Optometrist Salary in North Dakota
The median optometrist salary in North Dakota is $113,031 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $125,590.
Optometrist Salary Overview in North Dakota (2026)
North Dakota ranks #38 out of 50 states for optometrist compensation. Optometrist salaries in North Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $113,031 per year, optometrists in North Dakota earn $12,559 less than the national median of $125,590.
A key advantage of working in North Dakota is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $113,031 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $125,590 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in North Dakota is significant: optometrists at the 10th percentile earn $70,200, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $172,800 — a $102,600 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 $118,055.
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for optometrists across the country.
Optometrist Salary in North Dakota by Experience
In North Dakota, an entry-level optometrist earns around $73,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $160,200 per year. The cost of living index in North Dakota is 90% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in North Dakota
| Percentile | ND Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $70,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,000 |
| Median (50th) | $113,031 |
| 75th Percentile | $142,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $172,800 |
Optometrist Salary by City in North Dakota
The largest employment areas for optometrists 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 Optometrist in North Dakota
Education
Most optometrist positions require a doctoral degree. North Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in North Dakota
Nationally, optometrist employment is projected to grow 9% over the next decade (faster than average). North Dakota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Optometrists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $47,169 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Optometrist Roles in North Dakota?
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