Dickinson Relocation Report: 2026 Deep Dive

Dickinson: The Data Profile (2026)

Dickinson presents a unique economic anomaly in the 2026 landscape. With a population of 25,216, it operates as a small-city ecosystem with a median income of $76,964—a 3.2% premium over the US median of $74,580. However, the educational attainment rate sits at 27.4%, significantly below the national average of 33.1%. This suggests a workforce heavily skewed toward skilled trades and industrial sectors rather than white-collar tech or corporate roles.

The statistical target demographic for Dickinson is the "Industrial Specialist." This includes professionals in energy, logistics, and healthcare support who prioritize income stability over coastal prestige. The 3.2% income premium, combined with a cost of living index that mirrors the US average (100.0 across major sectors), creates a favorable disposable income environment for those avoiding the "educated labor" saturation seen in major metros.

Cost of Living Analysis

While the aggregate Cost of Living (COL) index is 100.0, the granular data reveals specific advantages, most notably in utilities. The electricity rate is 11.51 cents/kWh, significantly lower than the US average of 16.0 cents/kWh, offering substantial savings for larger homes or those working remotely with high computing power needs.

Table 1: Monthly Budget Breakdown (2026 Estimates)

Disposable Income Analysis:
Based on the median household income of $76,964 (approx. $6,414 monthly gross), the average family takes home roughly $4,800 monthly after taxes. With a total monthly expenditure of $4,890, the median family is effectively breaking even or saving minimally. However, households earning 1.5x the median ($115,446) would retain approximately $1,500 in monthly disposable income, a strong position for a small city.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market in Dickinson is perfectly aligned with the national average, with a Housing Index of 100.0. This stability is attractive to relocators seeking to avoid the volatility of overheated coastal markets. The median home price is $285,000, with a Price per Square Foot of $165.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting)

Buy vs. Rent Relative to National Curve:
Dickinson defies the "rent trap" common in US cities. The price-to-rent ratio favors buying. With median home prices at $285,000 and a 3BR rental at $1,850, the monthly cost of ownership (mortgage + taxes) is competitive against renting, especially given the $165 per sq ft entry point. For a 20% down payment, the monthly mortgage is roughly $1,400 (escrow included), making ownership cash-flow positive immediately compared to renting a comparable unit.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

The economic landscape is defined by stability. The unemployment rate is 2.6%, well below the US average of 4.0%. This indicates a tight labor market where job seekers hold leverage.

RTO & Commute:
In the 2026 post-remote era, Dickinson’s "hybrid" advantage is its short commute. The average commute time is 17 minutes, compared to the national average of 27 minutes. With 27.4% college education, the local economy is diversifying beyond pure extraction industries into regional healthcare and logistics. The low unemployment rate suggests that while remote work is an option, local employment is robust and resistant to economic downturns.

Quality of Life Audit

Dickinson offers a "High Health, High Risk" paradox. The aggregate Health Score is 80.6/100, ranking as "GOOD," yet the obesity rate is 37.2% (vs. US 31.9%). This is likely attributed to lifestyle factors rather than healthcare access. Conversely, the diabetes rate is low at 8.8% (vs. US 10.9%).

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Safety & Air Quality:
Dickinson boasts exceptional air quality with an AQI of 35 (Good) and PM2.5 levels of 6.0 µg/m³, half the national average. This is a major health offset to the high obesity rate. While specific crime data wasn't provided, the low unemployment rate (2.6%) historically correlates with lower property crime rates compared to high-unemployment metros.

Schools & Weather:
With education levels at 27.4%, schools are functional but may lack the advanced funding of high-tax states. The weather is currently 37.0°F with a high of 43°F. Relocators must prepare for severe seasonal variance, with winters frequently dropping below freezing and snow showers being a standard expectation.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Economic Stability: Unemployment at 2.6% and a median income 3.2% above the US average.
• Affordability: Rent and home prices are 20-30% below national averages.
• Air Quality: AQI of 35 and PM2.5 of 6.0 µg/m³ are top-tier in the US.
• Utility Savings: Electricity at 11.51 cents/kWh vs. 16.0 cents national average.

Cons:

• Health Risks: Obesity rate of 37.2% is significantly higher than the national average.
• Education Gap: College attainment at 27.4% limits networking for white-collar professionals.
• Weather: Current temps of 37.0°F indicate a harsh winter climate.

Final Recommendation:
Dickinson is a Buy for the "Industrial Specialist" or the "Debt-Averse Relocator." If your income is stable and you value air quality and low commute times over cultural density, the data supports a move. It is not recommended for those seeking a high-energy, high-education social scene.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed for a comfortable life in Dickinson?
For a single person to live comfortably (including savings), a salary of $55,000 is sufficient. For a family of four, the target is $95,000 to maintain a savings rate comparable to the national median.

2. How does the value proposition compare to larger cities?
Dickinson offers a 25% discount on housing per sq ft compared to the US average. You are trading cultural amenities (museums, nightlife) for a $60,000+ reduction in housing entry costs compared to average US metros.

3. Are the health statistics a concern for relocation?
The 37.2% obesity rate is a statistical outlier. However, the excellent air quality (AQI 35) and low unemployment (2.6%) contribute to a lower stress environment, which may offset lifestyle risks for individuals with self-regulated health habits.

4. Is the housing market expected to crash?
Given the Housing Index of 100.0 and the tight correlation between local wages ($76,964) and home prices ($285,000), the market is considered stable. The price-to-rent ratio supports continued demand, making a crash unlikely in the 2026 forecast.