Financial Analyst in Jamestown, ND

The Salary Picture: Where Jamestown Stands

As a local, I’ll tell you straight up: Jamestown isn’t a hotspot for finance, but it’s a stable, affordable place to build a career if you’re pragmatic. The job market is small but steady, anchored by healthcare, agriculture, and local government. Let’s break down the numbers.

The median salary for a Financial Analyst in Jamestown is $96,930/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $46.6/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $99,010/year, which makes sense given our lower cost of living. There are only about 31 financial analyst jobs in the metro area, so competition isn’t fierce, but opportunities are limited. The 10-year job growth is projected at 9%, which is modest but positive, keeping pace with national trends in financial services.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s how salaries break down by experience level in Jamestown. Note that these are estimates based on local job postings and industry standards, as Jamestown’s small market doesn’t always have granular public data.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	$65,000 - $80,000	Data entry, basic reporting, assisting senior analysts
Mid-Level	$80,000 - $100,000	Financial modeling, budget analysis, supporting management decisions
Senior-Level	$100,000 - $120,000	Leading projects, strategic planning, mentoring junior staff
Expert/Lead	$120,000+	Departmental leadership, high-level forecasting, board presentations

Compared to other North Dakota cities, Jamestown sits in a middle tier. Fargo, the state’s financial hub, offers higher salaries (median around $102,000) but also a higher cost of living. Bismarck, the capital, is similar to Jamestown but with more government-related finance roles. Grand Forks has a larger university and healthcare footprint, offering slightly more opportunities. In short, Jamestown provides a solid salary relative to its low living costs, but it’s not where you chase the highest paychecks.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about your monthly budget. We’ll use the median salary of $96,930/year as our baseline. For simplicity, we’ll estimate taxes at a combined ~28% (federal, state, FICA; North Dakota has a flat income tax rate of 1.10-2.50% for most brackets). This yields a monthly take-home pay of approximately $5,800.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Estimated):

• Take-Home Pay: $5,800
• Rent (1BR Average): -$837
• Utilities (Electric, Heat, Water, Internet): -$200
• Groceries: -$400
• Transportation (Car Payment/Insurance/Gas): -$450
• Health Insurance (Employer Share): -$200
• Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Clothing, etc.): -$500
• Remaining/Savings: $3,213

This leaves you with a very healthy cushion for savings, student loans, or investments. The key here is the rent—$837/month for a 1BR is incredibly affordable compared to national averages. This means even at the entry-level salary range of $65k-$80k, you can live comfortably.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Jamestown is around $200,000. A 20% down payment is $40,000. With the savings potential shown above, a mid-level analyst could realistically save for a down payment in 1-2 years. Monthly mortgage payments (including taxes and insurance) would likely be comparable to or less than rent, making homeownership a very attainable goal here.

Where the Jobs Are: Jamestown's Major Employers

Jamestown’s financial analyst roles are concentrated in a few key sectors. You won’t find a Wall Street satellite office here, but you’ll find stable, community-focused employers. Here are the major players:

1. Sanford Health Jamestown: The largest employer in the region. Sanford constantly needs financial analysts to manage budgets for its hospital and specialty clinics. They handle everything from operational budgeting for the ER to analyzing the cost-effectiveness of new medical equipment. Hiring trends are steady due to expansion in senior care and specialty services.
2. Jamestown Regional Medical Center (JRMC): The other major healthcare player. Similar to Sanford, JRMC’s finance team is critical for managing reimbursements, operational costs, and capital projects. They often look for analysts with healthcare-specific knowledge (e.g., understanding Medicare/Medicaid).
3. City of Jamestown & Stutsman County: Government finance is a major niche here. The city and county governments employ analysts for public fund management, grant administration, and long-term fiscal planning. These jobs are stable, come with great benefits, and are less susceptible to market swings. Check the city’s website for openings; they often post internally first.
4. First International Bank & Trust (FIBT): One of the larger regional banks operating in Jamestown. Their analysts work on commercial lending, risk assessment, and portfolio management. While the local office is small, it’s a gateway to a broader regional network.
5. Jamestown College (University of Jamestown): The college’s finance and administrative departments hire analysts for endowment management, budgeting for academic departments, and financial aid analysis. It’s a great environment if you value stability and a collegial atmosphere.
6. Jamestown Agricultural Services Co-op: Reflecting the region’s economic backbone, ag co-ops employ analysts for commodity pricing, grain marketing analysis, and farm financial management. This is a niche that requires some sector-specific knowledge but can be very rewarding.

Insider Tip: Networking here is informal but crucial. Many jobs aren’t publicly posted. Join the Jamestown Area Chamber of Commerce and attend their monthly mixers. The finance community is small; a good reputation spreads fast.

Getting Licensed in ND

For most Financial Analyst roles in Jamestown, a state-specific license isn’t required unless you’re dealing directly with securities (e.g., as an investment advisor). The primary credential sought is a CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) or a CPA (Certified Public Accountant), both of which are nationally recognized.

However, if you’re looking into investment advisor representative (IAR) roles, you’d need to register with the North Dakota Securities Department. Here’s the breakdown:

• Requirements: Pass the Series 65 exam (or Series 7 + 66). You must also be sponsored by a registered firm. There’s no separate state exam for ND; they follow the NASAA (North American Securities Administrators Association) model.
• Costs: The Series 65 exam fee is ~$187. Study materials (Kaplan, PassPerfect) cost $300-$800. If you need a firm to sponsor you, expect a background check and possibly a probationary period.
• Timeline: If you study full-time, you can be ready for the exam in 2-3 months. Once you pass, the registration process with your firm and the state can take another 1-2 months. In total, plan for 4-6 months to be fully licensed.

For non-licensed analyst roles, your best move is to pursue the CFA. It’s highly respected, especially in corporate finance and investment analysis. The exams are three levels and can take 2-4 years to complete, but they significantly boost your credibility and earning potential.

Best Neighborhoods for Financial Analysts

Jamestown’s neighborhoods are distinct, and your choice will affect your commute and lifestyle. Here’s a local’s guide:

1. North Hill: This is the heart of the business district. Most offices, including the city/county buildings and some bank branches, are here. If you want a 5-minute walk to work, this is it. It’s a mix of older, well-maintained homes and some apartments. Rent Estimate (1BR): $750 - $900/month.
2. University Area: Close to the University of Jamestown campus. It’s quiet, with a lot of student rentals, but also home to faculty and young professionals. You get a short commute to the college or downtown. Rent Estimate (1BR): $700 - $850/month.
3. South Jamestown: More residential and family-oriented. You’ll find newer developments and single-family homes. A car is essential here, but commutes are still under 15 minutes to anywhere in town. Rent Estimate (1BR): $800 - $950/month (fewer rentals, more homeowners).
4. East Hill: A quiet, established neighborhood with larger lots and older homes. It’s popular with professionals who want a bit more space. The commute to downtown is about 10 minutes. Rent Estimate (1BR): $750 - $900/month.
5. West End: This area is near the Jamestown Mall and retail corridors. It’s convenient for shopping and dining, with easy highway access. A practical choice for those who value convenience. Rent Estimate (1BR): $700 - $850/month.

Commute Reality: Jamestown’s size means there’s no bad commute. Traffic is non-existent. The longest drive from any neighborhood to the main employer hubs (Sanford, JRMC, downtown) is 10-12 minutes max.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In Jamestown, career growth is more about depth and specialization than rapid vertical climbs. You won’t find six-figure jumps every two years, but you can build a secure, respected career.

• Specialty Premiums: The highest premiums are in healthcare finance (due to the complexity of reimbursements) and agricultural finance. An analyst with a CPA or CFA who understands healthcare operational finance can command a salary at the high end of the mid-level range ($100k+).
• Advancement Paths: The typical path is from an entry-level analyst (e.g., at a co-op or small firm) to a senior analyst at a major employer like Sanford. From there, you could move into Finance Manager or Controller roles, often at the same company. The next step is Director of Finance, which is competitive but achievable with 10-15 years of experience. Many also leverage their experience to start a local consulting practice for small businesses.
• 10-Year Outlook: With 9% job growth, the market will expand slowly. The biggest opportunities will come from retirements in the existing workforce (the average age in Jamestown is higher) and the steady needs of the healthcare sector. The rise of remote work is a double-edged sword: it allows you to apply for remote national roles, but local employers are also becoming more open to hiring remote analysts for their teams.

Insider Tip: To advance, get involved in the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Society North Dakota. While based in Fargo, they have virtual events and local networking. It’s a key way to signal your seriousness and connect with finance professionals across the state.

The Verdict: Is Jamestown Right for You?

Jamestown is a fantastic choice for financial analysts who prioritize affordability, stability, and a slower pace of life. It’s not for those seeking a high-octane, cutthroat finance career. It’s for analysts who want to buy a home young, save aggressively, and be a big fish in a small, friendly pond.

Pros	Cons
Extremely low cost of living. Your salary goes far.	Very limited job market. Only 31 jobs. You can’t be picky.
Short, stress-free commutes. (5-15 minutes)	Limited networking & professional events.
Strong, stable employers in healthcare and government.	9% growth is modest. Career advancement can be slow.
Outdoor recreation (James River, Lakes, hunting) is top-tier.	Social scene is quiet. Fewer cultural/diverse activities.
Tight-knit community where you’re known as a person, not a number.	Winters are harsh. Be prepared for snow and cold.

Final Recommendation: If you’re an early-career analyst who wants to build a financial foundation without crushing debt, Jamestown is an exceptional choice. If you’re mid-career and seeking a change of pace for family or lifestyle, it’s also a strong contender. It’s not recommended for those whose primary goal is to reach the top 1% of finance salaries within a decade. For the right person, Jamestown offers a rare blend of professional stability and personal financial freedom.

FAQs

Q: How competitive is the job market for Financial Analysts in Jamestown?
A: Not very. With only 31 jobs, it’s a small pool. However, the applicant pool is also small. If you have a solid resume (especially with a CFA or CPA), you stand out quickly. Networking is more important here than in a large city.

Q: What’s the healthcare benefits situation like?
A: Excellent. The major employers (Sanford, JRMC, city/county) offer comprehensive health insurance with low premiums and good coverage. This is a major perk, as it reduces your monthly out-of-pocket costs significantly.

Q: Can I work remotely for a company outside Jamestown?
A: Yes, and it’s increasingly common. The city’s internet infrastructure is adequate for remote work. Having a Jamestown salary while living in a place with $837/month rent is a powerful financial strategy. Just be aware that local employers may value in-person collaboration.

Q: What’s the social scene like for a young professional?
A: It’s what you make it. There are a few good bars, restaurants (try the O’Rourke’s for a classic pub feel), and community events (like the Buffalo City Christmas Parade). The University of Jamestown brings some youthful energy. You’ll likely need to cultivate hobbies (hunting, fishing, hiking) and be proactive about socializing.

Q: How does the weather impact the job?
A: It doesn’t, job-wise. But it impacts lifestyle. Winters are long, cold, and snowy (Nov-March). You’ll need a reliable car with all-wheel drive and a winter survival kit. Summers are beautiful and mild, perfect for outdoor activities. The weather is a major factor in whether you’ll be happy here long-term.