North Dakota is notable for its rugged but beautiful landscapes and the diverse wildlife that inhabits them. Tourists come to take in the unique scenery of the Badlands, while others choose to move here to take advantage of favorable income tax rates and a lower cost of living. With just under 780,000 residents, North Dakota is one of the smallest states by population. If you’re looking for wide open spaces and a slower pace, it could be an excellent choice for a move.

There are a number of cities that could be considered the best places in North Dakota to live for families, young professionals, retirees, and those who love the great outdoors. Fargo, for example, attracts a significant number of job seekers, while Bismarck is a haven for families thanks to its excellent amenities. North Dakota’s smaller cities and towns include some hidden gems, like Bottineau and Valley City.

Comparing the cost of living by state can make deciding where to move a little easier. We’ve rounded up the best places to live in North Dakota, using the Cost of Living Index as a guide.

Image Credit: zrfphoto/istockphoto.

Best Affordable Places to Live in North Dakota

When deciding where to live, it helps to consider what you’ll pay for housing, food, transportation — all of the basic expenses of day-to-day living. These cities are among the most affordable places to live in North Dakota overall. Before you shop for a home, research tips on how to qualify for a mortgage so you know what to expect.

1. Grafton

Grafton is arguably one of the best places to live in North Dakota from a cost perspective. There’s always something fun to do here year-round, whether it’s ice skating at the local rinks in winter or hiking the scenic trails of Icelandic State Park in the spring and summer.

• Population: 4,139
• Median Household Income: $50,273
• Cost of Living: 81% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $800/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.5
• Average Property Tax: 1.08%

Housing Affordability: Grafton appeals to both renters and homebuyers who are looking for affordable housing options. The median rent price is much less than the national median and property taxes are low. The price-to-income ratio could be considered the sweet spot for people who are looking to buy on a budget.

Image Credit: corradobarattaphotos/istockphoto.

2. Rolla

Rolla is a smaller North Dakota city but it might appeal to you if you want to save money as a renter or homeowner. Local attractions like the North American Game Warden Museum and W’eel Turtle are certainly unique and if you have a passport and a full tank of gas, Winnipeg is just a few hours’ drive away.

• Population: 1,186
• Median Household Income: $57,727
• Cost of Living: 79% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $691/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.3
• Average Property Tax: 0.96%

Housing Affordability: Rolla has an exceptionally low cost of living overall, which is reflected in part by its housing prices. It’s possible to find a place to rent for much less than the national median and should you decide to buy a property instead, you’ll pay some of the lowest property taxes in North Dakota.

Image Credit: ©TripAdvisor.

3. Oakes

Oakes is situated in the southeastern part of the state, close to the South Dakota border. It’s a smaller town but it’s hard to find a place that’s more affordable to live, based on housing prices and the overall cost of living. The city has a lengthy and interesting history, as it got its start as a stagecoach and railroad station.

• Population: 1,798
• Median Household Income: $65,441
• Cost of Living: 79% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $620/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.1
• Average Property Tax: 1.08%

Housing Affordability: Oakes is affordable for renters and homebuyers alike. Rental rates are substantially lower than the national median and the price-to-income ratio is a positive. Property taxes won’t bleed you dry either.

Image Credit: The Klein and Sutmar Block on Main Avenue in Oakes by Andrew Filer (CC BY-SA).

4. Jamestown

Jamestown sits approximately halfway between Fargo and Bismarck, both of which are roughly a 90-minute drive in either direction. One of the things Jamestown is notable for, aside from being one of the most affordable cities in North Dakota, is its love of the buffalo. Here, you’ll find both the National Buffalo Museum and the World’s Largest Buffalo.

• Population: 15,754
• Median Household Income: $49,038
• Cost of Living: 89% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $795/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.7
• Average Property Tax: 1.12%

Housing Affordability: Jamestown features low rents which help to attract bargain-seekers and the property taxes aren’t outrageous if you’re thinking of buying. The price-to-income ratio hints at affordability so this North Dakota city may be one to add to your short list of places to consider moving to.

Image Credit: Garrett Rymer/istockphoto.

5. Valley City

Valley City is about an hour’s drive from Fargo, which could make it appealing for people who don’t mind a longer commute. The cost of living is much less than the national average and while the city is small, it doesn’t lack any of the basic amenities you’d expect to find. There are more than 30 parks in the city, including Medicine Wheel Park, which could be perfect if you like enjoying the fresh air.

• Population: 6,566
• Median Household Income: $54,629
• Cost of Living: 87% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $750/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.1
• Average Property Tax: 1.03%

Housing Affordability: Renting in Valley City won’t cost an arm and a leg and it’s possible to find a place for well under the national rental median. Owning a home is equally affordable, thanks in part to the lower property taxes you’ll pay.

Image Credit: Christopher Cagney/istockphoto.

Best Places to Live in North Dakota for Families

Starting or raising a family may necessitate a move if you’re looking for an affordable city that offers a kid-friendly environment with lots of fun things to do. These North Dakota cities are some of the best places for families, but going through the mortgage preapproval process can give you a better idea of how much home you can truly afford.

1. West Fargo

West Fargo is a suburb of Fargo and quite a few families live here, along with young professionals and retirees. Some of the best things about raising kids here include convenient access to education and the many different options you have for dining, shopping, and recreation. The Red River Zoo and Bonanzaville (a museum and village on the outskirts of West Fargo) are just two of the top attractions you might want to explore in the Fargo area.

• Population: 39,985
• Median Household Income: $93,382
• Cost of Living: 81% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $1,695/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.4
• Average Property Tax: 1.33%

Housing Affordability: West Fargo is a little more expensive than other cities in the Fargo metro area, but rents are still affordable, as is owning a home. The biggest sticking point may be the property taxes, which are among the highest in the state.

Image Credit: BOB WESTON/istockphoto.

2. Ellendale

Ellendale is just around the corner from Oakes and it could be suited to families who are interested in smaller-town living. Given its size, there aren’t quite as many amenities here as there are in other North Dakota cities on this list. But you might not mind if you’re looking for a quieter place to call home.

• Population: 1,085
• Median Household Income: $40,125
• Cost of Living: 79.5% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $625/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.2
• Average Property Tax: 1.08%

Housing Affordability: Ellendale could be a haven for those seeking affordable rents or reasonably priced homes for sale. The average property tax is below what you’ll pay in other North Dakota cities, which can add to your overall cost savings.

Image Credit: Downtown Ellendale in North Dakota by Andrew Filer (CC BY-SA).

3. Horace

Horace is a smaller suburb of Fargo and it’s only a 20-minute drive into the city, which could make it a good choice for planning a day trip with the kids or commuting to work. You’ll pay a little more to rent a home here but overall, the cost of living is still below the national average. Families appreciate the quality of the local school system and the close-knit feel.

• Population: 3,358
• Median Household Income: $138,636
• Cost of Living: 97.7% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $2,098/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.9
• Average Property Tax: 1.33%

Housing Affordability: Horace is an affordable option for homebuyers, with a good price-to-income ratio. In fact, it could make sense to consider buying instead of renting, as the median rent price is above the national median.

Image Credit: DenisTangneyJr/istockphoto.

4. Stanley

Stanley is a small town in western North Dakota, just down the road from Minot. The city has a strong sense of community and people generally tend to look out for one another. The Roosevelt Park Zoo and the Scandinavian Heritage Park are two of the most interesting local attractions that are worth checking out with the kids.

• Population: 2,392
• Median Household Income: $97,000
• Cost of Living: 81.1% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $1,700/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.3
• Average Property Tax: 0.66%

Housing Affordability: Stanley is an affordable option for homebuyers, with low property taxes being a major selling point. Renting, however, will cost you a little more compared to other North Dakota cities but rent prices are still under the national median.

Image Credit: @TripAdvisor.

5. Lisbon

Lisbon is located just west of the Sheyenne National Grassland and a little over an hour away from Fargo. The city has earned a reputation for being family-friendly, with a strong sense of community, and it doesn’t hurt that housing is highly affordable. There are plenty of opportunities for kids (and parents) to enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

• Population: 2,190
• Median Household Income: $56,385
• Cost of Living: 79.7% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $550/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.7
• Average Property Tax: 1.14%

Housing Affordability: Lisbon might catch your eye if you want to find an ultra-low-cost city for renting. The overall cost of living is significantly below the national average and the price-to-income ratio is highly favorable for homebuyers.

Image Credit: The Lisbon Bridge over the Sheyenne River in Lisbon, North Dakota, USA by Acroterion (CC BY-SA).

Best Places to Live in North Dakota for Young Adults

Solid job opportunities and affordable housing are likely to be on the must-have list for any young adult who’s looking for a new place to live. And for those thinking of buying a home, there are different types of mortgage loans that can help you reach that goal. These cities are the best places to live in North Dakota as a young person.

1. Westgate

Westgate is a neighborhood in Fargo where you’ll find plenty of younger professionals. The median age is 33 years old and there are a significant number of childless singles, with a fairly even split between men and women. Nearly half of the population is college-educated and most people work for private companies in white-collar jobs.

• Population: 3,913
• Median Household Income: $53,717
• Cost of Living: 91% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $839/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.3
• Average Property Tax: 1.33%

Housing Affordability: Westgate could be a great option for young adults and professionals who are looking for an inexpensive home to rent. Buying is also a possibility, based on the price-to-income ratio. On average, homeowners pay more for property taxes here but you won’t need a jumbo mortgage loan to buy a property.

Image Credit: Tiago_Fernandez/istockphoto.

2. Prairiewood

Prairiewood is also part of the Fargo metro area and is attractive to young professionals who are seeking a smaller, quieter neighborhood. More people rent than own here and there are more childless households than households with kids. Young adults have plenty of opportunities to mingle and connect, with numerous bars, restaurants, cafes, and parks dotting the local landscape.

• Population: 1,437
• Median Household Income: $59,026
• Cost of Living: 91% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $1,300/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.9
• Average Property Tax: 1.33%

Housing Affordability: Prairiewood’s cost of living isn’t overwhelming, though rents are just a bit higher here than in other North Dakota cities. The price-to-income ratio isn’t the lowest, but it isn’t the highest either, suggesting that housing is still affordable.

(Learn more: Personal Loan Calculator) 

Image Credit: DenisTangneyJr/istockphoto.

3. Willow Park

Willow Park is a small, quiet neighborhood that’s teeming with young professionals, many of whom are college educated, unmarried, and childless. The area is a hotspot for renters who are looking for affordable housing, as home-buying is a little more costly here compared to other Fargo suburbs. There are lots of local clubs, pubs, and bars if you’re interested in nightlife and Fargo is just a 15-minute drive away.

• Population: 3,160
• Median Household Income: $53,717
• Cost of Living: 91% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $895/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 5.4
• Average Property Tax: 1.33%

Housing Affordability: Willow Park is one of the best cities for renters, based on the currently low market prices. Homeowners, however, spend a slightly larger proportion of their income on housing here, with property taxes representing a significant annual expense.

Image Credit: Sakkawokkie/istockphoto.

4. Osgood

Osgood is one of Fargo’s newest suburban neighborhoods, with a small but rapidly growing population. The area is mostly populated by younger professionals, many of whom work for private companies and earn a higher median household income. In terms of housing, there’s a fairly even split between renters and homeowners here.

• Population: 5,540
• Median Household Income: $82,374
• Cost of Living: 91% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $978/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.5
• Average Property Tax: 1.33%

Housing Affordability: Osgood features low rent prices and plenty of available housing and a cost of living that’s below the national average. The price-to-income ratio and property taxes are on par with what you’ll find in other Cass County neighborhoods. North Dakota offers a first-time homebuyer program, which is a great incentive to consider owning a property versus renting one.

Image Credit: YinYang/istockphoto.

5. Fargo

Fargo is the largest city in the Peace Garden State and it’s a magnet for job-seekers as well as young adults who are interested in getting an education at North Dakota State University. The population has a median age of around 31 and most residents are single, childless, and hold at least one college degree. When you’re looking for something to do, you’ve got your choice of parks, local cafes and restaurants, shopping, and historical sites.

• Population: 131,444
• Median Household Income: $60,243
• Cost of Living: 91% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $995/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.8
• Average Property Tax: 1.33%

Housing Affordability: You might assume renting or buying in Fargo would be expensive, but that isn’t the case. Rents are below the national median and the price-to-income ratio isn’t too eye-watering. The only drawback is that property taxes are among the highest in the state.

Image Credit: DenisTangneyJr/istockphoto.

Best Places to Live in North Dakota for Retirees

North Dakota doesn’t tax Social Security retirement benefits, railroad retirement benefits, or military retirement benefits, which makes it a good place to live for retirees. However, beyond taxes, it’s important to consider other factors such as access to health care and the overall cost of living when deciding where to retire.

1. Garrison

Garrison is a small community in the western part of North Dakota, close to Lake Audubon. The median age of residents is around 50 years old, which could be attractive for retirees or near-retirees. Given its location, it’s better suited to people who don’t mind a rural lifestyle, though Minot is just a 45-minute drive if you need to see a specialist or simply want to venture into the city.

• Population: 1,432
• Median Household Income: $61,553
• Cost of Living: 83% of U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $611/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.3
• Average Property Tax: 0.76%

Housing Affordability: Garrison offers rock-bottom rent prices and property taxes that won’t break the bank. The price-to-income ratio makes homebuying an affordable prospect for those seeking a smaller community to call home.

Image Credit: Garrison by Andrew Filer (None).

2. Beulah

Beulah is another small town with an older population that retirees might consider when looking for a place to live. The town is friendly and offers plenty of amenities, including access to quality health care. And its Mercer County Historical Museum and Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site are ideal for history buffs.

• Population: 3,038
• Median Household Income: $78,688
• Cost of Living: 90.4% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $650/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.5
• Average Property Tax: 0.92%

Housing Affordability: Beulah rates as one of the cheapest places to live in North Dakota, both for renters and homeowners. The median rent is exceptionally low, and the price-to-income ratio is below the range of 3 to 5 that financial experts typically recommend. Property tax rates are also among the lowest of any county in the state.

Image Credit: Beulah by Andrew Filer (CC BY-SA).

3. Minot

Minot is a larger city of around 50,000 residents and it has some great things to offer retirees. For example, if you’re interested in going back to school you might enroll in classes at Minot State University. Or if you want to get out and see the sights, you can visit one of the many museums or cultural attractions in the area. And there are plenty of doctors to choose from when you need routine or specialty care.

• Population: 47,759
• Median Household Income: $68,543
• Cost of Living: 86% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $895/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.5
• Average Property Tax: 1.13%

Housing Affordability: Minot is another affordable option for renters, with median rent prices that are significantly less than the national median. The price-to-income ratio is on par with other budget-friendly North Dakota cities, though Minot is subject to a slightly higher property tax rate at the county level.

Image Credit: jasony00/istockphoto.

4. Grand Forks

Grand Forks lies about an hour north of Fargo and it’s just next door to Grand Forks Air Force Base. The city has a relaxed feel and even though it’s a larger metro area, there are plenty of spaces to enjoy the outdoors and breathe the fresh air. The University of North Dakota is located here if you’re interested in going to school in retirement and there are a number of doctors in the area specializing in geriatric medicine.

• Population: 58,692
• Median Household Income: $53,611
• Cost of Living: 82% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $817/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.7
• Average Property Tax: 1.23%

Housing Affordability: Grand Forks is among the least expensive places to live in North Dakota for renters, with a median rent price under the national median. Property taxes will cost you a little more, though that doesn’t detract too much from housing affordability overall.

Image Credit: DenisTangneyJr/istockphoto.

5. Bismarck

Bismarck sits adjacent to the Missouri River and it’s one of North Dakota’s largest cities by population. The median age of residents is a bit younger, but there are plenty of retirees living in the city and its surrounding suburbs. Bismarck is known for its excellent healthcare system, which might be a mark in its favor for retirees with chronic or serious medical issues. There’s no shortage of things to do and see either.

• Population: 74,445
• Median Household Income: $70,125
• Cost of Living: 80% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $1,295/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.8
• Average Property Tax: 0.90%

Housing Affordability: Bismarck doesn’t offer any breaks in terms of the cost of living, but housing is still reasonable. Renters pay less than the national median while the price-to-income ratio isn’t likely to put homebuying out of reach. The local housing market isn’t overly competitive either.

Image Credit: Nathan Livedalen/istockphoto.

Best Places to Live in North Dakota for Outdoor Fun

North Dakota is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, abounding in lakes, rivers, and grasslands. There are numerous national parks and historic sites scattered throughout the state where you can hike, bike, fish, and swim.

1. Williston

Williston is tucked away in the northwest corner of the state, not far from the Montana border. The area is suited for lots of outdoor activities, including bird watching, fishing, and even hunting if you’re so inclined. If you’re interested in getting on the water, you can go kayaking, paddleboarding, or canoeing at Lewis & Clark State Park.

• Population: 27,029
• Median Household Income: $75,061
• Cost of Living: 97% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $1,071/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.2
• Average Property Tax: 0.70%

Housing Affordability: In terms of the cost of living, Williston is one of the more expensive options but renters tend to fare well here, as do homeowners with regard to property taxes. The price-to-income ratio is a little closer to the upper limit of the acceptable range, but not by much.

Image Credit: Business district of Williston by Andrew Filer (CC BY-SA).

2. Lincoln

Lincoln is a neighboring city to Bismarck and its proximity to the Missouri River. The Pawnee State Recreation Area is just a few miles away if you’d like to spend a day — or a weekend — on the shores of Pawnee Lake. Some of the outdoor activities you can try here include archery, biking, boating, kayaking, horseback riding, and fishing for bass, catfish, and bluegills.

• Population: 4,334
• Median Household Income: $76,333
• Cost of Living: 83.3% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $1,238/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.5
• Average Property Tax: 0.90%

Housing Affordability: Lincoln’s rental market offers a variety of options, with a median rent price that’s much less than what you’d pay nationally. Property taxes are slightly higher here but homes are still affordable, based on the price-to-income ratio.

Image Credit: JoeChristensen/istockphoto.

3. Amber Valley

Amber Valley is a suburb of Fargo and it’s a favorite among those who enjoy biking, jogging, or walking but want to stay close to the city. The various parks in the area have a number of recreational trails to explore and if you want to do something with kids, there’s the Red River Zoo. You can also try your hand at recreational sports at Anderson Park.

• Population: 1,143
• Median Household Income: $82,374
• Cost of Living: 85% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $1,012/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 3.5
• Average Property Tax: 1.33%

Housing Affordability: Amber Valley offers reasonably low rates for renters and the price-to-income ratio isn’t excessive. Like other Cass County cities, homeowners pay more in property taxes which is a consideration when deciding where to buy.

Image Credit: halbergman/istockphoto.

4. Dickinson

Dickinson is next door to Theodore Roosevelt State Park and the Dakota Prairie Grasslands, where you’ll find some of the most impressive views around. There are trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking, along with opportunities for fishing, hunting, and canoeing. If you’re interested in whitewater rafting and don’t mind a drive, you can do that in nearby Bismarck.

• Population: 24,979
• Median Household Income: $64,806
• Cost of Living: 80% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $799/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 4.3
• Average Property Tax: 0.80%

Housing Affordability: Dickinson rental prices are less than half the national median, and the city has one of the lowest cost of living rankings in North Dakota. The price-to-income ratio is still moderate enough for homebuying to be considered affordable.

Image Credit: Anna Honorata/istockphoto.

5. Walhalla

Walhalla lies along the Canadian border and it’s the northernmost city to be featured on our list. One of the major attractions in the area is the Pembina Gorge State Recreation Area, which is a top destination for hiking, ATV riding, kayaking, and horseback riding. In winter, you can head to Frost Fire Park for skiing and snowboarding.

• Population: 896
• Median Household Income: $40,500
• Cost of Living: 79.1% of the U.S. average
• Median Rent Price: $750/month
• Home Price-to-Income Ratio: 2.7
• Average Property Tax: 1.15%

Housing Affordability: Walhalla is one of the most affordable cities in North Dakota for homebuyers, thanks to its price-to-income ratio. Property taxes are also among the lowest in the state. A home affordability calculator can give you a better idea of what you can realistically spend if you’re hoping to buy.

Image Credit: @TripAdvisor.

The Takeaway

North Dakota has something to offer for just about anyone, whether you’re starting a family, looking for a job, or are ready to enjoy your later years. All of the cities listed here, large or small, represent some of the best options for keeping costs to a minimum.

This article originally appeared on SoFi.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org.

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