North Dakota

Beaches

Cost of Living: Moderate

Train Access: Yes (amtrak, very safe)

Bus Service: Yes (MATBUS, Bis-Man Transit, Cities Area Transit, relatively safe)

North Dakota, located in the Upper Midwest region of the United States, is known for its vast plains, rolling hills, and prairie landscapes. It is the 19th largest state by area but one of the least populated, offering a sense of spaciousness and tranquility. The state's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from agriculture, oil extraction, and energy production. North Dakota is home to the Bakken shale formation, which has played a pivotal role in the state's economic growth due to oil extraction. The state's agricultural sector is robust, producing a variety of crops such as wheat, soybeans, corn, and canola, as well as livestock. Culturally, North Dakota has a rich Native American heritage, with several reservations and historical sites that reflect the traditions and history of tribes such as the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara. The state also celebrates its Scandinavian and German roots, evident in its festivals, cuisine, and architecture. The climate in North Dakota is characterized by cold winters and warm summers, with potential for extreme weather conditions such as blizzards and thunderstorms. Outdoor activities are plentiful, with opportunities for fishing, hunting, hiking, and biking, especially in areas like Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which honors the 26th president's conservation efforts. North Dakota's educational system includes several public and private institutions, with North Dakota State University and the University of North Dakota being the most prominent. The state also has a community-oriented spirit, with small towns and cities fostering close-knit communities. Despite its rural nature, North Dakota offers a range of urban experiences in cities like Fargo, the largest city in the state, and Bismarck, the state capital. These cities provide cultural attractions, dining, shopping, and entertainment options, while still maintaining a small-town feel. Overall, North Dakota is a state that balances the tranquility of its natural landscapes with the vitality of its growing cities and industries

Expat Lifestyle

Private Schools

Family Friendly

C+

Single Friendly

A-

Senior Friendly

A-

Crime

B-

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Weather

Cost of Living

B+

Recreation

C-

Nightlife

Restaurants

Cost of Living

The cost of living in North Dakota is generally considered moderate, with housing costs below the national average and affordable daily expenses

Weather

North Dakota experiences a continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm to hot summers. The state is known for its temperature extremes, with wide variations between seasons. Winters can be harsh with heavy snowfall and temperatures that can drop well below freezing, while summers are typically warm and can sometimes be humid. Spring and fall are generally mild but can be unpredictable with rapid changes in weather conditions.

Educational System North Dakota

The educational system in North Dakota is structured to provide quality education to students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Children typically start kindergarten at the age of five or six and complete their education with 12th grade at around the age of eighteen. The state follows a K-12 education model, which is divided into elementary, middle, and high school levels. Elementary school usually includes kindergarten through fifth grade, middle school comprises sixth through eighth grade, and high school consists of ninth through twelfth grade. North Dakota places a strong emphasis on standardized testing to assess student performance and school accountability. The state has adopted the Common Core State Standards to ensure that students receive a consistent and high-quality education that prepares them for college and careers. Additionally, North Dakota offers various programs for gifted and talented students, as well as special education services for those with disabilities. Parents moving to North Dakota from another country can expect a welcoming environment for their children, with schools that strive to provide a balanced education encompassing academics, arts, and athletics.

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Best Places to Live in North Dakota

Discover the top-ranked towns in North Dakota. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.

Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.

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