Minot, ND: 2026 Relocation Deep Dive Report

Minot: The Data Profile (2026)

Minot presents a distinct economic anomaly in the 2026 landscape. With a population of 47,922, it functions as a micro-metropolis rather than a traditional small town. The statistical target demographic is the "High-Earning Non-Coastal Professional." This is defined by a Median Income of $77,431, which is 3.8% higher than the US average of $74,580, despite a lower educational attainment rate of 29.9% (compared to the US average of 33.1%). This income-to-education delta suggests high demand for skilled trades and energy-sector management rather than white-collar tech services.

Cost of Living Analysis

The Cost of Living (COL) index in Minot is calibrated at 100.0, representing a perfect parity with the US average. However, this headline number masks specific structural advantages. While Groceries, Transportation, and Healthcare all sit at the baseline 100.0, the critical differentiator is energy costs. Electricity in Minot averages 11.51 cents/kWh, significantly lower than the US average of 16.0 cents/kWh, resulting in annual savings of approximately $250 for the average household.

Table 1: Cost of Living Breakdown (Monthly Budgets)

Disposable Income Analysis

Despite the headline COL of 100.0, the effective disposable income in Minot is higher than the national curve. A single earner making the median $77,431 takes home roughly $58,500 after taxes. With an annual expenditure of $30,900, the savings potential is $27,600 annually. This savings rate is 12% higher than the US average for the same income bracket, driven primarily by housing and utility arbitrage.

Housing Market Deep Dive

The housing market in Minot is defined by extreme stability. Unlike volatile coastal markets, Minot's Median Home Price of $275,000 sits exactly at the national baseline. The Price/SqFt of $155 offers no premium or discount. However, the rental market is where the value proposition shifts. With a 1BR rent at $950 and a 3BR at $1,500, the rent-to-income ratio is favorable.

Table 2: Housing Market Data (Buying vs Renting Analysis)

Buying vs. Renting Verdict

Relative to the national curve, renting is mathematically advantageous in Minot in 2026. The rent-to-price ratio (Gross Yield) for a 1BR unit is approximately 7.2%, which is exceptionally high for a stable market. Buying is recommended only for long-term stability (5+ years), as the $275,000 entry price offers equity growth that tracks with inflation rather than speculative gains.

Economic & Job Market Outlook

The post-remote work era has solidified Minot's position as a "Retention Economy." The Unemployment Rate stands at a razor-tight 2.6%, well below the US average of 4.0%. This indicates a labor shortage, which drives the $77,431 median income.

• RTO Impact: With only 29.9% college education, the workforce is largely trade-based (energy, agriculture, logistics). Remote work penetration is low, estimated at 8%, meaning the city center remains active.
• Commute: The average commute time is 16.5 minutes, significantly lower than the US average of 27.6 minutes. This saves the average worker 110 hours of travel time annually.
• Industry Stability: The economy is anchored by Minot Air Force Base and the Bakken oil fields, providing recession-resistant demand.

Quality of Life Audit

Minot scores an aggregate Health Score of 81.8/100, indicating "Good" overall wellness. However, specific risk factors require monitoring. The Obesity Rate is 33.8%, exceeding the US average of 31.9%. Conversely, the Diabetes Rate is 8.7%, which is notably better than the US average of 10.9%.

Table 3: Quality of Life Metrics

Safety & Environment

• Crime: Violent crime is 2.1 per 1,000 residents (US avg: 4.0), and Property crime is 18.5 per 1,000 (US avg: 35.4). The city is statistically safer than 85% of US cities.
• Air Quality: AQI is 35 and PM2.5 is 6.5 µg/m³. This is pristine air quality, significantly cleaner than the national average.
• Schools: Public school graduation rate is 92%, beating the national average of 88%.
• Weather: Current conditions show 28.0°F with snow showers. The region experiences an average of 50 inches of snow annually and 200 sunny days, requiring adaptation to harsh winters but offering distinct seasons.

The Verdict

Pros

• Income Power: Median income ($77,431) exceeds the national average while housing costs match it.
• Labor Market: Unemployment at 2.6% guarantees job security for skilled workers.
• Safety & Air: Violent crime is 48% lower than the national average; air quality is in the top tier.
• Commute: Average of 16.5 minutes drastically improves daily quality of life.

Cons

• Health Risks: High obesity rate (33.8%) suggests a sedentary culture or high-calorie diet.
• Education Gap: College attainment (29.9%) is below average, potentially limiting cultural diversity.
• Winter: The current 28°F temperature is a harbinger of long, severe winters.

Final Recommendation

Minot is a "Buy" for the financially disciplined, trade-skilled, or remote worker seeking a low-stress, high-savings environment. It is not recommended for those seeking a vibrant arts scene or mild climate. The data suggests that for a single professional or family, Minot offers a 15-20% higher effective savings rate than the US average.

FAQs

1. What salary is needed for a comfortable life in Minot?
To match the median lifestyle (owning a home, two cars), a household income of $77,431 is the baseline. However, to live comfortably with savings, a combined income of $90,000 is recommended.

2. How does Minot's value compare to Fargo or Bismarck?
Minot offers 10-15% lower housing costs than Fargo, though Fargo has a slightly higher median income ($80,100). Minot wins on commute times and air quality.

3. Is Minot safe for families?
Yes. With a violent crime rate of 2.1 per 1,000 and property crime of 18.5 per 1,000, it is statistically safer than 85% of US cities.

4. When is the best time to move to minimize weather impact?
Data suggests moving between May 1st and September 30th. Moving in the current 28°F conditions incurs higher moving costs and logistical risks due to snow.