Dickinson vs Minot: Optometrist Salary (2026)
Compare optometrist salaries between Dickinson, ND and Minot, ND. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dickinson, ND | Minot, ND |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $126,492 | $127,043▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $60.81 | $61.08▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,365 | $73,685▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $99,657 | $100,773▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $146,993 | $150,938▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $186,579▲ | $180,966 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 12▲ |
Verdict
Minot, ND offers better overall compensation for optometrists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Dickinson.
The salary gap between Dickinson and Minot is $551 (0.44%). Minot's median is -9.65% compared to the US national median of $140,612.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dickinson spans $113,214,Minot spans $107,281. Dickinson has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Minot ($138,090 effective) pays 0.44% more than Dickinson ($137,491 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dickinson if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($186,579)
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Minot if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($127,043/year)
- ✓Larger job market (12 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $138,090)
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, optometrist salaries in Dickinson grew 6.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 6.7% growth in Minot over the same period.
Dickinson, ND
$115,146 (2024) → $122,855 (2025)
Minot, ND
$115,648 (2024) → $123,391 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Dickinson, ND
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays optometrists more: Dickinson or Minot?
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Written by Aisha Patel, OD
Career Analyst
Aisha Patel has 10 years of experience in optometry. She specializes in pediatric vision care. Aisha works in a private practice setting.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 2.96% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Patel, OD, a licensed optometrist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov