Bismarck, N.D. (AP) Southwestern North Dakota's Slope County is at the bottom when it comes to population. But a new report says it tops the state's counties when it comes to average annual wages.

The summer report from Job Service North Dakota says Slope ranked first in the state last year with an average annual wage of $53,528. Oliver County, in coal country, was second with $50,403.

The report lists Slope County's average employment at 679.

Officials say the number comes from employer reports and does not does not include many farmers who are self-employed, or students or elected officials.

Slope County's population is listed on its Web site at around 770 people.

County Auditor Lorrie Buzalsky says the Marmarth area has had oil development for a number of years.

Marmarth Mayor Patti Perry, who's also the county's economic development director, says one oil rig worker started out of high school, making $24,000 a year.

She says young people are staying in the area because they can get a decent wage.

The statewide average annual wage last year was listed at $35,075, up from $33,086 the previous year.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 08-08-09 1745CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list