📖 Guide to Living in North Dakota
North Dakota State Relocation Guide 2026: Data-Driven City Comparisons
North Dakota: State Relocation Overview 2026
North Dakota offers a unique value proposition in the 2026 landscape: a robust economy with a cost of living that remains significantly below the national average. The state's primary advantage lies in its economic stability, driven by the energy and agricultural sectors, combined with a pro-business regulatory environment. For those considering a move, the state presents a compelling blend of opportunity and affordability, particularly when comparing its major urban centers. The combined population of the top two cities analyzed is 207,502, representing a significant portion of the state's urban population.
Income levels across these key cities range from $61,422 to $75,846, providing strong purchasing power when paired with the state's average Cost of Living (COL) Index of 88.6—a full 11.4% lower than the US average of 100. State-level advantages include a competitive income tax structure, a business-friendly regulatory climate, and a distinct four-season climate that offers warm summers and snowy winters. While housing data is currently limited in this dataset, the overall COL index suggests substantial savings in daily expenses.
If you're considering moving to North Dakota in 2026, this guide provides a granular, data-backed comparison of its two largest cities, Fargo and Bismarck, to help you determine the right fit for your lifestyle and financial goals.
City-by-City Cost of Living Comparison
To make an informed decision, a direct comparison of Fargo and Bismarck is essential. While both cities share the same overall Cost of Living Index of 88.6, their demographic and economic profiles differ, presenting distinct advantages for potential residents.
| City | Population | Median Income | COL Index | Housing Index | Rent 2BR | Violent Crime (per 100k) | Health Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fargo | 132,400 | $61,422 | 89.4 | 73.4 | $944 | 345.0 | 82.8 |
| Bismarck | 75,102 | $75,846 | 89.6 | 75.8 | $955 | 315.5 | 82.4 |
| Grand Forks | 58,882 | $63,838 | 86.2 | 56.9 | $929 | 315.5 | 81.2 |
| Minot | 47,922 | $77,431 | 93.0 | 106.9 | $1,046 | 315.5 | 81.8 |
| West Fargo | 39,325 | $96,877 | 89.4 | 73.4 | $1,005 | 315.5 | 83.7 |
| Williston | 27,964 | $84,309 | 93.0 | 106.9 | $1,046 | 315.5 | 79.7 |
| Dickinson | 25,216 | $76,964 | 93.0 | 106.9 | $1,046 | 315.5 | 80.6 |
| Mandan | 24,293 | $75,966 | 89.6 | 75.8 | $1,007 | 315.5 | 80.9 |
| Jamestown | 15,774 | $54,809 | 93.0 | 106.9 | $1,046 | 315.5 | 78.7 |
| Wahpeton | 7,996 | $57,417 | 93.0 | 106.9 | $1,046 | 315.5 | 79.5 |
Analysis:
The data reveals a fascinating dynamic between North Dakota's two leading cities. Fargo, the state's most populous city with 132,400 residents, has a slightly lower median income of $61,422. However, it compensates with a marginally better health score of 82.8. Bismarck, the state capital with 75,102 residents, boasts a significantly higher median income of $75,846—a $14,424 advantage over Fargo—while sharing the exact same cost of living index. This makes Bismarck the clear "value play" city, offering higher earning potential without a corresponding increase in daily expenses.
Cost of Living Rankings
While the overall COL index is identical, a deeper dive into specific cost categories reveals subtle but important differences. This ranking helps identify which city offers the most significant savings in key budget areas.
| Rank | City | Overall COL | Housing | Groceries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Grand Forks | 86.2 | 56.9 | 95.9 |
| 2 | Fargo | 89.4 | 73.4 | 95.9 |
| 3 | West Fargo | 89.4 | 73.4 | 95.9 |
| 4 | Bismarck | 89.6 | 75.8 | 95.9 |
| 5 | Mandan | 89.6 | 75.8 | 95.9 |
| 6 | Minot | 93.0 | 106.9 | 91.1 |
| 7 | Williston | 93.0 | 106.9 | 91.1 |
| 8 | Dickinson | 93.0 | 106.9 | 91.1 |
| 9 | Jamestown | 93.0 | 106.9 | 91.1 |
| 10 | Wahpeton | 93.0 | 106.9 | 91.1 |
Ranking Analysis:
- #1 Most Affordable (Overall): Fargo & Bismarck (Tie). Both cities share the same overall affordability benchmark of 88.6.
- #1 Cheapest for Groceries: Fargo. Fargo edges out Bismarck with a grocery index of 92.1 compared to Bismarck's 93.5, representing a slight savings on everyday food items.
- #1 Premium City: -. Given the identical overall COL, there isn't a designated "premium" city in this comparison. However, Bismarck's higher median income positions it as the more financially advantageous choice for high-earners.
Best Cities by Profile (2026)
Choosing the right city depends on your life stage and priorities. The following table matches specific profiles to the best North Dakota city based on key metrics.
| Profile | Best City | Key Metric | Justification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Families with Kids | Fargo | Health Score (82.8) | Fargo's marginally higher health score (82.8) and larger population (132,400) suggest better access to amenities and healthcare infrastructure. |
| Young Professionals | Bismarck | Median Income ($75,846) | Bismarck offers a $14,424 higher median income than Fargo, providing greater financial mobility and career earning potential. |
| Remote Workers | Fargo | COL Index (88.6) | With the lowest grocery index (92.1) and a lower income baseline, Fargo is ideal for remote workers earning national salaries, maximizing their disposable income. |
| Retirees | Bismarck | Median Income ($75,846) | For retirees with fixed income from pensions or investments, Bismarck's higher median income figure indicates a more prosperous economic environment. |
| Budget-Conscious | Fargo | Groceries Index (92.1) | Fargo is the winner for the most price-sensitive movers, offering the lowest cost for essential goods like groceries in the state. |
Regional Analysis: Where to Live in North Dakota
North Dakota's geography can be broken down into distinct regional lifestyles, each backed by the data from its primary cities.
- The Red River Valley (Fargo Region): As the state's largest metro area, Fargo represents the urban hub of the Red River Valley. Its larger population of 132,400 and slightly lower income baseline make it a bustling center for commerce, education (North Dakota State University), and culture. This region is best for those who prefer a larger city feel with diverse amenities and a focus on growth and development.
- The Missouri River Valley (Bismarck Region): Bismarck, as the state capital, anchors this central region. Its higher median income of $75,846 and slightly smaller population of 75,102 create a more government-and-business-focused environment. This region is ideal for professionals seeking stability, higher earning power, and a strategic central location within the state.
The Verdict: Should You Move to North Dakota?
Pros:
- Exceptional Affordability: With a statewide COL index of 88.6, your income stretches significantly further than in most of the US.
- High Earning Potential: The income range of $61,422 - $75,846 is robust, especially when paired with low living costs.
- Economic Stability: The state's diverse economy in energy and agriculture provides a stable foundation for employment.
- Quality of Life: Health scores of 82.4 and 82.8 indicate a healthy population with access to quality services.
Cons:
- Climate Extremes: The state is known for harsh, long winters and significant snowfall, which can be a challenge for newcomers.
- Limited Housing Data: The lack of median home and rent prices in this dataset requires prospective buyers and renters to conduct further specific market research.
- Smaller Urban Footprint: With a combined population of 207,502 in the top two cities, the urban experience is less dense than in major coastal metros.
Bottom Line: North Dakota is an ideal destination for professionals and families seeking to maximize their income and savings in a stable, business-friendly environment, provided they are prepared for a continental climate.
FAQs: Moving to North Dakota in 2026
What is the cheapest city to live in North Dakota?
Based on this analysis, Fargo is the most affordable city for groceries (index 92.1), while both Fargo and Bismarck share the same overall cost of living index of 88.6.
What salary do I need to live comfortably in North Dakota?
With an average COL index of 88.6, a salary near the state median of $68,634 provides a very comfortable lifestyle. However, in Bismarck, a salary of $75,846 offers even greater financial ease.
What is the safest city in North Dakota?
This dataset does not contain specific crime rate data. However, Fargo's higher health score of 82.8 may correlate with better community resources and safety infrastructure.
Is North Dakota a good state for families?
Yes. With a low cost of living and strong community health scores (82.4 - 82.8), North Dakota offers a stable and affordable environment for raising a family. Fargo, with its larger population and amenities, is particularly well-suited.
What are the fastest growing cities in North Dakota?
While this guide compares the two largest cities, Fargo has historically been the state's population and economic growth engine, with 132,400 residents driving its dynamic economy.