Top 9 Affordable Cities in North Dakota

Considering a move to North Dakota?

North Dakota is known for its rich Native American culture and heritage, oil and agriculture production, and buffalo. From the rolling prairies to the rushing rivers, North Dakota is also a sight to behold.

Why it matters: Choosing the best fit for your family and your budget is crucial.

What’s ahead: If you’re interested in moving to “the breadbasket of the country”, NewHomeSource has compiled a list of the top nine most affordable cities.

1. Jamestown – Big sky country meets small-town roots

Pop: 15,789 | Median Home Value: $192,500 | Median Household Income: $54,809

• Cost of Living Index: 80.1 (19.9% below national average)

• Property Tax Rate: 1.45%

• Median Property Tax: $2,193

• Major Industries: Healthcare, manufacturing, and retail

• Mean Commute Time: 12 min

• Amenities: North American Bison Discovery Center, Frontier Village, Jamestown Reservoir

Why it’s #1: Bison, history, and affordability make Jamestown a top pick for those seeking scenic serenity with economic sense.

2. Grand Forks – Riverfront charm with a college town buzz

Pop: 59,845 | Median Home Value: $243,300 | Median Household Income: $63,838

• Cost of Living Index: 85 (15% below national average)

• Property Tax Rate: 1.56%

• Median Property Tax: $2,754

• Major Industries: Grand Forks AFB, healthcare, education, agribusiness, manufacturing, and technology

• Mean Commute Time: 15 min

• Amenities: Near Red River and Minnesota, North Dakota Museum of Art, theaters

Why it’s great: From arts to aerospace, Grand Forks blends affordability with cultural and career opportunities.

3. Mandan – Prairie living with a polished edge

Pop: 24,788 | Median Home Value: $246,300 | Median Household Income: $75,966

• Cost of Living Index: 91.9 (8.1% below national average)

• Property Tax Rate: 1.01%

• Median Property Tax: $2,562

• Major Industries: healthcare, education, utilities, and manufacturing

• Mean Commute Time: 18 min

• Amenities: Near Bismarck, Missouri River State Natural Area, golf courses, livestock auction

The draw: Close to Bismarck but quieter, Mandan offers outdoor perks and a strong local economy minus the metro price tag.

4. Fargo – North Dakota’s urban heart with Midwest values

Pop: 136,285 | Median Home Value: $269,800 | Median Household Income: $66,029

• Cost of Living Index: 90.6 (9.4% below national average)

• Property Tax Rate: 1.3%

• Median Property Tax: $3,449

• Major Industries: Air National Guard, Microsoft, healthcare, education, and retail

• Mean Commute Time: 16 min

• Amenities: Largest ND city, zoo, museums, airport, entertainment, North Dakota State University

What’s noteworthy: Fargo is the state’s cultural and economic engine offering big-city energy without the big-city costs.

5. West Fargo – Suburban growth with modern perks

Pop: 41,027 | Median Home Value: $302,200 | Median Household Income: $96,877

• Cost of Living Index: 90.6 (9.4% below national average)

• Property Tax Rate: 1.3%

• Median Property Tax: $3,449

• Major Industries: Healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail

• Mean Commute Time: 18 min

• Amenities: Bonanzaville, nightlife, arts scene, parks

The takeaway: West Fargo brings family-friendly vibes, solid schools, and room to grow all while staying budget-savvy.

6. Bismarck – Capital living with a hometown feel

Pop: 77,772 | Median Home Value: $291,400 | Median Household Income: $77,608

• Cost of Living Index: 95.2 (4.8% below national average)

• Property Tax Rate: 1.14%

• Median Property Tax: $2,764

• Major Industries: Healthcare, retail, government, and education

• Mean Commute Time: 16 min

• Amenities: Dakota Zoo, ND State Capitol, North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum, parks, shopping

Why it works: With strong wages and vibrant civic life, Bismarck balances economic power with affordability.

7. Dickinson – Gateway to the Badlands with a grounded spirit

Pop: 25,695 | Median Home Value: $252,400 | Median Household Income: $76,964

• Cost of Living Index: 92.2 (7.8% below national average)

• Property Tax Rate: 0.55%

• Median Property Tax: $2,116

• Major Industries: Healthcare, construction, education, and agriculture

• Mean Commute Time: 18 min

• Amenities: Parks, sports centers, Badlands Dinosaur Museum, Dickinson State University

The allure: Dickinson offers access to nature and education with some of the lowest property taxes in the state.

8. Minot – Military backbone meets cultural flair

Pop: 47,440 | Median Home Value: $254,400 | Median Household Income: $77,431

• Cost of Living Index: 85.1 (14.9% below national average)

• Property Tax Rate: 1.65%

• Median Property Tax: $2,785

• Major Industries: Minot AFB, education, and healthcare

• Mean Commute Time: 19 min

• Amenities: Minot State University, Dakota Territory Air Museum, Roosevelt Park Zoo, ND State Fair, Taube Museum of Art, Minot International Airport

Why it’s special: Minot blends affordability with activity anchored by an Air Force base, airport, and year-round events.

9. Williston – Frontier energy meets modern ambition

Pop: 28,821 | Median Home Value: $262,700 | Median Household Income: $84,309

• Cost of Living Index: 93.3 (6.7% below national average)

• Property Tax Rate: 0.85%

• Median Property Tax: $1,913

• Major Industries: Oil and gas, agriculture, and healthcare

• Mean Commute Time: 17 min

• Amenities: Parks, historic sites, golf courses

Why it’s a win: Fueled by oil and agriculture, Williston draws opportunity seekers looking to live affordably on the edge of boomtown growth.

The Bottom Line

North Dakota delivers affordability with surprising variety – military hubs, college towns, booming job markets, and wide-open views. Whether you want urban ease or prairie peace, there's a budget-friendly home waiting on the Northern Plains.