Agriculture & Environment North Dakota (ND) Rank #37 of 50

Agricultural Scientist Salary in North Dakota

The median agricultural scientist salary in North Dakota is $66,744 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $74,160.

Median Salary
$66,744
vs National
$-7,416
State Rank
#37 of 50
Cost of Living
90%

Agricultural Scientist Salary Overview in North Dakota (2026)

North Dakota ranks #37 out of 50 states for agricultural scientist compensation. Agricultural Scientist salaries in North Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $66,744 per year, agricultural scientists in North Dakota earn $7,416 less than the national median of $74,160.

A key advantage of working in North Dakota is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $66,744 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $74,160 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in North Dakota is significant: agricultural scientists at the 10th percentile earn $39,600, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $109,800 — a $70,200 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in North Dakota for this role is Fargo, where the median reaches $69,710.

Nationally, agricultural scientist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for agricultural scientists across the country.

Agricultural Scientist Salary in North Dakota by Experience

In North Dakota, an entry-level agricultural scientist earns around $43,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $103,500 per year. The cost of living index in North Dakota is 90% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$43,200
$-4,800 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$68,400
$-7,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$103,500
$-11,500 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in North Dakota

Percentile ND Salary
10th Percentile $39,600
25th Percentile $50,400
Median (50th) $66,744
75th Percentile $88,200
90th Percentile $109,800

Agricultural Scientist Salary by City in North Dakota

The largest employment areas for agricultural scientists in North Dakota include Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, and Minot. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Agricultural Scientist in North Dakota

Education

Most agricultural scientist positions require a bachelor's degree. North Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

AgronomyResearch MethodsData AnalysisSoil ScienceGeneticsScientific Writing

Job Outlook in North Dakota

Nationally, agricultural scientist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). North Dakota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Agricultural Scientist Salary in North Dakota

How much does a Agricultural Scientist make in North Dakota? ▼
The median agricultural scientist salary in North Dakota is $66,744 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $74,160. Salaries range from $39,600 (10th percentile) to $109,800 (90th percentile).
How much does a Agricultural Scientist make per hour in North Dakota? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $66,744, a agricultural scientist in North Dakota earns approximately $32 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is North Dakota a good state for agricultural scientists? ▼
North Dakota ranks #37 out of 50 states for agricultural scientist pay. The cost of living index is 90% of the national average. Entry-level agricultural scientists earn $43,200, while senior professionals earn $103,500.
How does North Dakota compare to other states for agricultural scientist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for agricultural scientists is Hawaii at $126,072. North Dakota's median of $66,744 ranks #37 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Michigan ($66,744) and Nebraska ($66,744).
What is the entry-level agricultural scientist salary in North Dakota? ▼
An entry-level agricultural scientist in North Dakota earns approximately $43,200 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $68,400. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $103,500.
What city in North Dakota pays agricultural scientists the most? ▼
Fargo is the highest paying city in North Dakota for agricultural scientists, with a median salary of $69,710. Other cities include Bismarck and Grand Forks.