Fargo vs Mandan: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Fargo, ND and Mandan, ND. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fargo, ND | Mandan, ND |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,618▲ | $120,906 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.68▲ | $58.13 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $113,246▲ | $74,951 |
| 25th Percentile | $113,287▲ | $99,458 |
| 75th Percentile | $156,314▲ | $143,501 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $175,413▲ | $169,697 |
| Total Employed | 40▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Fargo, ND offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Mandan.
The salary gap between Fargo and Mandan is $15,712 (13.00%). 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 Fargo spans $62,167,Mandan spans $94,746. Mandan has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced optometrists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Fargo ($150,343 effective) pays 14.40% more than Mandan ($131,420 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fargo if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($136,618/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($175,413)
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $150,343)
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Mandan if…
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Fargo grew 5.2% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 6.7% growth in Mandan over the same period.
Fargo, ND
$126,090 (2021) → $132,690 (2025)
Mandan, ND
$110,061 (2024) → $117,430 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Mandan, ND
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Fargo or Mandan?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fargo and Mandan?
Should I relocate from Fargo to Mandan as a optometrist?
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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