Top 15 Cities to Move to in North Dakota

Almost perfectly rectangular and sharing a border with Canada, North Dakota is small yet formidable.

If you were to speculate which American state possesses the second-most robust economy, it is unlikely that North Dakota would come to mind. Nonetheless, owing to an oil drilling surge in 2016, North Dakota’s economy experienced remarkable growth and appears poised to maintain its momentum. The state showcases impressively low unemployment rates, securing the position of having the lowest unemployment rates among all fifty states.

The smallest city in North Dakota, Maza, accommodates merely five permanent residents. Interestingly, there are no towns or villages in the state, as every settlement, irrespective of size, is classified as a city. Surprisingly, Maza does not appear in our top 15!

We have compiled a list of the 15 premier places to reside in North Dakota by engaging with locals, reviewing rankings, and evaluating the infrastructure, enabling you to focus on your decision regarding where to invest in your next home.

Here are the best places to live in North Dakota:

1. Fargo

Source: David Harmantas / shutterstock

Fargo, the setting for the acclaimed television series, experiences winter temperatures as frigid as those depicted on the show.

With a population exceeding one hundred thousand, this city successfully preserves its small-town charm while offering a wealth of amenities and facilities characteristic of a major city. As perhaps expected of the Midwest, the residents of Fargo are notably amicable and hospitable. If you are as open and engaging as they are, you will likely find ample employment opportunities in the area.

However, the principal downside to Fargo is its crime rate. Although it remains considerably lower than the national average, it is still notably higher compared to places like Burlington in Vermont, which may deter some individuals from considering relocation here.

Entertainment & Activities

Some premier attractions in Fargo include:

• Red River Zoo
• Fargo Air Museum
• Plains Art Museum
• West Acres Mall
• Fargodome
• Roger Maris Museum
• North Dakota State University

2. West Fargo

Source: carriescarr / Flickr

Fargo and West Fargo; the focus is indeed on Fargo within the state of North Dakota! In terms of crime statistics, West Fargo is significantly safer than its counterpart.

Regarding education, there is a slight variance between the two cities. Schooling in Fargo rates slightly higher at B+, while West Fargo receives a grade of B. While this may appear marginal, it could be a decisive factor for families.

This neighborhood boasts a prime location close to Highway 94. Residents in West Fargo enjoy quicker access to the Highway compared to those in Fargo, which is particularly advantageous during peak commuting hours.

The median rental prices in Fargo and West Fargo are quite similar; however, properties in West Fargo tend to be more expensive on average. That said, being more suburban, homes in West Fargo typically offer larger gardens and more spacious driveways.

Entertainment & Activities

Some of the foremost attractions in West Fargo include:

• Drekker Brewing Company
• Newman Outdoor Field
• Tactical Action Gaming
• Rustad Recreation Center
• Red River Market

3. Bismarck

Source: Ace Diamond / shutterstock

Occupying a commendable third place is North Dakota’s capital, Bismarck. The State Capitol, embodying a modern, art deco aesthetic, looms large above the lower city. Bismarck represents an excellent family-friendly environment, conveniently situated near the Missouri River and the Dakota Zoo.

Positioned within the top 10 locales for Millennials in North Dakota, Bismarck’s home pricing is somewhat less accommodating than Fargo, with median values still below the national average. Notably, the majority of its more than sixty-six thousand residents inhabit owned properties. The median rent is significantly lower than the national average, further emphasizing its appeal to the Millennial demographic.

This city contributes to a vibrant social atmosphere featuring live music events and DJ performances most weekends as well as several weeknights, ensuring residents have plentiful entertainment options.

Entertainment & Activities

Some notable sites to visit in Bismarck include:

• Dakota Zoo
• North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum
• North Dakota State Capitol
• Keelboat Park
• Super Slide Amusement Park
• Chief Looking’s Village

4. Grand Forks

Source: Brenda Riskey / Wikimedia

Securing a solid fourth position, Grand Forks is nestled in the east, right on the Minnesota border, and boasts a diverse population exceeding fifty-four thousand residents.

With a reasonable cost of living, commendable public education, and a vibrant nightlife scene, Grand Forks demonstrates significant appeal. The city boasts five schools with A ratings, providing children with excellent educational opportunities and a plethora of extracurricular activities.

The median home values closely align with those of Fargo. Notably, less than $200,000 will purchase a charming 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence complemented by a spacious garden and well-connected bus routes throughout central Grand Forks.

Entertainment & Activities

Some of the premier attractions in Grand Forks encompass:

• North Dakota Museum of Art
• River Cities Speedway
• Splashers of the South Seas
• The Hub Pub
• Fire Hall Theatre
• Bonzer’s Sandwich Pub
• Alerus Center

5. Horace

Source: afiler / Flickr

Occupying the fifth spot on our list of the top places to reside in North Dakota is Horace. Hosting just over two thousand residents, in any other state, one might classify Horace as a village; yet, in North Dakota, this diminutive rural community is officially designated as a city!

There exists a sense of belonging in Horace, reflected by the majority of residents who own their homes. Consequently, median home values are higher than the national average. Nevertheless, the median rental rates are comparable to those in Bismarck, albeit lower than the national average. The sole drawback is the scarcity of rental properties.

Widely recognized as an optimal location for family life in North Dakota, Horace ranks as the second-best place to invest in real estate in official listings. However, you may encounter delays in finding the perfect home on the market!

Entertainment & Activities

Some noteworthy attractions in Horace include:

• Thunder Road
• Red River Zoo
• The Roger Marris Museum
• Fargo Air Museum
• Children’s Museum at Yunker Farm
• Fort Ransom State Park
• National Buffalo Museum

6. Devil’s Lake

Source: publichall / Wikimedia

It is advised not to judge a location by its name. Devil’s Lake narrowly misses being in the top five best places to reside in North Dakota, yet comfortably claims a spot within the top ten.

More suburban than Horace, Devil’s Lake serves as an ideal locale for individuals seeking rental properties, with median rents below the national average. Furthermore, with a rent-to-ownership ratio nearly at 1:1, a plethora of properties are readily available for tenants.

For those looking to engage with nature, the lake offers abundant opportunities for aquatic recreation, with fishing being a cherished local pastime. In addition, casinos and hunting are also popular leisure activities, suggesting that Devil’s Lake may appeal more to seniors than to families.

Entertainment & Activities

Some of the best attractions in Devil’s Lake include:

• Devil’s Lake State Park
• White Horse Hill National Game Preserve
• Roosevelt Park
• Ruger Park
• Sherrif’s House Museum
• Lake Region Heritage Center

7. Jamestown

Source: Daniel M. Silva / shutterstock

With its regional airport offering swift connections to Pittsburgh in just 55 minutes, Jamestown is a practical commuter town rather than merely a city! Strategically situated between Bismarck and Fargo, Jamestown is conveniently positioned on Highway 94; residents can access the highway from most areas of the city within half an hour.

The affordable cost of living, combined with job opportunities and access to fitness and healthcare facilities, makes Jamestown an appealing option for those who prefer suburban living and aspire to homeownership. With median home values lower than the national average, purchasing a property here is indeed a feasible aspiration.

Entertainment & Activities

Some notable attractions in Jamestown include:

• National Buffalo Museum
• World’s Largest Buffalo
• The Arts Center
• Jamestown Speedway
• Buffalo City Escape
• Buffalo Lanes Inc

8. Valley City

Source: chief_huddleston / Wikimedia

Providing daily flights to Devil’s Lake and Denver, Colorado, Valley City offers excellent connectivity both by air and land. As another stop along Highway 94, it is situated 35 minutes east of Jamestown and one hour west of Fargo.

This tightly-knit community warmly welcomes new residents, making Valley City an excellent spot for anyone looking to enter the housing market in the United States. Median home values are considerably lower than the national average; in addition, the rent is also economical, rendering Valley City an attractive place to reside while saving for homeownership.

A tributary of Lake Ashtabula runs through Valley City, complemented by various parks and community fields that provide leisure opportunities for residents.

Entertainment & Activities

Notable attractions in Valley City include:

• Medicine Wheel Park
• Lake Ashtabula
• Sheyenne River Valley National Scenic Byway
• Chautauqua Park
• Barnes County Historical Society Museum

9. Beulah

Source: afiler / Flickr

While educational standards in Beulah may not rival those found in Grand Forks, the town’s employment opportunities, reasonable cost of living, and abundant housing options render it a viable choice for empty nesters.

The median rent is slightly higher than in other regions of the state; nonetheless, it remains significantly below the national average. With a community of over three thousand residents, Beulah projects a strong neighborhood atmosphere, enhanced by one of the state’s lowest crime rates.

Little Beulah has received accolades as the best location for purchasing a home in North Dakota and the second safest area in the state. Consequently, it is particularly appealing to Millennials, although this trend has yet to diversify the community significantly.

Entertainment & Activities

Some notable activities in Beulah include:

• Molco Lanes
• Beulah Park District
• Fanatics Sports Bar
• North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum

10. Wahpeton

Source: afiler / Flickr

Although public school standards in Wahpeton may not match those in the top five, this community proves itself as an excellent option for individuals considering it as a base for work commutes or as a rental property while saving for homeownership.

Rental prices are below the national average, while residents often remark on the presence of always helpful neighbors within this close-knit community. Moreover, the city is noted for its cleanliness, vibrant nightlife, and job availability for young persons.

Crime rates remain consistently low, and with over seven thousand residents, the local law enforcement can respond promptly whenever necessary.

Entertainment & Activities

Some enjoyable attractions in Wahpeton include:

• Chahinkapa Zoo
• World’s Largest Catfish
• Red Door Art Gallery and Museum
• Bois de Sioux Golf Course
• Chahinkapa Swimming Pool
• Terrace Lanes
• Northern Aire Bowling

11. Lincoln

Source: afiler / Flickr

Conveniently located near Bismarck Airport, Lincoln unfortunately does not secure a place within the top ten desirable locations to reside in North Dakota.

The small population of over three thousand primarily consists of homeowners. Consequently, this has driven the median rent above $1,000, making it one of the costliest areas in North Dakota for rentals, with limited value for prospective tenants.

However, Lincoln is recognized as an ideal residence for Millennials, and residents frequently cite good educational facilities, low crime rates, and proximity to Bismarck as the chief reasons for choosing to live here.

Entertainment & Activities

Some of the top attractions in Lincoln include:

• Plains Art Museum
• Dakota Zoo
• Dickinson Museum Center
• Raging Rivers Waterpark
• National Buffalo Museum

12. Mandan

Source: afiler / Flickr

Located just northwest of Bismarck, Mandan enjoys popularity among Millennials for similar reasons. Perfectly positioned along Highway 94, Mandan functions as a convenient suburban commuter area.

The atmosphere reflects that of a city while preserving a neighborhood charm. With median rents aligning with the state average and remaining below the national average, residents have the chance to secure charming homes affordably.

A great option for families and young professionals, this vibrant city is growing at an ideal rate; populated enough to maintain liveliness, yet slow-paced enough to prevent residents from feeling overwhelmed.

Offering a variety of shops and convenient access to the Missouri River presents excellent fishing opportunities. Aside from occasional weather-related concerns and suburban living costs, it is hard to identify significant drawbacks in Mandan.

Entertainment & Activities

Some enjoyable attractions in Mandan include:

• Raging Rivers Waterpark
• Midway Lanes Club & Trophy
• Mandan Rodeo Days
• Fort Lincoln Trolley
• North Dakota State Railroad Museum
• Broken Oar Bar

13. Williston

Source: afiler / Flickr

Far from an unfortunate placement, Williston ranks as the 13th best location to reside in North Dakota.

With ISN Airport providing multiple daily flights to Denver and Minneapolis for business professionals, this city is decidedly appealing. Williston, however, ranks lower compared to its North Dakotan counterparts primarily due to its educational facilities and crime statistics.

With the highest-rated local school maintaining a steady B-rating, parents may consider seeking alternatives, especially in light of the relatively high incidence of motor vehicle theft and burglaries in the area.

Entertainment & Activities

Some enjoyable activities in Williston include:

• Busted Knuckle Brewery Williston
• Strike Zone
• The Sports Den Bar
• Safari Trampoline Park
• Williston Basin Speedway
• Eagle Ridge Golf Club
• Grand Theatre

14. Minot

Source: afiler / Flickr

Despite its modest size, Minot Airport is a significant draw for individuals residing in this area of North Dakota, providing easy connectivity to destinations such as Denver, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, and Phoenix.

While it may fall short in terms of outdoor recreational options, this deficiency is tempered by plentiful job opportunities, housing availability, and a reasonable cost of living.

Home to over forty-six thousand people, this developing area poses an excellent opportunity for those wishing to enter the housing market here while median home values remain below the national average.

Entertainment & Activities

Some notable attractions in Minot include:

• Roosevelt Park Zoo
• Scandinavian Heritage Association
• Oak Park
• Taube Museum of Art
• Oak Park Theater
• Magic City Discovery Center
• Ace’s Lounge and Casino

15. Dickinson

Source: afiler / Flickr

Residents consistently cite ‘community effort’ as a key reason for their commitment to living in Dickinson.

Although the educational institutions may not match the quality found in Fargo, the region compensates with favorable crime rates, affordable housing, and accessible commuting distances, leaving little to undermine Dickinson’s standing.

While this location may not be the first choice for those who prioritize outdoor activities, it compensates significantly with abundant fitness and health facilities.

Entertainment & Activities

Some enjoyable attractions in Dickinson entail:

• Dickinson Museum Center
• West River Community Center
• Southside Saloon
• Patterson Lake Recreation Area
• Heart River Golf Course
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park
• Southwest Speedway
• Rocky Butte Park