What Is a Good Salary in North Dakota?
A good salary in North Dakota is generally considered $66,000/year for a single person and $98,000/year for a family of four in 2026. The cost of living in North Dakota is below the national average, offering strong purchasing power for most income levels. Up to 2.9% state income tax — lowest in the nation.
The median household income in North Dakota is $65,315, meaning half of all households earn more than this and half earn less. A “good” salary typically means earning comfortably above the median and being able to save, invest, and enjoy discretionary spending without financial stress.
Good Salary Thresholds in North Dakota (2026)
| Situation | Minimum Comfortable | Good | Excellent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single person | $49,500 | $66,000 | $92,400 |
| Couple (dual income) | $73,500 | $98,000 | $132,300 |
| Family of 4 | $88,200 | $112,699 | $151,900 |
Monthly Breakdown: Living on $66,000/Year in North Dakota
Here’s what your monthly finances might look like on $66,000/year in North Dakota:
| Item | Monthly Estimate |
|---|---|
| Gross Monthly Salary | $5,500 |
| Estimated Taxes (~25%) | -$1,375 |
| Estimated Take-Home | $4,125 |
| Average 1BR Rent in North Dakota | -$900 |
| Groceries (avg) | -$400 |
| Transportation | -$350 |
| Utilities & Internet | -$200 |
| Remaining (savings, fun, other) | $2,275 |
This illustrates why $66,000/year is a solid benchmark for comfortable living in North Dakota — it leaves room for both essentials and discretionary spending. However, North Dakota’s cost varies significantly between metro areas and rural communities.
Cost of Living in North Dakota: What to Know
North Dakota’s cost of living is below the national average, offering strong purchasing power for most income levels. Here are the key factors:
- Housing: Average 1-bedroom rent is approximately $900/month. Home prices vary widely — from $90,000 in rural areas to $360,000 in major metros.
- Taxes: Up to 2.9% state income tax — lowest in the nation.
- Transportation: Most residents own a car. Public transit is limited outside major cities.
- Healthcare: Healthcare costs vary by employer benefits. Uninsured costs are above average nationally.
Top Employers in North Dakota
The highest-paying jobs in North Dakota are concentrated with major employers including: energy sector, agriculture, healthcare. These organizations consistently offer salaries at or above the state’s “good” threshold.
How to Know if Your Salary Is Good in North Dakota
A salary is generally “good” in North Dakota if it allows you to:
- Cover housing costs without spending more than 30% of gross income on rent/mortgage
- Build an emergency fund of 3–6 months of expenses
- Contribute 10–15% to retirement savings
- Afford transportation, food, healthcare, and some discretionary spending
- Pay off any debt within a reasonable timeframe
At $66,000/year single or $98,000/year for a family, these benchmarks are achievable in North Dakota.
High-Paying Jobs in North Dakota in 2026
If you’re looking to earn a “good” or “excellent” salary in North Dakota, these roles consistently pay well:
| Job Title | Average Salary in North Dakota |
|---|---|
| Software Engineer | $84,480 |
| Physician | $148,500 |
| Pharmacist | $84,480 |
| Product Manager | $91,080 |
| Data Scientist | $97,680 |
| Financial Advisor | $72,600 |
| Nurse (RN) | $54,120 |
| Civil Engineer | $64,680 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good salary in North Dakota in 2026?
A good salary in North Dakota is approximately $66,000/year for a single professional or $98,000/year for a family. This allows comfortable living while saving for retirement and emergencies.
What is the median income in North Dakota?
The median household income in North Dakota is $65,315/year. Earning above this puts you in the upper half of income earners in the state.
Is $66,000 a good salary in North Dakota?
Yes — $66,000/year is considered a good salary for a single person in North Dakota. After taxes and typical living expenses, you would have meaningful room for savings and discretionary spending.
What salary do you need to live comfortably in North Dakota?
The minimum comfortable salary for a single person in North Dakota is approximately $49,500/year. Below that, living expenses can become tight depending on your city and lifestyle.
How does North Dakota’s cost of living compare to national average?
North Dakota’s cost of living is below the national average, offering strong purchasing power for most income levels.
Related Resources
Data Sources
Income and cost-of-living data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau, and Glassdoor.