Bismarck vs Fargo: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist 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 | $85,622▲ | $84,375 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.16▲ | $40.56 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,337▲ | $68,885 |
| 25th Percentile | $77,656 | $79,439▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $101,102 | $102,184▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $119,374▲ | $109,553 |
| Total Employed | 130 | 210▲ |
Verdict
Bismarck, ND offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Fargo.
The salary gap between Bismarck and Fargo is $1,247 (1.48%). Bismarck's median is -17.19% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bismarck spans $46,037,Fargo spans $40,668. 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, Bismarck ($94,065 effective) pays 1.31% more than Fargo ($92,851 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bismarck if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($85,622/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($119,374)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $94,065)
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Fargo if…
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Bismarck grew 23.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 14.6% growth in Fargo over the same period.
Bismarck, ND
$67,370 (2019) → $83,080 (2025)
Fargo, ND
$71,420 (2019) → $81,870 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bismarck, ND
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Bismarck or Fargo?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bismarck and Fargo?
Should I relocate from Bismarck to Fargo as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Bismarck vs Fargo?
Written by Jordan Miller, OTR/L
Career Analyst
Jordan has 10 years of experience in occupational therapy. They specialize in pediatrics and work in a rehabilitation clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.06% 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 Jordan Miller, OTR/L, a licensed occupational therapist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov