Thinking about moving to North Dakota? The state has the 6th-lowest cost of living and low tax burdens on individuals. Plus, with growing jobs in oil and gas, construction, healthcare, and agriculture sectors, it is one of the most desirable states to move to in 2025.
But the move comes with trade-offs. The state is prone to several natural disasters, including floods, droughts, and severe winter storms. Still, many are choosing cities like Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks for lower living costs and a better quality of life.
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AT A GLANCE:
- North Dakota offers growing jobs in oil and gas, construction, healthcare, and agriculture sectors.
- With its housing costs 22.7% lower than the national average, North Dakota ranks as the 11th most affordable state for housing.
- The cost of living in North Dakota is 11% lower than the national average, which is one of the lowest in the country.
- With an individual income tax rate ranging from 0%-2.5% of your annual income, the state has one of the lowest tax burdens for individuals.
- Expect to pay between $2,200 and $6,400 for your move, depending on how far you’re moving and the size of your belongings.
- North Dakota has a continental climate. Summers are typically short, but hot, while winters are long and snowy.
3 Reasons to Move to North Dakota
Why settle for just sunny beaches when you can also enjoy the high life? Browse through over thousands of mansions, high-rise penthouses, and spacious luxury homes for sale in North Dakota, and enjoy the finest the state has to offer.
1. Affordable housing in North Dakota
North Dakota ranks as the 11th-most affordable state for housing. The state has a median home price of $281K, which is 22.7% lower than the national average. Plus, rent in North Dakota is 45% less expensive than the US average.
However, recent trends show that the number of homes for sale in North Dakota has decreased by 26.3%, and there is a 7.7% rise in the median home price. Low inventory levels and rising prices make it a highly competitive market for homebuyers.
2. Jobs in North Dakota
North Dakota’s robust economy has 22,000 new job openings in 2025, and aims to add 28,919 new jobs by the end of 2032. Oil and gas, construction, healthcare, and agriculture are among the fastest-growing job sectors. Here’s a breakdown:
- Oil and Gas: With over $48.7 billion in revenue and over 63,700 jobs across the state, the oil and gas sector is one of the largest contributors to the state’s GDP. Jobs like roustabouts, lease operators, drillers, and rig managers are in high demand.
- Construction: With 3,800+ establishments, the construction sector supports over 28,600 jobs in North Dakota. On average, a construction worker earns $55,373 yearly. Jobs like electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and welders are in high demand.
- Healthcare: With 52 hospitals and over 70,000 workers across the state, the healthcare sector contributes $5.1 billion to the state’s GDP. Jobs like nurse practitioners, physician assistants, physical therapists, and occupational therapists are in high demand.
- Agriculture: The sector contributes around $41.3 billion to the state’s GDP and supports 123,360 jobs across the state. On average, an agriculture worker earns $50,241 yearly. Jobs like equipment operator, laborer, and ranch manager are in high demand.
3. Natural Environment
With 14 state parks and 2,200 miles of trails, North Dakota is filled with natural landscapes and a serene environment. This includes natural wonders like Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Maah Daah Hey Trail, and some of the best bird-watching spots in the country.
Lake Sakakawea, the third-largest reservoir in the US, is an excellent place for fishing, boating, and camping. Plus, North Dakota’s clear, dark skies are perfect for stargazing and viewing the Northern Lights, particularly in the winter months.
Pros and Cons of Living in North Dakota
Here are the drawbacks and benefits of living in North Dakota:
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. You will have easy access to growing jobs in oil and gas, construction, healthcare, and agriculture sectors. | 1. Public transportation outside of major cities is sparse. Owning a car for daily errands is a necessity here. |
| 2. The cost of living in North Dakota is 11% lower than the national average. Plus, housing also costs less. | 2. The winters in North Dakota are harsh. With temperatures ranging from -13°F-18°F, most of the state receives heavy snowfall. |
| 3. With over 14 state parks and 2,200 miles of trails, outdoor opportunities are abundant. | 3. With just 11 people per square mile, its low population density can sometimes feel isolating. |
Things to Know Before Moving to North Dakota📌
Here are the things to keep in mind before relocating to North Dakota:
1. Cost of Living in North Dakota
The cost of living in North Dakota is 11% lower than the national average. So, you’ll save on expenses like renting, utilities, and food, though transportation and healthcare can get expensive.
The Peace Garden State is an appealing option compared to more popular states like California and New York, where living costs are 58% and 30% above the national average.
2. Infrastructure and Transportation
North Dakota faces several challenges with its aging and overburdened infrastructure. 18% of the roads are in poor or fair condition, and over 420 bridges across the state are structurally deficient. Additionally, the state needs $3.2 billion to improve its water infrastructure.
State officials are actively working to improve its road and water infrastructure. North Dakota is set to receive $1.9 billion over five years in federal funding to improve its highways and roads.
3. Climate in North Dakota
North Dakota has a continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are typically short, but hot, with temperatures ranging from 62°F-83°F. In contrast, winters are long and cold, with temperatures ranging from -13°F-18°F.
However, the state is prone to several natural disasters, including floods, droughts, and severe winter storms. It’s crucial to check FEMA-designated high-risk zones and local guidelines in case of an emergency, before moving to North Dakota.
4. Laws and Regulations
- Vehicle and Driver’s License Registration: After moving to North Dakota, you have to register your vehicle within 90 days and obtain a North Dakota driver’s license within 60 days. You will need proof of residency, insurance, and title documents for registration.
- Moving to North Dakota with a Gun: No registration or background checks are required to buy or own a firearm. However, to carry a firearm open or concealed, you will require a Concealed Weapon License (CWL). The minimum age to get a CWL is 18 years old.
- Recreational Marijuana: Use of marijuana for recreation is not legal in North Dakota. Possession or consumption of any amount can result in $1,500-$20,000 in penalties and 30 days to 10 years in prison.
- Pet Registration Laws: There are no statewide laws requiring pet registration and vaccination in North Dakota. However, several cities have their own pet registration and vaccination laws. Visit your city website to learn about pet registration laws in your area.
5. Tax Burden in North Dakota
North Dakota has one of the lowest income tax burdens in the country. Here’s a breakdown:
- Income Tax in North Dakota: North Dakota has a progressive income tax ranging from 0%-2.5% of your annual income, which is one of the lowest in the country. Additionally, the state offers $15K and $30K standard deductions for single filers and families.
- Sales Tax in North Dakota: The state levies a 5% sales tax on goods and services. However, cities often levy an additional local sales tax of 0%-3.5%. This additional tax makes the effective sales tax rate 5%–8.5%, depending on the city you are moving to.
- Property Tax in North Dakota: North Dakota levies a 0.94% property tax on the assessed value of your house, which is slightly higher than the national average of 0.90%.
How to Move to North Dakota?
Before buying a house in North Dakota, follow this step-by-step guide for a seamless move:
1. How to Plan Your Logistics?
- If you want to skip all the heavy lifting, consider hiring a professional mover. You can expect to pay around $99 per hour. However, this amount can vary depending on the size of your belongings and the distance.
- If you want to DIY, renting a truck is a better option. The average cost to rent a mid-sized truck with a load capacity of 4,000 to 6,000 lbs ranges between $40 and $80 per day. Be sure to factor in additional charges for mileage, fuel, and insurance.
2. How to Set Up Utilities?
Getting your utilities set up is a straightforward process in North Dakota:
- Electricity and Gas: In North Dakota, electricity is provided by investor-owned utilities like Montana-Dakota Utilities Co., and rural cooperatives like Capital Electric Cooperative. Montana-Dakota Utilities is the largest natural gas provider in North Dakota.
- Water and Sewer: These services in North Dakota are usually managed by the local municipality’s utility department and rural or regional water districts. Visit your city website to find out the appropriate service provider for your area.
- Internet and Cable: Midco, Sparklight, and Dakota Carrier Network are the largest internet and cable service providers in North Dakota. Costs typically range from $35 to $80. Visit their respective websites to know more about availability in your area.
3. How to Enroll Your Kids in Schools in North Dakota?
Most schools in North Dakota offer online registration:
- For Kindergarten: Children must be at least 5 years old for kindergarten enrollment, and 7 years old for enrollment in first grade by July 31. You will need the child’s birth certificate, vaccination records, proof of residency, and a photo ID.
- For Older Kids: You’ll need all the above-mentioned documents, in addition to transcripts and a withdrawal form from their previous school. If your kids are high school athletes, check their athletic eligibility with the new school before enrolling.
- Transfer and Special Cases: Transfers and special cases in North Dakota are usually managed by the local school district office. You can visit their website or directly reach out to the school district office for assistance in the process.
4. How to Transfer Your Job or Find a New One?
- Work From Home: Around 16% of employees in North Dakota work from home. If you are someone who works remotely, just ask your employer about any state-specific tax and employment laws.
- Find a New Job: Job Service North Dakota is a state-run platform that offers career guidance, skill and aptitude assessments, and counselling for job seekers. You can also visit job portals like Indeed and LinkedIn to search and apply for jobs in your city.
5. How to Find the Perfect House?
The North Dakota housing market is highly competitive for homebuyers. The number of houses available for sale is reduced by 26.3% compared to last year. Plus, with a 97.5% sale-to-list price ratio, homebuyers have limited room for negotiation.
- In popular cities like Fargo, Bismarck, and Grand Forks, the average rent is around $1,140. It typically depends on the neighborhood you’re moving to and the available amenities.
- If you plan to buy a home in a popular city, homes for sale in Fargo cost around $315K. Meanwhile, cities like Oakes and Valley City offer more affordable options, with median home prices of $173K and $195K respectively.
Should I Move to North Dakota?
Yes, you should definitely move to North Dakota. The state combines new opportunities, a good quality of life, and friendly communities. However, relocating to North Dakota isn’t easy. It takes time, careful planning, and effort to find the perfect place to call your home.
With Houzeo, North Dakota’s best home-buying website, buying a house in the Peace Garden State is simple. You can browse through the latest listings, save your favorites, schedule showings, and submit offers, all at your fingertips.
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Data Sources
To help you make a smart move to North Dakota, we analyzed key data points that impact relocation costs, lifestyle, and employment prospects. We’ve sourced reliable, up-to-date data across the following categories:
- Statistical Atlas: Major employers
- Zillow: Average rent, Median home price
- MoveBuddha: Estimated moving costs
- Thisoldhouse: DIY truck rental rates, Average cost of moving
By backing our insights with real numbers, we give you a clear picture of what it really takes to relocate to North Dakota, long before the moving boxes are packed.
