Moving to North Dakota: What You Need to Know
North Dakota eliminated its state income tax in 2024, making it one of the most tax-friendly states in the country. The state has consistently had one of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation, driven by the oil industry in the Bakken region and a strong agricultural sector. Fargo has emerged as an unexpected tech hub with Microsoft, Amazon, and several startups. With a total population of about 780,000 and median home prices around $250,000, North Dakota offers extreme affordability but requires tolerance for harsh winters and rural living.
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Cost of Living in North Dakota
Median Home Price
$250,000
Median Monthly Rent
$950/mo
Avg Local Move
$850
Avg Long-Distance Move
$4,000
Taxes in North Dakota
| Tax Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| State Income Tax | 0% (eliminated in 2024) |
| Effective Property Tax | 0.94% |
| State Sales Tax | 5% + local up to 3% |
Job Market & Economy
North Dakota Climate & Weather
Extreme continental climate with brutally cold winters reaching -20°F to -40°F with wind chill. Short, warm summers in the 80s. Very windy year-round. Minimal precipitation.
Best Cities to Move to in North Dakota
Pros and Cons of Living in North Dakota
Pros
- +No state income tax as of 2024
- +Very affordable housing and cost of living
- +Extremely low unemployment and strong job market
- +Safe communities with low crime rates
Cons
- -Extremely harsh winters with dangerous wind chill
- -Very remote with limited entertainment and dining options
- -Small population with limited diversity
- -Oil boom-and-bust cycles affect western ND economy
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to move to North Dakota?
A local move within North Dakota averages $600–$1,100. Moving from neighboring states like Minnesota or Montana costs $800–$2,000. Cross-country moves to North Dakota typically run $3,500–$7,000. The remote location means fewer carriers serve the state, which can increase costs.
Is Fargo a good city to move to?
Fargo is the largest city in North Dakota (about 130,000 people, 250,000 metro) and has become a legitimate small city with a growing tech sector, craft brewery scene, and vibrant downtown. Home prices are very affordable (median around $280,000). North Dakota State University drives cultural activities. The job market is strong with low unemployment. The main downside is the brutal winter weather.
How cold does it actually get in North Dakota?
North Dakota is one of the coldest states in the lower 48. January average temperatures in Fargo are highs of 16°F and lows of -3°F, with wind chill regularly reaching -30°F to -40°F. Bismarck is even colder. The state averages 40–50 inches of snow. Winter lasts roughly from October through April. Block heaters for cars are standard, and the state is well-equipped for cold weather operations.
What about the oil industry in North Dakota?
The Bakken oil region in western North Dakota (centered around Williston) experienced a massive boom in the 2010s that transformed the state's economy. While the initial frenzy has stabilized, oil production remains significant. Western ND towns can be expensive during booms and depressed during downturns. Most residents in Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks are largely unaffected by oil industry fluctuations.
What are taxes like in North Dakota?
North Dakota eliminated its state income tax in 2024, joining states like Texas and Florida. Property taxes average 0.94%, which is close to the national average. Sales tax is 5% plus local additions. The state has a substantial savings fund from oil revenues. Overall, North Dakota now has one of the lowest tax burdens in the nation, combined with extremely affordable living costs.