Accountant in Bismarck, ND

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Accountants considering a move to Bismarck, ND.

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The Salary Picture: Where Bismarck Stands

As a local, I can tell you that Bismarck’s accounting market is stable, predictable, and heavily influenced by the state government and healthcare sectors. The numbers reflect a modest but comfortable living standard, especially when you factor in the low cost of living.

First, the baseline data. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local job market data, the median salary for accountants in Bismarck is $83,394 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $40.09. This is slightly below the national average of $86,080, a typical adjustment for a smaller metro area. The market is tight—there are approximately 150 accountants employed in the metro area, and the 10-year job growth is projected at 4%. This isn't a boomtown for finance, but it offers consistent demand, particularly for CPAs and those with government or healthcare experience.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Salaries in Bismarck scale predictably with experience. The table below outlines the typical ranges you can expect locally.

Experience Level	Typical Years	Estimated Annual Salary Range	Key Local Employers
Entry-Level	0-3 years	$60,000 - $72,000	State Agencies, Local Firms, Credit Unions
Mid-Career	4-9 years	$75,000 - $95,000	Sanford Health, Bismarck State, Larger Local Firms
Senior/Manager	10-15 years	$95,000 - $120,000	ND State Government, BSC, Top-Tier Regional Firms
Expert/Partner	15+ years	$125,000+	Principal at local CPA firms, Senior State Auditor

Comparison to Other ND Cities

Bismarck isn't the top-paying city in North Dakota, but it's a strong second. The capital's stable government jobs keep salaries respectable, though they don't compete with the oil-fueled wages of western ND.

City	Median Salary	Key Industry Driver	Cost of Living
Bismarck	$83,394	Government & Healthcare	Low (89.6)
Fargo	~$85,000	Higher Ed & Tech	Moderate (92.0)
Grand Forks	~$81,000	Air Force Base & UND	Low (90.1)
Williston	~$95,000	Oil & Gas	High (105+)

Insider Tip: In Bismarck, a move from a mid-career role to a senior manager position at a firm like Eide Bailly or a state agency directorship can push you past the $100k mark. However, the "partner" track at local CPA firms is longer, as the market isn't as dense as in larger metros.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $83,394 sounds solid, but let's break down what it means for your monthly budget in Bismarck. The city has a cost of living index of 89.6 (US avg = 100), meaning your money goes further here than in most places.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Single Earner)

Here’s a realistic look at take-home pay for an accountant earning the median salary, assuming a standard tax filing (single, no dependents).

• Gross Monthly Pay: $83,394 / 12 = $6,949.50
• Est. Take-Home (after taxes, FICA, state tax): ~$5,400
• Average 1BR Rent (Citywide): $848
• Utilities, Internet, Phone: ~$220
• Groceries & Household: ~$400
• Transportation (Gas/Car Insurance): ~$250 (Bismarck is car-dependent)
• Health Insurance (Employer Share): ~$300
• Retirement (401k, 5% match): ~$347
• Discretionary/Entertainment: ~$1,035

Monthly Surplus: ~$0 (This is a tight but manageable budget. It leaves little room for major savings unless you adjust deductions or have dual income.)

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

Yes, absolutely. This is where Bismarck shines for accountants. While the median salary is below the national average, the housing market is exceptionally affordable.

• Median Home Price (Bismarck Metro): ~$285,000
• 20% Down Payment: $57,000
• Principal & Interest (30-yr @ 6.5%): ~$1,439/month
• Property Taxes & Insurance (est.): ~$400/month
• Total Mortgage Payment: ~$1,839/month

With a $5,400 monthly take-home, a mortgage of ~$1,840 is under the recommended 28-30% of gross income. This is very feasible on a single income of $83,394, and even easier with a second earner. Many young professionals in Bismarck are homeowners within 2-3 years of moving here.

Where the Jobs Are: Bismarck's Major Employers

Bismarck's job market is dominated by a few key sectors: government, healthcare, education, and finance. The "150 jobs" in the metro area are concentrated in these organizations.

1. North Dakota State Government: The single largest employer. The State Auditor's Office, Tax Department, and various agencies (like the Dept. of Commerce) hire accountants regularly. Stable, good benefits, and pensions (or a 401k plan). Hiring is often tied to the state's two-year budget cycle.
2. Sanford Health: A massive regional healthcare system headquartered in Bismarck. Their financial operations are complex, requiring accountants for revenue cycle, grant compliance, and reporting. They are always growing and have a constant need for financial staff.
3. St. Alexius Medical Center (now part of CHI): The other major hospital system. Similar to Sanford, it offers roles in corporate accounting and financial analysis. The merger with CHI has created more complex financial reporting needs.
4. Bismarck State College (BSC): The state's community college. They have in-house accountants for institutional finance, grants, and endowment management. A great workplace for those seeking a stable, lower-stress environment.
5. Local CPA Firms (Eide Bailly, Brady, Ware, & Co., etc.): The top-tier regional firms have a Bismarck presence. They handle tax and audit for local businesses, non-profits, and agribusiness. This is the primary path for public accounting careers in the city.
6. First International Bank & Trust & Gate City Bank: Major regional banks with a strong Bismarck footprint. They hire accountants for internal audit, loan review, and commercial lending support.

Hiring Trends: Government and healthcare are the most recession-proof. Public accounting sees seasonal hiring surges (tax season, audit deadlines). The 4% growth is slow but steady; turnover is low, so you need to be proactive with networking. Knowing someone at Sanford or the State Auditor's office is a significant advantage.

Getting Licensed in ND

For accountants, especially those aiming for the CPA credential, North Dakota's requirements are straightforward and aligned with the 150-hour rule.

• Education: A bachelor’s degree (120 credits) is the minimum to sit for the CPA exam. To be licensed, you need 150 semester hours of college credit, including a concentration in accounting (typically 24-30 hours of upper-level accounting and 24 hours of business courses).
• Exam & Experience: You must pass all four parts of the Uniform CPA Exam. For licensure, North Dakota requires one year of accounting experience (2,000 hours) under the supervision of a licensed CPA. This can be in public accounting, industry, or government.
• Ethics Exam: You must pass the AICPA Professional Ethics Exam.
• Costs:
  • CPA Exam Fees: ~$1,500 (varies by state)
  • Review Course: $1,500 - $3,000 (e.g., Becker, Roger)
  • State Application/License Fee: ~$300
  • Total Estimated Cost: $3,300 - $4,800

Timeline to Get Started:

1. College (0-4 years): Complete 150 credits at NDSU or University of Mary (Bismarck-based options are limited; many finish at UND or online).
2. Pass CPA Exam (6-18 months): Can be done while working.
3. Gain Experience (1 year): Work under a CPA in Bismarck.
4. Apply for License: Submit to the North Dakota State Board of Accountancy.

Insider Tip: The Bismarck job market heavily values the CPA. If you're an accountant without it, getting licensed is the fastest way to unlock the $95,000+ salary range. It's non-negotiable for senior roles in government and public accounting here.

Best Neighborhoods for Accountants

Bismarck is a sprawling, easy-to-navigate city. Your choice of neighborhood depends on your commute, lifestyle, and whether you want to be near downtown or in a quieter suburb.

1. Downtown Bismarck: Best for young professionals who want walkability to restaurants, breweries, and the Capitol. Close to state government jobs. The downside? Older housing stock and higher prices per square foot.

   • Rent (1BR): $950 - $1,200
   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to most employers.

2. South Bismarck (Regency/Arrowhead): The classic suburban choice. Near the Kirkwood Mall, great schools, and new developments. Popular with families and young professionals. A straight shot commute to hospitals and government buildings.

   • Rent (1BR): $850 - $1,000
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes.

3. North Bismarck (Boulder Crescent/Blvd): A mix of older, established neighborhoods and new builds. Closer to Bismarck State College and the Riverfront. Offers a quieter, more residential feel with easy access to the interstate.

   • Rent (1BR): $800 - $950
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes.

4. East Bismarck (near River Road): The most scenic area, with the Missouri River running through it. Great for outdoor enthusiasts. A bit more spread out, but still a short drive to downtown and the hospitals.

   • Rent (1BR): $875 - $1,100
   • Commute: 10-20 minutes.

Insider Tip: Traffic is nearly non-existent. A "bad" commute is 20 minutes. Most accountants I know live in South Bismarck for the balance of amenities and space, but if you work for the state, downtown living is unbeatable for the short walk to the Capitol.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Your career trajectory in Bismarck will be defined by specialization and public vs. private sector paths.

Specialty Premiums:

• CPA: Essential for the top tier. Adds a 15-25% premium to salary over non-CPAs.
• Government Accounting (GASB): Highly valued for state and local government roles. No direct premium, but it unlocks the most stable, high-paying jobs.
• Healthcare Revenue Cycle: Expertise in this is golden at Sanford and CHI. Can lead to director-level roles.
• Forensic/Investigative: Niche, but the State Auditor's Office and legal firms offer opportunities.

Advancement Paths:

• Public Accounting: Staff Accountant → Senior → Manager → Partner (at a local firm). This is a long road but offers the highest ceiling ($125,000+).
• Private Industry: Accountant → Senior Accountant → Controller → CFO (at a mid-sized local business). CFO salaries can reach $150,000+ but are less common.
• Government: Accountant → Senior Accountant → Program Manager → Agency Director. Steady, with excellent benefits (like a pension if you were grandfathered, or a strong 401k). Top state agency financial directors can earn over $110,000.

10-Year Outlook

The 4% job growth is modest. Don't expect a flood of new openings. Your growth will come from:

1. Taking over from retiring accountants. The workforce is aging.
2. Moving up within your current organization. Promotions are the primary driver of salary increases.
3. Specializing. Generalists get paid the median. Specialists (CPA, healthcare, government) get paid $100,000+.

The Verdict: Is Bismarck Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: You can buy a home on a single accountant's salary.	Limited Job Market: Only ~150 jobs. It's a small pond.
Stable, Recession-Resistant Employers: Government and healthcare are always hiring.	Slower Career Growth: The 4% growth means you must be patient and network.
Easy Commute & Quality of Life: Low stress, family-friendly, great outdoor access.	Can Feel "Small": Limited dining, arts, and nightlife compared to Fargo or Minneapolis.
Strong Sense of Community: Easy to get involved and known in your field.	Weather is Harsh: Long, cold winters (Oct-April) can be a dealbreaker.
Low Competition: Fewer accountants mean you stand out faster with the right credentials.	CPA is Highly Valued: Without it, you may hit a ceiling sooner.

Final Recommendation

Bismarck is an excellent choice for accountants who prioritize stability, affordability, and quality of life over aggressive career growth and urban excitement.

It's ideal for:

• New graduates who want to buy a home quickly.
• CPAs seeking a stable, well-compensated role in government or healthcare.
• Mid-career professionals looking to slow down and enjoy a community-oriented life.

It's not the best fit for:

• Those who thrive on high-energy, fast-paced markets.
• Specialists in niches like tech, investment banking, or international finance.
• Anyone who can't handle severe winter conditions.

FAQs

Q: Do I need a CPA to get a good job in Bismarck?
A: For the top-tier roles paying $95,000+ in government, healthcare, and public accounting, the CPA is essential. You can get a job as a staff accountant without it, but it will be harder to advance past the mid-career level.

Q: Is the market saturated?
A: No. With only 150 jobs and 4% growth, it's not saturated, but it's also not expanding. There's a steady need for replacements, not new positions. Networking is critical.

Q: What's the biggest surprise about being an accountant in Bismarck?
A: The importance of relationships. In a small market, your reputation matters more than your resume. Who you know at Sanford, the State, or a local firm will open more doors than any online application.

Q: Can I work remotely for a company outside North Dakota while living in Bismarck?
A: Yes. This is becoming more common. The lower cost of living makes a $80,000+ remote salary go very far. However, for licensure, you need to be careful with state tax reciprocity and the requirements for maintaining a CPA license if you're working for an out-of-state firm.

Q: How do the benefits compare to salary?
A: Excellent, especially in government and healthcare. While the $83,394 median salary is modest, state employees and hospital workers often get robust health insurance, generous PTO, and strong retirement contributions (or pensions). Always calculate total compensation, not just salary.