Healthcare North Dakota (ND) Rank #38 of 50

Dental Hygienist Salary in North Dakota

The median dental hygienist salary in North Dakota is $73,260 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $81,400.

Median Salary
$73,260
vs National
$-8,140
State Rank
#38 of 50
Cost of Living
90%

Dental Hygienist Salary Overview in North Dakota (2026)

North Dakota ranks #38 out of 50 states for dental hygienist compensation. Dental Hygienist salaries in North Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $73,260 per year, dental hygienists in North Dakota earn $8,140 less than the national median of $81,400.

A key advantage of working in North Dakota is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $73,260 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $81,400 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in North Dakota is significant: dental hygienists at the 10th percentile earn $52,380, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $97,380 — a $45,000 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 $76,516.

Nationally, dental hygienist employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for dental hygienists across the country.

Dental Hygienist Salary in North Dakota by Experience

In North Dakota, an entry-level dental hygienist earns around $49,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $94,500 per year. The cost of living index in North Dakota is 90% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$49,500
$-5,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$72,000
$-8,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$94,500
$-10,500 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in North Dakota

Percentile ND Salary
10th Percentile $52,380
25th Percentile $60,840
Median (50th) $73,260
75th Percentile $88,200
90th Percentile $97,380

Dental Hygienist Salary by City in North Dakota

The largest employment areas for dental hygienists 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 Dental Hygienist in North Dakota

Education

Most dental hygienist positions require a associate's degree. North Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Dental CleaningX-ray ImagingPatient EducationPeriodontal AssessmentInfection ControlDental Software

Job Outlook in North Dakota

Nationally, dental hygienist employment is projected to grow 7% 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: Dental Hygienist Salary in North Dakota

How much does a Dental Hygienist make in North Dakota? ▼
The median dental hygienist salary in North Dakota is $73,260 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $81,400. Salaries range from $52,380 (10th percentile) to $97,380 (90th percentile).
How much does a Dental Hygienist make per hour in North Dakota? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $73,260, a dental hygienist in North Dakota earns approximately $35 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is North Dakota a good state for dental hygienists? ▼
North Dakota ranks #38 out of 50 states for dental hygienist pay. The cost of living index is 90% of the national average. Entry-level dental hygienists earn $49,500, while senior professionals earn $94,500.
How does North Dakota compare to other states for dental hygienist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for dental hygienists is Hawaii at $144,892. North Dakota's median of $73,260 ranks #38 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Michigan ($73,260) and Nebraska ($73,260).
What is the entry-level dental hygienist salary in North Dakota? ▼
An entry-level dental hygienist in North Dakota earns approximately $49,500 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $72,000. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $94,500.
What city in North Dakota pays dental hygienists the most? ▼
Fargo is the highest paying city in North Dakota for dental hygienists, with a median salary of $76,516. Other cities include Bismarck and Grand Forks.