Bismarck, ND: A Career Guide for Cosmetologists

As a local career analyst who has watched the Bismarck-Mandan job market for over a decade, I can tell you that the cosmetology field here is stable, community-focused, and deeply tied to the region's economic pulse. Bismarck isn't a sprawling metropolis, and the beauty industry isn't driven by celebrity stylists or high-fashion trends. Instead, it's built on repeat clients, word-of-mouth, and serving the needs of a steady population. If you're considering a move, you need a clear picture of the finances, the employers, and the lifestyle. This guide uses hard data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the North Dakota Board of Cosmetology, and local market observations to give you the facts.

The Salary Picture: Where Bismarck Stands

Let's get straight to the numbers. The financial reality for a cosmetologist in Bismarck is modest but manageable, especially given the city's low cost of living. The median salary for cosmetologists here is $37,172 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $17.87 per hour. It's important to understand that this is a median figure, meaning half of the professionals in the area earn more, and half earn less. When compared to the national average of $38,370, Bismarck sits just slightly below the U.S. norm—a difference that is more than offset by the region's affordability.

The local job market is niche. There are approximately 150 cosmetology jobs in the metro area, which includes Bismarck and its sister city, Mandan. This isn't a city with a high turnover rate; positions are often filled through networks and long-standing relationships. The 10-year job growth projection for the field is 8%, which aligns with the national outlook but reflects a mature, stable market rather than a boom. You won't see explosive growth, but you also won't see sudden collapses.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Salaries in the beauty industry, particularly in a market like Bismarck, are heavily influenced by experience, specialization, and the ability to build a loyal client base. The following table provides an estimated breakdown based on local market trends and BLS data for the region.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Factors in Bismarck
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$28,000 - $34,000	Often starts in salons like Cost Cutters or Supercuts, focusing on speed and volume. Commission is low.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$35,000 - $42,000	Building a steady client book, possibly offering specialized services (e.g., color correction, extensions).
Senior (8-15 years)	$40,000 - $50,000	High client retention, possible role as a senior stylist or educator within a salon. May rent a chair.
Expert (15+ years)	$45,000 - $60,000+	Often salon owners, master colorists, or specialists with a dedicated, high-end clientele. Income can exceed this with a full book.

Comparison to Other ND Cities

Bismarck is the state capital and one of its larger cities, but it's not the most lucrative market in North Dakota. Fargo, with its larger population and university presence, typically commands slightly higher wages. However, the difference is marginal when factored against the cost of living.

City	Median Annual Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)
Bismarck	$37,172	89.6
Fargo	~$38,500	94.2
Grand Forks	~$36,800	91.5

Insider Tip: Don't chase a slightly higher salary in Fargo if you don't want a larger city feel. The client base in Bismarck is often more stable and loyal, which can lead to consistent earnings over time.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $37,172 is your starting point. Let's break down what that means for your monthly budget in Bismarck. The city's cost of living index is 89.6, meaning it's about 10.4% cheaper than the U.S. average. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $848/month.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Cosmetologist Earning $37,172:

• Gross Monthly Income: $3,097
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~$580 (This is an estimate; actual taxes vary.)
• Net Monthly Income: ~$2,517
• Rent ($848): 33.7% of net income
• Utilities: ~$150 (Electricity, gas, internet)
• Groceries: ~$300
• Car Payment/Insurance: ~$400 (A car is a necessity in Bismarck)
• Health Insurance: ~$200 (if not provided by employer)
• Miscellaneous/Personal: ~$300
• Leftover for Savings/Debt: ~$319

Can They Afford to Buy a Home? It's challenging but possible long-term. The median home price in Bismarck is around $320,000. On a $37,172 salary, a 20% down payment is a significant hurdle ($64,000). However, many cosmetologists in Bismarck eventually buy homes, often after 5-10 years in the industry, when they've increased their income through commission, building a client book, or opening their own suite. It requires discipline and a dual-income household or significant side work (like mobile services) to become a reality early on.

Where the Jobs Are: Bismarck's Major Employers

The Bismarck-Mandan job market is a mix of large corporate salons, local boutiques, and a growing number of independent suites. Here are the key players:

1. Cost Cutters / Supercuts: These national chains are the most common entry points. They offer a steady schedule, benefits for full-time employees, and a built-in clientele. They're high-volume, which is great for building speed and experience. Locations are scattered throughout Bismarck, from the Kirkwood Mall area to the north side near the Scheels Arena.

2. The Color Bar & Salon: A well-established local salon on the north side of Bismarck (near the Hilbert's Restaurant). It's known for a more upscale experience and attracts a clientele willing to spend more on color and styling. They often look for stylists with 2+ years of experience and a portfolio.

3. Salon 906: Located in the historic downtown area, this is a trendy, modern salon that caters to a younger, style-conscious crowd. It's a good fit for cosmetologists interested in contemporary cuts and fashion color. They have a strong social media presence, which is key for client building.

4. The Spa at the Bismarck Hotel: For those interested in the spa and wellness side of cosmetology, this is a prime employer. It offers services like facials, waxing, and nail care in a luxury hotel setting. It's a more seasonal employer, with peaks during conferences and events at the hotel.

5. Independent Suites (e.g., in the Downtown Arts & Business District): A growing number of cosmetologists are "renting the chair" or building their own micro-salon in suites like those found in the Fraine Barracks development or the Downtown Business District. This path requires a strong personal brand and client base but offers the highest income potential.

6. Great Clips: Similar to Cost Cutters, Great Clips has a strong presence in the Bismarck-Mandan area, with locations on the west side (near the West Acres shopping center) and in Mandan. They are consistently hiring and offer a straightforward path for recent graduates.

Hiring Trends: There is a steady demand for cosmetologists who are comfortable with a full book of clients. The most significant trend is the move toward specialization. Stylists who can offer services like balayage, keratin treatments, or eyelash extensions are in higher demand and can command better rates. The rise of the independent suite is also notable, as it gives experienced cosmetologists more control over their earnings and schedule.

Getting Licensed in ND

To work legally as a cosmetologist in North Dakota, you must be licensed by the North Dakota Board of Cosmetology. The process is straightforward but requires dedication.

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Education: You must complete a minimum of 1,800 hours of training at a state-approved cosmetology school.
2. Examination: After graduation, you must pass both a written theory exam and a practical skills exam. The exams are administered by the National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC).
3. Application: Submit an application to the Board with proof of your education, exam scores, and the required fee.

Costs and Timeline:

• School Tuition: Ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 at schools like the Bismarck State College Cosmetology Program or Toni & Guy Hairdressing Academy in Fargo (a popular option for Bismarck residents).
• Exam Fees: Approximately $200 for both the written and practical exams.
• Licensing Fee: $50 for the initial license.
• Total Estimated Cost: $15,250 - $25,250 (excluding living expenses).
• Timeline: Full-time programs take about 12-15 months. Part-time programs can take up to 24 months.

Insider Tip: Bismarck State College's program is a popular, more affordable local option. Many students work part-time in salons as assistants while in school to gain experience and build connections.

Best Neighborhoods for Cosmetologists

Where you live in Bismarck will affect your commute, lifestyle, and budget. The city is car-dependent, so proximity to major employment hubs is key.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Estimated 1BR Rent	Best For
Downtown	Historic, walkable, artistic. Close to many salons (Salon 906). Easy commute to most jobs.	$900 - $1,100	Social, creative cosmetologists who want a vibrant urban feel.
North Bismarck	Family-friendly, newer developments. Close to major employers like The Color Bar and mall-area salons.	$850 - $950	Those seeking a quiet, suburban lifestyle with easy access to the city's north-side amenities.
South Bismarck	Established, affordable, close to the Kirkwood Mall and Bismarck State College.	$750 - $850	Budget-conscious professionals and students. Commute to most jobs is under 15 minutes.
Mandan (across the river)	Smaller town feel, lower cost of living. Home to several salons like Cost Cutters.	$700 - $800	Those who don't mind a 10-20 minute commute for more affordable rent and a quieter lifestyle.
Hilltop	A mix of older homes and apartments. Central location, good access to both downtown and the north side.	$800 - $900	Professionals who want a central location without the downtown price tag.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Bismarck, career growth is less about climbing a corporate ladder and more about building your personal brand and clientele.

Specialty Premiums: Cosmetologists who invest in advanced education can see a significant income boost. For example:

• Master Colorist: Can charge 20-30% more for services.
• Extension Specialist: Can set their own rates, often starting at $300+ per service.
• Lash/Brow Artist: Can build a high-margin, repeat clientele.

Advancement Paths:

1. Senior Stylist: Move from a commission-based role to a higher commission or rental chair within your current salon.
2. Salon Educator: Work with a brand like Redken or Matrix (which have distributors in the region) to teach classes and build your industry profile.
3. Salon Owner: This is the ultimate goal for many. Opens a suite or small salon, allowing for full control over services and pricing. The startup cost is significant, but the earning potential is the highest.

10-Year Outlook: The 8% growth rate indicates a stable future. The demand will be for cosmetologists who adapt to trends (like sustainable beauty, men's grooming, and wellness-focused services) and those who excel at client retention. The rise of social media as a marketing tool means that your online presence will be just as important as your skills at the chair.

The Verdict: Is Bismarck Right for You?

Bismarck offers a unique proposition for cosmetologists. It's not a high-energy, trend-driven market, but it provides stability, a low cost of living, and a community that values personal relationships. Your success here depends on your ability to build a loyal client base and possibly specialize over time.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $37,172 salary goes much further here.	Limited High-End Market: Fewer clients willing to pay premium prices compared to major coastal cities.
Stable Job Market: Consistent demand for skilled professionals.	Slower Career Growth: Advancement often requires entrepreneurship rather than corporate promotion.
Strong Community: Clients are loyal and refer friends and family.	Smaller Client Pool: You may need to work harder to fill your book initially.
Four-Season Lifestyle: Great for outdoor activities and a change of scenery.	Car Dependency: A reliable vehicle is a must for commuting and client calls.

Final Recommendation: Bismarck is an excellent choice for a cosmetologist who values stability, work-life balance, and a lower cost of living. It's ideal for those who are patient, enjoy building personal relationships, and are open to eventually owning their own business. If you're seeking a fast-paced, high-fashion environment with rapid income growth, you might look elsewhere. For a solid, sustainable career, Bismarck is a hidden gem.

FAQs

Q: Is the cost of living really that low?
A: Yes. The Cost of Living Index of 89.6 is accurate. Rent, groceries, and utilities are all noticeably cheaper than in national averages. The biggest expense will be your car, as public transit is limited.

Q: How competitive is the job market for new graduates?
A: It's moderately competitive. Chains like Great Clips and Cost Cutters are always looking for new talent, especially in the spring and fall. However, to get a job at a boutique salon like The Color Bar, you'll need a strong portfolio and possibly some experience. Networking during your schooling is crucial.

Q: Do I need to specialize right away?
A: Not necessarily, but it helps. In your first 1-2 years, focus on mastering the basics and building speed. After that, consider taking continuing education courses in color, texture, or nails to set yourself apart. Many salons will even pay for some of this training.

Q: What's the winter like for commuting?
A: Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often below zero. A reliable, all-wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended. Most salons have good parking, but you'll need to budget for winter tires and extra time for snow removal.

Q: Can I make more than the median salary of $37,172?
A: Absolutely. The median is just a baseline. Cosmetologists who build a full clientele, specialize in high-demand services, or rent a chair can earn $50,000 or more. Those who own a successful salon can significantly exceed that. Your income is directly tied to your reputation and business savvy.