Bismarck vs Minot: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Bismarck, ND and Minot, ND. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bismarck, ND | Minot, ND |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $95,842▲ | $95,491 |
| Hourly Rate | $46.08▲ | $45.91 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $55,988▲ | $55,386 |
| 25th Percentile | $71,680▲ | $68,754 |
| 75th Percentile | $122,679▲ | $122,229 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $148,556▲ | $148,011 |
| Total Employed | 11 | 12▲ |
Verdict
Bismarck, ND offers better overall compensation for clinical and counseling psychologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Minot.
The salary gap between Bismarck and Minot is $351 (0.37%). Bismarck's median is -9.32% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bismarck spans $92,568,Minot spans $92,625. Minot has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced clinical and counseling psychologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Bismarck ($104,176 effective) pays 0.37% more than Minot ($103,795 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 ($95,842/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($148,556)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,176)
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Minot if…
- ✓Larger job market (12 employed)
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Bismarck grew -12.5% from 2021 to 2025, compared to -4.9% growth in Minot over the same period.
Bismarck, ND
$104,280 (2021) → $91,209 (2025)
Minot, ND
$95,563 (2024) → $90,875 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bismarck, ND
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Bismarck or Minot?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bismarck and Minot?
Should I relocate from Bismarck to Minot as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
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Written by Maria Gonzalez, PhD, LPC
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in clinical psychology. She specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy. Maria works at a mental health clinic in Chicago.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.08% 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 Maria Gonzalez, PhD, LPC, a licensed clinical and counseling psychologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov