Bismarck vs Fargo: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Bismarck, ND and Fargo, ND. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bismarck, ND | Fargo, ND |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $124,685 | $136,618▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $59.94 | $65.68▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $106,100 | $113,246▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $111,001 | $113,287▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $172,262▲ | $156,314 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $216,813▲ | $175,413 |
| Total Employed | 30 | 40▲ |
Verdict
Fargo, ND offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Bismarck.
The salary gap between Bismarck and Fargo is $11,933 (9.57%). Fargo's median is -2.84% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bismarck spans $110,713,Fargo spans $62,167. Bismarck has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Fargo ($150,343 effective) pays 9.76% more than Bismarck ($136,980 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bismarck if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($216,813)
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Fargo if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($136,618/year)
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $150,343)
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Bismarck grew -2.9% from 2022 to 2025, compared to 5.2% growth in Fargo over the same period.
Bismarck, ND
$124,730 (2022) → $121,100 (2025)
Fargo, ND
$126,090 (2021) → $132,690 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bismarck, ND
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Bismarck or Fargo?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bismarck and Fargo?
Should I relocate from Bismarck to Fargo as a optometrist?
What do entry-level optometrists earn in Bismarck vs Fargo?
Written by Aisha Patel, OD
Career Analyst
Aisha Patel has 10 years of experience in optometry. She specializes in pediatric vision care. Aisha works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.96% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, OD, a licensed optometrist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov