Paul Kenneth Peterson (April 13, 1915 – December 31, 1993) was an American lawyer, insurance broker and Republican politician who served as mayor of Minneapolis from 1957 to 1961.

During World War II, he served in Air Combat Intelligence with the U.S. Navy.

After the war, Peterson became involved in politics after working with Governor Luther Youngdahl.

His mayoralty focused on developing the city's core and demolishing neighborhoods such as the Gateway District.

In 1961, Peterson lost his bid for reelection to Democratic challenger Arthur Naftalin.