How Registered Nurse (RN)s in North Dakota get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical North Dakota compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $55,700 | $42,300 | $72,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $69,200 | $52,600 | $90,000 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $79,600 | $60,500 | $103,500 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $95,500 | $72,600 | $124,200 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $108,200 | $82,200 | $140,700 |
Top occupations by median pay in North Dakota — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in North Dakota
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Registered Nurse (RN) salary in North Dakota is $79,600 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $60,500 and the 75th at $103,500.
Pay-wise, North Dakota sits -16% below the national Registered Nurse (RN) median ($94,800). Wages run below the national median, but cost of living is often correspondingly lower; net purchasing power may be similar to higher-paying states.
Senior Registered Nurse (RN)s (10–14 years of experience) in North Dakota earn around $95,500 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $108,200 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), North Dakota ranks 43rd for Registered Nurse (RN) pay. The highest-paying state pays around $153,600 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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