Salaries in Mandan, ND

You might not expect a city of 24,000 in western North Dakota to be a hotspot for software developers, but in Mandan, they’re the top earners. The median household income here sits at a solid $75,966, yet the real story is how far that money goes. With a cost of living index of 89.6—about 10% below the national average—a six-figure tech salary here feels like you’re cheating the system.

That low COL isn’t just a line on a spreadsheet. Take a software developer’s $123,289 salary; adjusted for Mandan’s affordability, its real purchasing power is closer to $137,599. Compare that to a one-bedroom apartment that runs just $806 a month, and you see the math. For most middle-class workers, from accountants pulling $83,000 to electricians earning nearly $60,000, the city offers a genuine bargain. The average salary across all roles is $55,227, but its adjusted value jumps to $61,638. You’re not just earning; you’re building wealth faster than you would in most places.

Who’s thriving here? Beyond the surprising tech niche, the economy is anchored by healthcare, education, and skilled trades. The Bismarck-Mandan region is a major medical hub, which keeps nurses in high demand and well-paid. The public school system and energy sector also provide stable, union-backed jobs. With an unemployment rate of just 2.0%, it’s a worker’s market. You can feel the demand; businesses aren’t just hiring, they’re competing.

Here’s the honest catch: while your dollar stretches, wages aren’t exploding. The 30.6% of residents with a bachelor’s degree or higher often have to look to Bismarck for the highest-paying corporate roles. Mandan works beautifully for remote workers who can import a coastal salary, or for skilled tradespeople and professionals who don’t need a big city’s price tag. It’s less ideal for those chasing rapid career climbs in niche industries.

The data below breaks down exactly what you can expect to earn in Mandan’s key roles, showing you where the real opportunities—and the real bargains—lie.