Social Worker Salary in Grand Forks, North Dakota
The median social worker salary in Grand Forks, ND is $48,708 per year, which is 12% below the national median and 2.2% below the North Dakota state average.
Social Worker Pay in Grand Forks: What to Expect (2026)
Grand Forks offers a median social worker salary of $48,708, which is $1,107 below the North Dakota state average of $49,815. Compared to the national median of $55,350, Grand Forks pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Grand Forks's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 88% of the national average. This means the $48,708 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $55,350 in an average-cost city. This makes Grand Forks an attractive option for social workers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for social workers in Grand Forks spans from $32,032 at the 10th percentile to $77,264 at the 90th percentile — a $45,232 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $33,440, while senior social workers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $72,160. Grand Forks is a smaller market (pop. 56,588), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Social Worker Salary in Grand Forks by Experience
In Grand Forks, an entry-level social worker earns around $33,440, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,160 per year. The local cost of living index is 88% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Grand Forks, ND
| Percentile | Grand Forks |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,032 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,896 |
| Median (50th) | $48,708 |
| 75th Percentile | $61,952 |
| 90th Percentile | $77,264 |
Social Worker Salary in Other North Dakota Cities
How to Become a Social Worker in Grand Forks
Education
Most social worker positions require a bachelor's degree. Grand Forks and the surrounding North Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, social worker employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Grand Forks may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Social Worker Jobs in Grand Forks
Browse open social worker positions in Grand Forks, ND: