Web Developer in Williston, ND

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Web Developers considering a move to Williston, ND.

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The Salary Picture: Where Williston Stands

Williston’s tech scene is uniquely shaped by the energy sector and local business needs. While the city isn’t a traditional tech hub, the demand for web developers is steady, driven by companies needing to modernize their online presence and internal systems. The median salary here is $90,802/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $43.65/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $92,750/year, but the lower cost of living makes it a financially attractive proposition.

When you look at the broader North Dakota landscape, Williston holds its own. Fargo, the state’s tech and education hub, offers slightly higher salaries but also a higher cost of living. Bismarck, the state capital, has a robust state-government and healthcare tech sector with comparable pay. Williston’s advantage isn’t in raw salary numbers but in the purchasing power they provide, especially with the local housing market.

Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect based on experience level:

Experience Level	Typical Years of Experience	Salary Range (Williston)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$65,000 - $78,000	Front-end development, content management systems (CMS), basic bug fixes.
Mid-Level	3-5 years	$78,000 - $95,000	Full-stack development, database management, project lead on smaller projects.
Senior-Level	5-10 years	$95,000 - $115,000	Architecture decisions, mentoring junior developers, complex system integration.
Expert/Lead	10+ years	$115,000+	Technical direction, managing dev teams, liaison between business and tech.

Insider Tip: The 10-year job growth for the broader "Software Developers" category (which includes web developers) in the Williston metro is 16%. This is a healthy rate, indicating that the local economy is creating new tech roles, not just replacing turnover. The total number of jobs in the metro is currently listed at 55, which reflects a small but tight-knit community where your reputation can significantly impact your career trajectory.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Living in Williston means your paycheck goes much further. Let's break down a monthly budget for a web developer earning the median salary of $90,802/year.

Assumptions:

• Gross Monthly Income: $90,802 / 12 = $7,567
• Estimated Taxes: ~25% (Federal, FICA, State) = $1,892 (This is a rough estimate; actual rates vary.)
• Take-Home Pay (Monthly): ~$5,675
• Average 1BR Rent: $837/month

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Housing (1BR Rent)	$837	The city average. Varies by neighborhood.
Utilities	$180	Includes electricity, gas, internet, water. North Dakota winters impact heating costs.
Groceries	$350	Slightly higher than national average due to logistics and winter weather.
Transportation	$300	Likely a car payment and insurance. Public transit is limited; walking/biking is seasonal.
Healthcare	$250	Varies by employer plan.
Miscellaneous	$500	Entertainment, dining, savings, personal spending.
Total Expenses	$2,417
Remaining for Savings/Debt	~$3,258	After taxes and all listed expenses.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Williams County is around $250,000-$300,000. With the disposable income above, a standard 20% down payment ($50,000-$60,000) is achievable within a few years of saving. The monthly mortgage payment on a $250,000 home would be comparable to renting a larger space. The Cost of Living Index of 93.0 (where the US average is 100) means your money is worth about 7% more here than the national average.

Where the Jobs Are: Williston's Major Employers

Williston's web development jobs aren't typically at Silicon Valley-style startups. They are embedded in established local industries. Hiring is often steady but can be influenced by oil and gas market cycles, as those companies are major local clients for agencies and in-house teams.

1. Williams County Government & School Districts: The county and local school systems (like Williston Public School District #1) have a constant need for web developers to maintain public-facing sites, portals for parents/students, and internal applications. These are stable, benefit-heavy government jobs.

2. Energy Companies (and their Service Providers): This is the biggest driver. Companies like Hess Corporation (major operator in the Bakken) and Slawson Exploration have a local presence. While their core tech teams might be in larger cities, their local marketing and operations teams often need dedicated web support for regional sites, contractor portals, and vendor management systems. Third-party IT service providers that contract to the energy sector are also a key source of employment.

3. Williston State College (WSC): WSC needs developers for its main website, online learning portals (like Canvas or Moodle integrations), and departmental sites. These roles often involve working with faculty and staff, requiring good communication skills.

4. Major Retail & Auto Groups: Large local businesses like KKE Architects (a major regional employer) or large auto dealership groups (e.g., Williston Motors) need web developers to manage their e-commerce platforms, inventory listings, and customer-facing sites. These roles often blend traditional marketing with technical development.

5. Local Marketing & IT Agencies: Firms like West River Media or Dakota Digital (check for local offices) serve a portfolio of local businesses. Working for an agency here means exposure to a wide variety of projects—from law firm sites to oilfield equipment suppliers. It's a fast way to build a diverse portfolio.

Hiring Trend Insight: The trend is toward "hybrid" developers. Companies are less often looking for a pure front-end or back-end specialist. They want someone who can handle a WordPress site, tweak a SQL database, and ensure the site works on a tablet in the field. Knowledge of security best practices is also highly valued, especially for companies handling sensitive data.

Getting Licensed in ND

North Dakota does not have a state-specific license or certification requirement for web developers. The field is based on skill, portfolio, and experience. However, there are official pathways for related IT credentials that can boost your resume.

• State-Specific Requirements: No license is needed. Your portfolio and a good interview are your primary "certifications."
• Official State Pathway: The North Dakota Department of Commerce and the North Dakota State College of Technology (NDSCS) offer IT and networking programs. While not a web dev license, completing a relevant program from an in-state institution can help with networking and job placement in the local market.
• Costs & Timeline: The cost is entirely for education or self-study. A 2-year associate's degree in web development or computer science from Williston State College would cost approximately $10,000-$15,000 for in-state tuition. Self-study via online platforms (like Coursera or Codecademy) can be done for under $1,000 in a matter of months.
• Insider Tip: While no license is required, getting a CompTIA A+ or Network+ certification can be a differentiator in Williston. Many employers are small-to-midsize businesses that value IT generalists who can also handle basic networking and hardware troubleshooting.

Best Neighborhoods for Web Developers

Williston is a city where your commute is rarely an issue. Traffic is minimal, but neighborhood choice affects lifestyle, especially during the harsh winters.

1. Southside (or South Williston): This is the primary residential and commercial area. It's where you'll find most of the restaurants, retail, and single-family homes. A great choice for a balanced lifestyle.

   • Commute: 5-15 minutes to anywhere in town.
   • Rent (1BR): $750 - $950.
   • Vibe: Family-friendly, established, convenient.

2. Eastside: A mix of older, established homes and new developments. Closer to the industrial and energy company offices on the city's eastern edge.

   • Commute: 5-15 minutes.
   • Rent (1BR): $700 - $900.
   • Vibe: Quieter, more traditional residential feel.

3. Northwest (City Center): The heart of downtown Williston. You'll find historic buildings, local shops, and a growing number of apartments and lofts. Best for those who want to walk to coffee shops and restaurants.

   • Commute: 5-10 minutes.
   • Rent (1BR): $800 - $1,100 (premium for location).
   • Vibe: Walkable, urban, historic.

4. Newer Developments (Westside, near the Airport): These areas feature modern apartment complexes and new housing subdivisions. They offer modern amenities but can feel a bit isolated from the core of town.

   • Commute: 10-20 minutes.
   • Rent (1BR): $850 - $1,000.
   • Vibe: Modern, spacious, car-dependent.

Winter Commute Tip: In January, when temperatures drop to -20°F and snow piles up, a short commute is a luxury. The Southside and Eastside are often the most practical choices for reliable, quick travel to the major employers.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In a small market like Williston, career growth isn't about climbing a corporate ladder at one company. It's about strategic skill acquisition and building a reputation.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • E-commerce & Payment Integration: With local businesses (agriculture equipment, retail) moving online, developers who can secure and integrate payment gateways (Stripe, Square) can command a 10-15% premium.
  • Mobile-First Development: Given the field-based nature of local industries (energy, agriculture), developers who excel at responsive, mobile-friendly design are in high demand.
  • Cybersecurity Basics: As mentioned, knowledge of web security (SSL, data encryption, OWASP top 10) is a huge plus for any local business handling customer data.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Agency to In-House: Start at an agency to build a portfolio, then move in-house at a larger energy company or retail group for stability and higher pay.
  2. Developer to Manager: The path to a senior or lead role often involves taking on project management duties and mentoring interns from local colleges.
  3. Freelancing: Given the small market, a successful freelance career is built on deep local relationships. You'll likely be the go-to developer for several small businesses.

• 10-Year Outlook: The 16% job growth signal is positive. The outlook is stable with potential for growth tied to the region's economic health. As local businesses continue to digitalize, the need for skilled developers will persist. However, be aware that a downturn in the energy sector can temporarily cool hiring, though it rarely eliminates the need for essential web maintenance.

The Verdict: Is Williston Right for You?

Pros	Cons
High Purchasing Power: Your salary goes much further than in tech hubs.	Limited Networking: Fewer tech meetups, conferences, and professional events.
Short Commutes: Minimal traffic means more personal time.	Niche Job Market: Fewer employers means less choice if you want to switch jobs.
Growing Demand: A 16% growth rate shows a healthy, evolving market.	Weather: Harsh, long winters can be a lifestyle shock for newcomers.
Community Impact: Your work directly supports local businesses and institutions.	Remote Work Competition: Some local roles may compete with remote positions from national companies.
Low Barrier to Entry: No state license required; portfolio is key.	Limited Specialization: You may not find cutting-edge work in AI/VR.

Final Recommendation:
Williston is an excellent choice for web developers who value lifestyle, financial stability, and community impact over the buzz of a major tech scene. It's ideal for developers who are early in their careers and want to build a strong, versatile portfolio quickly, or for mid-to-senior developers looking for a lower cost of living without sacrificing a professional technical role. If you prefer a collaborative, close-knit professional environment and don't mind the winters, Williston offers a compelling and financially sound career path.

FAQs

1. Do I need a car in Williston?
Yes, absolutely. While some areas are walkable, the city is spread out, and public transportation is limited. A reliable vehicle is a necessity, especially in the winter.

2. How competitive is the job market for web developers?
It's a small, competitive market. With only 55 jobs in the metro, openings can be infrequent. The key is to have a standout portfolio and strong local references. Networking through local business events (like the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce) is crucial.

3. Can I work remotely for a company outside Williston?
Yes, this is a growing option. Many local developers work remotely for national companies, taking advantage of Williston's low cost of living. However, ensure you have a reliable, high-speed internet connection, as this is critical for remote work.

4. What is the best way to find a job here?
Beyond online job boards, your best bet is direct outreach. Identify the major local employers listed above, visit their websites' "Careers" pages, and connect with IT managers or recruiters on LinkedIn. Local Facebook groups for "Williston Jobs" can also be a useful resource.

5. How does the cost of living affect my salary negotiation?
Use the Cost of Living Index (93.0) as a data point. While the salary might be slightly below the national average, your effective purchasing power is higher. Focus on the value you bring to a local business during negotiations, and be prepared to discuss the total compensation package, which often includes strong healthcare and retirement benefits from large local employers.

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Data Sources: Salary data and job growth figures are based on provided metrics, reflecting the specific Williston, ND metro area. National averages are from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS). Rent and cost of living data are based on local market reports from platforms like Zillow and the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). This guide is intended for informational purposes; individual circumstances will vary.