Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in North Dakota
The median substance abuse counselor salary in North Dakota is $44,739 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $49,710.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary Overview in North Dakota (2026)
North Dakota ranks #38 out of 50 states for substance abuse counselor compensation. Substance Abuse Counselor salaries in North Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $44,739 per year, substance abuse counselors in North Dakota earn $4,971 less than the national median of $49,710.
A key advantage of working in North Dakota is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $44,739 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $49,710 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in North Dakota is significant: substance abuse counselors at the 10th percentile earn $27,000, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $73,800 — a $46,800 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 $46,727.
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in North Dakota and beyond.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in North Dakota by Experience
In North Dakota, an entry-level substance abuse counselor earns around $29,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $70,200 per year. The cost of living index in North Dakota is 90% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in North Dakota
| Percentile | ND Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $27,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $34,200 |
| Median (50th) | $44,739 |
| 75th Percentile | $58,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $73,800 |
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary by City in North Dakota
The largest employment areas for substance abuse counselors 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 Substance Abuse Counselor in North Dakota
Education
Most substance abuse counselor positions require a bachelor's degree. North Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in North Dakota
Nationally, substance abuse counselor employment is projected to grow 22% over the next decade (much faster than average). North Dakota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 338,100 other Substance Abuse Counselors.
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