Salaries in Jamestown, ND

Here’s a secret about Jamestown that the data doesn’t immediately scream: you can make a six-figure salary here as a software developer. I know, right? It’s not exactly the first place you’d picture a tech salary, but the numbers don’t lie.

And that $124,587 goes a lot further than you’d think. With a cost of living index of 93.0, you’re effectively earning a purchasing power of $133,965. Compare that to the median household income of $54,809, and you see a stark divide. The average salary across all roles is $55,810, which adjusts to $60,010 in real terms. For a one-bedroom apartment renting for $837 a month, that’s a decent, if not luxurious, life.

So who actually thrives here? It’s a mix. Beyond the standout software developers, Jamestown’s economy is anchored by healthcare, education, and skilled trades. You’ll find solid wages for accountants, registered nurses, and electricians. The city’s low 2.0% unemployment rate and the presence of institutions like Jamestown College and the local hospital system mean there’s steady demand for these roles. It’s a practical, working town.

My honest take? It’s a fantastic deal if you’re in one of those top-paying fields. But with only 22.1% of the population holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, the path to those higher wages isn’t as crowded. The catch is that wages for many other jobs are just keeping pace, not racing ahead. It works best for those with in-demand skills or a desire for a quiet life without big-city financial pressure.

The data below breaks it all down, from top occupations to the real story behind the paychecks.