Dental Hygienist in Dickinson, ND

The Salary Picture: Where Dickinson Stands

For a Dental Hygienist evaluating a move to Dickinson, the financial picture is solid but comes with important local context. The median salary here is $85,691/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $41.2/hour. It's crucial to understand how this compares both locally and nationally. The national average for the profession sits at $87,530/year, meaning Dickinson hygienists earn just $1,839 less on average than their counterparts across the United States—a remarkably small gap, especially when you factor in the region's lower cost of living.

Within Dickinson itself, there are roughly 50 jobs for Dental Hygienists in the metro area, a figure that reflects a stable but not booming market. The profession is projected to grow by 9% over the next decade, which is faster than the average for all occupations, ensuring steady demand.

To break down earning potential by experience level, consider the following estimated ranges. These are based on local job postings, industry reports, and adjusted for the Dickinson market.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Factors in Dickinson
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$72,000 - $78,000	Often starts in general practice. Limited specialty exposure.
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$82,000 - $88,000	Aligns closely with the $85,691 median. High demand for reliable hygienists.
Senior/Expert (8+ years)	$90,000 - $100,000+	Top earners manage complex cases, may supervise, or work in specialty clinics.

When comparing Dickinson to other North Dakota cities, the salary is competitive. Bismarck and Fargo, with larger populations and higher costs of living, offer slightly higher median salaries (often in the $88,000-$92,000 range). However, the key differentiator is the cost of living. In Fargo, a 1BR apartment averages $850-$950/month, while in Dickinson, it's $837/month. This means your take-home pay in Dickinson can stretch further.

Insider Tip: The $85,691 median is a robust starting point for negotiation. In Dickinson's tight-knit healthcare community, employers know what others are paying. Come prepared with your experience and any specialized certifications (like laser or local anesthesia certification) to push toward the higher end of your experience bracket.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's translate the $85,691 median salary into a realistic monthly budget for Dickinson. This is a practical look at your financial reality, not just a gross income figure.

Estimated Monthly Take-Home (after taxes):
For a single filer with no dependents (federal, state, and FICA taxes), your monthly take-home pay is approximately $5,200 - $5,400. This is a conservative estimate; your actual take-home will vary based on your tax situation and benefits contributions.

Here’s a sample monthly budget breakdown for a single person earning the median salary:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes for Dickinson
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$837	The city average. Can be higher in new developments.
Utilities	$200 - $250	Includes heat (critical in winter), electricity, water, and internet.
Car Payment & Insurance	$400 - $500	A car is essential in Dickinson. Insurance rates are moderate.
Groceries	$350 - $400	No sales tax on groceries in ND.
Health Insurance (if not fully covered)	$200 - $350	Varies by employer plan.
Misc. / Savings / Debt	$1,000+	This is your discretionary income for savings, retirement, entertainment, etc.
Total	~$3,000	Leaves a healthy surplus for savings and life expenses.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With a surplus of over $1,500/month after essential expenses (depending on car and insurance costs), a hygienist earning the median salary is in a strong position to save for a down payment. The median home price in Dickinson hovers around $250,000 - $275,000. With a 20% down payment ($50,000-$55,000), the monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would be roughly $1,400 - $1,600. This is well within the $1,500+ discretionary budget, making homeownership a very attainable goal for a mid-career dental hygienist in Dickinson.

Where the Jobs Are: Dickinson's Major Employers

Dickinson's dental job market is concentrated in a few key areas: general private practices, regional health systems, and public health. While the metro area only has 50 openings, the turnover is low, meaning openings are competitive but stable when they occur. Here are the primary employers and hiring trends.

1. Dickinson Dental Group: A large, multi-specialty practice that is often the largest single employer of hygienists in the city. They offer a fast-paced environment and the potential to work with multiple dentists. Hiring trends: They typically post openings for hygienists 1-2 times per year, often in late spring/early summer as they plan for the upcoming year.
2. St. Joseph's Hospital & Health Center (Part of Sanford Health): While the hospital itself may not have a large dental clinic, Sanford's network of primary care clinics often includes dental services or close partnerships. Sanford is a major regional health system and a stable employer. Hiring trends: They use a centralized application system. Openings can be less frequent but are posted on the Sanford Health careers page.
3. Bison Family Dental & other independent practices: Several well-established independent practices like Bison Family Dental, Dakota Dental, and Smiles Dental are key employers. These often provide a more personal, family-oriented work environment. Hiring trends: Hiring is often done through word-of-mouth or local networks. It's essential to check their websites directly and even call to inquire about future openings.
4. Community Health Partners (CHP): As a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), CHP provides care to underserved populations. They often have opening for hygienists who are passionate about public health. They may offer loan repayment programs. Hiring trends: Hiring is tied to grant funding, so openings can be cyclical. Check their website and Utah/Montana/North Dakota region boards.
5. North Dakota Department of Health (Public Health Division): The Southwest District Health Unit, based in Dickinson, occasionally hires hygienists for public health programs, school screenings, and education. These roles are competitive and highly mission-driven. Hiring trends: Very few openings, but they are posted on the state ND Jobs website.

Insider Tip: The most effective way to find a job in Dickinson is direct outreach. Go to the websites of the practices listed above. If there's no active posting, send a professional email with your resume to the office manager or dentist, expressing your interest in joining their team. The community is small, and a personalized approach is often more effective than waiting for a job board listing.

Getting Licensed in ND

North Dakota's licensing process is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The North Dakota State Board of Dental Examiners is the governing body.

Key Requirements:

1. Education: Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program (accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation). This is non-negotiable.
2. National Board Exam (NBDHE): You must pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination.
3. Clinical/Regional Exam: You must pass a regional clinical exam. North Dakota accepts the Western Regional Examining Board (WREB) or the Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS).
4. State Specifics: North Dakota requires a jurisprudence exam covering the state's dental practice act, which you can take online. There is also a requirement for CPR certification.
5. Application & Fees: Submit a complete application to the ND State Board of Dental Examiners. Total initial licensing fees (application, exam, license) generally run $200 - $400, not including exam fees which can be several hundred dollars each.

Timeline to Get Started:

• Now: Gather your transcripts and confirm your program is CODA-accredited.
• 2-3 Months: Apply for and take the NBDHE and your chosen regional clinical exam (WREB/CRDTS). Prep courses are available but not mandatory.
• 1 Month: Once you have passing scores, complete the jurisprudence exam and submit your full application packet to the ND Board.
• 2-4 Weeks: Processing time. Once approved, you'll receive your license number, and you can officially start applying for jobs.

Insider Tip: The most time-consuming part is often scheduling the clinical exam. Book your WREB or CRDTS date as soon as you graduate, as slots can fill up. Starting the application process in North Dakota before you move can help you land a job faster upon arrival.

Best Neighborhoods for Dental Hygienists

Dickinson is a compact city where most neighborhoods offer a reasonable commute. However, lifestyle and rent vary. Here are the top areas to consider.

1. East Dickinson: This is the most popular area for young professionals and families. It features newer developments, good schools, and easy access to the Dickinson State University campus and the Dickinson International Airport. The commute to most dental offices (which are on the east side of town) is under 10 minutes. Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100 for a 1BR in a modern complex.
2. Central Dickinson: The heart of the city, offering historic charm, walkable streets, and proximity to downtown restaurants and shops. You'll find a mix of older apartments and renovated homes. Commute is minimal. Rent Estimate: $750 - $950 for a 1BR in an older building.
3. Southwest Dickinson: A quieter, more residential area with established neighborhoods and larger lot sizes. It's popular with families and those seeking more space. Commute is still very manageable, typically 5-15 minutes to most workplaces. Rent Estimate: $800 - $1,000 for a 1BR.
4. Near the University (Dickinson State): Ideal if you're considering further education (e.g., a bachelor's degree in public health or education). The area has affordable housing and a lively student atmosphere. Commute is central. Rent Estimate: $700 - $900 for a 1BR or shared housing.

Insider Tip: The rental market in Dickinson is tight, especially for quality properties. Start your search 60-90 days before your move. Use local Facebook groups like "Dickinson ND Rentals" and "Dickinson, ND Buy/Sell/Trade" as they often have listings that never make it to Zillow or Apartments.com.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A career as a dental hygienist in Dickinson isn't a dead end; it's a platform with multiple growth paths. Given the 9% 10-year job growth, stability is assured, but advancement requires proactive effort.

Specialty Premiums and Advancement Paths:

• Public Health: Specializing in community health or school programs can lead to roles with the ND Department of Health or Community Health Partners. While base salary may be similar, benefits and mission-driven work are a draw.
• Education: Becoming a clinical instructor at a dental hygiene program (though Dickinson doesn't have one, opportunities exist in nearby Bismarck or via online teaching) offers a new career track.
• Private Practice Management: Moving into an office manager role within a dental practice, leveraging your clinical knowledge and understanding of patient care and scheduling.
• Teledentistry: An emerging field, especially valuable in rural areas. Hygienists can perform screenings and patient education remotely under dentist supervision. This is a growing niche in North Dakota.
• Advanced Certifications: Pursuing certifications in local anesthesia, nitrous oxide monitoring, or laser dentistry can increase your value to employers and allow you to perform more duties, justifying a higher salary.

10-Year Outlook:
The outlook is positive. With an aging population and increased focus on preventative care, demand will remain steady. The 9% growth rate means new jobs will be created. For a hygienist starting in Dickinson today, the path to a $90,000+ salary within 5-7 years is clear through experience, specialization, and taking on additional responsibilities. Long-term, the key is to avoid stagnation. Engage with professional organizations like the North Dakota Dental Hygienists' Association (NDDHA) for networking and continuing education.

The Verdict: Is Dickinson Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $85,691 salary goes much further than in larger cities.	Limited Job Market: Only 50 jobs in the metro area means fewer openings and less competition for employers.
Stable Job Growth: 9% growth over 10 years provides career security.	Isolation: Dickinson is remote. The nearest major city (Bismarck) is a 2-hour drive. Travel can be costly.
Strong Community: Tight-knit professional and social networks. Easy to build relationships.	Harsh Winters: Long, cold, and snowy winters can be a significant lifestyle adjustment.
Path to Homeownership: Very attainable with the local salary and housing costs.	Limited Specialties: Most practices are general dentistry. Fewer opportunities for niche specialties.
Competitive Salary vs. COL: Salary is near the national average in a much cheaper place to live.	Cultural & Entertainment Options: More limited than a large metropolitan area.

Final Recommendation:
Dickinson is an excellent choice for dental hygienists who prioritize financial stability, homeownership, and a close-knit community over the amenities of a large city. It's ideal for mid-career professionals looking to build equity and establish a stable life, or for new graduates who want to pay down student debt quickly in a low-cost environment. It may not be the best fit for those who crave constant cultural events, diverse cuisine, or easy access to major airports and travel hubs.

FAQs

1. What is the job market really like for a new hygienist in Dickinson?
It's competitive but promising. With only 50 jobs, positions don't open up daily. However, the 9% growth rate means openings do occur. New grads should be prepared to apply broadly, consider part-time or temporary roles to get their foot in the door, and leverage any local connections from their clinical rotations.

2. How important is it to have local anesthesia or nitrous oxide certification in ND?
While not mandatory for licensure, these certifications are highly valued by employers in Dickinson. They allow you to perform more procedures, making you a more flexible and valuable team member. If you don't have them, it's worth considering getting certified once you're licensed, as it can lead to salary increases.

3. Is a car absolutely necessary to work as a hygienist in Dickinson?
Yes. Public transportation is extremely limited. Winter weather can be severe, and dental offices are spread out. Reliable, winter-ready transportation is essential for getting to work safely and on time. Factor in $400-$500/month for a car payment and insurance in your budget.

4. How does the cost of living affect my ability to save for retirement?
Positively. With a lower cost of living, you can allocate a higher percentage of your income to retirement savings. Many local employers offer 401(k) plans, often with a match. Saving 10-15% of your $85,691 salary is very feasible in Dickinson, which is a stronger retirement savings rate than many hygienists in high-cost-of-living areas can achieve.

5. Are there opportunities for continuing education (CE) in Dickinson?
Yes, but you'll need to be proactive. The North Dakota Dental Association (NDDA) and NDDHA hold annual meetings, often in Bismarck or Fargo. Many CE courses are now offered online. Local dental offices also sometimes host lunch-and-learns. For hands-on courses, you may need to travel to Bismarck (2 hours) or Minneapolis (6 hours), so budget for that.

Data Sources: North Dakota State Board of Dental Examiners, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), North Dakota Department of Commerce, local job postings, and real estate market data for Dickinson, ND.