than Minnesota’s Next Governor

Questions about salary have also surfaced in the governor’s race after Gov. Tim Walz announced he will not seek another term. The state’s Compensation Council provides salary recommendations for the governor. When Minnesotans elect a new governor in November, that person will earn exactly $200,000 per year.

It may come as a surprise, but Olmsted County’s sheriff will actually earn more than the governor of Minnesota.

Pay Increase Approved for Olmsted County Sheriff

TSM Rochester

Historically, Olmsted County has paid its elected officials less than comparable “peer” counties such as Dakota, Anoka, and Scott. However, a pay increase approved late last year was designed to help close that gap.

The sheriff’s position received a 6.5% raise this year, increasing the annual salary from $187,830 to $200,039.

KROC News reports that the race to succeed Torgerson is already taking shape. Just 24 hours after his announcement, Captain Tim Parkin, a veteran investigator, officially declared his candidacy. Interested candidates have until May 19 to file.