Agriculture & Environment North Dakota (ND) Rank #37 of 50

Zoologist Salary in North Dakota

The median zoologist salary in North Dakota is $61,407 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $68,230.

Median Salary
$61,407
vs National
$-6,823
State Rank
#37 of 50
Cost of Living
90%

Zoologist Salary Overview in North Dakota (2026)

North Dakota ranks #37 out of 50 states for zoologist compensation. Zoologist salaries in North Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $61,407 per year, zoologists in North Dakota earn $6,823 less than the national median of $68,230.

A key advantage of working in North Dakota is its below-average cost of living (90% of the national index). This means the $61,407 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $68,230 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in North Dakota is significant: zoologists at the 10th percentile earn $37,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $100,800 — a $63,000 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 $64,136.

Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for zoologists across the country.

Zoologist Salary in North Dakota by Experience

In North Dakota, an entry-level zoologist earns around $40,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $94,500 per year. The cost of living index in North Dakota is 90% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$40,500
$-4,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$63,000
$-7,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$94,500
$-10,500 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in North Dakota

Percentile ND Salary
10th Percentile $37,800
25th Percentile $48,600
Median (50th) $61,407
75th Percentile $81,000
90th Percentile $100,800

Zoologist Salary by City in North Dakota

The largest employment areas for zoologists 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 Zoologist in North Dakota

Education

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

Key Skills

Wildlife BiologyField ResearchData AnalysisGISScientific WritingConservation

Job Outlook in North Dakota

Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). North Dakota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Data shows Zoologists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $33,093 over your career trajectory.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Zoologist Salary in North Dakota

How much does a Zoologist make in North Dakota? ▼
The median zoologist salary in North Dakota is $61,407 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $68,230. Salaries range from $37,800 (10th percentile) to $100,800 (90th percentile).
How much does a Zoologist make per hour in North Dakota? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $61,407, a zoologist in North Dakota earns approximately $30 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is North Dakota a good state for zoologists? ▼
North Dakota ranks #37 out of 50 states for zoologist pay. The cost of living index is 90% of the national average. Entry-level zoologists earn $40,500, while senior professionals earn $94,500.
How does North Dakota compare to other states for zoologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for zoologists is Hawaii at $115,991. North Dakota's median of $61,407 ranks #37 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Michigan ($61,407) and Nebraska ($61,407).
What is the entry-level zoologist salary in North Dakota? ▼
An entry-level zoologist in North Dakota earns approximately $40,500 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $63,000. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $94,500.
What city in North Dakota pays zoologists the most? ▼
Fargo is the highest paying city in North Dakota for zoologists, with a median salary of $64,136. Other cities include Bismarck and Grand Forks.