Software Engineer Salary in North Dakota
The median software engineer salary in North Dakota is $106,812 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $124,200.
Software Engineer Salary Overview in North Dakota (2026)
North Dakota ranks #41 out of 50 states for software engineer compensation. Software Engineer salaries in North Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $106,812 per year, software engineers in North Dakota earn $17,388 less than the national median of $124,200.
A key advantage of working in North Dakota is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $106,812 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $118,680 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in North Dakota is significant: software engineers at the 10th percentile earn $64,156, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $170,779 — a $106,623 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 $111,780.
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in North Dakota and beyond.
Software Engineer Salary in North Dakota by Experience
In North Dakota, an entry-level software engineer earns around $67,080, while experienced professionals earn up to $159,100 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 | $64,156 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,452 |
| Median (50th) | $106,812 |
| 75th Percentile | $136,052 |
| 90th Percentile | $170,779 |
Software Engineer Salary by City in North Dakota
The largest employment areas for software engineers 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 Software Engineer in North Dakota
Education
Most software engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. North Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in North Dakota
Nationally, software engineer employment is projected to grow 25% over the next decade (much faster than average). North Dakota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Software Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $52,288 over your career trajectory.
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