Business & Finance North Dakota (ND) Rank #37 of 50

Paralegal Salary in North Dakota

The median paralegal salary in North Dakota is $53,280 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $59,200.

Median Salary
$53,280
vs National
$-5,920
State Rank
#37 of 50
Cost of Living
90%

Paralegal Salary Overview in North Dakota (2026)

North Dakota ranks #37 out of 50 states for paralegal compensation. Paralegal salaries in North Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $53,280 per year, paralegals in North Dakota earn $5,920 less than the national median of $59,200.

A key advantage of working in North Dakota is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $53,280 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $59,200 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in North Dakota is significant: paralegals at the 10th percentile earn $34,560, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $83,160 — a $48,600 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 $55,648.

Nationally, paralegal employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for paralegals across the country.

Paralegal Salary in North Dakota by Experience

In North Dakota, an entry-level paralegal earns around $36,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $76,500 per year. The cost of living index in North Dakota is 90% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$36,000
$-4,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$54,000
$-6,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$76,500
$-8,500 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in North Dakota

Percentile ND Salary
10th Percentile $34,560
25th Percentile $42,120
Median (50th) $53,280
75th Percentile $67,500
90th Percentile $83,160

Paralegal Salary by City in North Dakota

The largest employment areas for paralegals 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 Paralegal in North Dakota

Education

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

Key Skills

Legal ResearchDocument DraftingCase ManagementWestlaw/LexisNexisAttention to DetailCommunication

Job Outlook in North Dakota

Nationally, paralegal employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). North Dakota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Paralegal Salary in North Dakota

How much does a Paralegal make in North Dakota? ▼
The median paralegal salary in North Dakota is $53,280 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $59,200. Salaries range from $34,560 (10th percentile) to $83,160 (90th percentile).
How much does a Paralegal make per hour in North Dakota? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $53,280, a paralegal in North Dakota earns approximately $26 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is North Dakota a good state for paralegals? ▼
North Dakota ranks #37 out of 50 states for paralegal pay. The cost of living index is 90% of the national average. Entry-level paralegals earn $36,000, while senior professionals earn $76,500.
How does North Dakota compare to other states for paralegal salary? ▼
The highest paying state for paralegals is Hawaii at $100,640. North Dakota's median of $53,280 ranks #37 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Indiana ($53,280) and Michigan ($53,280).
What is the entry-level paralegal salary in North Dakota? ▼
An entry-level paralegal in North Dakota earns approximately $36,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $54,000. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $76,500.
What city in North Dakota pays paralegals the most? ▼
Fargo is the highest paying city in North Dakota for paralegals, with a median salary of $55,648. Other cities include Bismarck and Grand Forks.