Bismarck vs Fargo: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Bismarck, ND and Fargo, ND. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bismarck, ND | Fargo, ND |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $580,797▲ | $420,389 |
| Hourly Rate | $279.23▲ | $202.11 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $221,771 | $243,826▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $580,797▲ | $302,679 |
| 75th Percentile | $833,049▲ | $505,806 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $833,417▲ | $594,608 |
| Total Employed | 30 | 31▲ |
Verdict
Bismarck, ND offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Fargo.
The salary gap between Bismarck and Fargo is $160,408 (38.16%). Bismarck's median is +31.43% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bismarck spans $611,646,Fargo spans $350,782. Bismarck 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, Bismarck ($638,070 effective) pays 39.64% more than Fargo ($456,945 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bismarck if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($580,797/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($833,417)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $638,070)
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Fargo if…
- ✓Larger job market (31 employed)
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Bismarck grew 67.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 15.3% growth in Fargo over the same period.
Bismarck, ND
$330,993 (2024) → $553,140 (2025)
Fargo, ND
$347,230 (2024) → $400,370 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bismarck, ND
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Dr. Maria Chen, MD
Career Analyst
Dr. Chen has 10 years of experience in diagnostic radiology. She specializes in imaging techniques for oncology. She works at a regional medical center.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.00% 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 Dr. Maria Chen, MD, a licensed radiologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov