11 Largest Cities in North Dakota [2025]

North Dakota may be known for its wide-open prairies and rugged natural beauty, but its cities offer a vibrant mix of culture, opportunity, and community. The largest cities in North Dakota each bring something unique to the table, from bustling college towns and thriving business hubs to small, charming communities.

Whether you're drawn to the dynamic energy of Fargo or the scenic beauty of smaller cities like Devils Lake, North Dakota's urban centers offer diverse lifestyles to fit every need. In this guide, we’ll explore the 11 largest cities in North Dakota to give you a closer look at what makes each one a great place to live.

All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates, which is available for download. Transit scores come from Walk Score, and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census Bureau website.

1. 11 Largest Cities in North Dakota

1. Fargo

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $801
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $937
• Population: 125,990
• Median household income: $66,029
• Walk score: 45
• Transit score: 24
• Bike score: 49
• Map of Fargo

If you’re looking for an affordable urban experience without sacrificing quality of life, we recommend taking a look at the biggest city in North Dakota—Fargo. With one-bedroom apartments averaging just $801 monthly, Fargo's cost of living sits well below the national average, making it possible to enjoy city amenities without breaking the bank.

Life in Fargo revolves around four distinct seasons, with residents fully embracing both the summer and winter months. While January can dip to subzero temperatures, locals take the cold in stride, hitting cross-country ski trails at converted golf courses or joining unique winter activities like snow yoga. Come summer, mild July days draw people to the city's network of parks along the Red River, where you'll find everything from dog parks to paddleboarding spots.

The Downtown District pulses with craft breweries, farmers markets at Dike East Park, and a walkable layout that maintains a close-knit community feel despite the city's size. Sports fans rally around North Dakota State University's Bison football team at the Fargodome, while art enthusiasts explore collections at the Plains Art Museum or catch seasonal events like the Winter Blues Festival.

All in all, you’ll never feel bored in the largest city in North Dakota.

Check out our listings in Fargo.

2. Bismarck

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,204
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,434
• Population: 73,662
• Median household income: $77,608
• Walk score: 35
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 38
• Map of Bismarck

From the banks of the Missouri River rises Bismarck, North Dakota's capital city. This tight-knit community with a strong German heritage takes pride in its extensive park system, spanning 2,300 acres of public land. Winter warriors might brave temperatures dropping to -45 degrees Fahrenheit and annual cumulative snowfall of over 100 inches at their most extreme, but they've turned it into an advantage. In 2007, nearly 9,000 residents came together to set the world record for the most snow angels made simultaneously.

The city's commitment to community shines through its year-round events and fundraisers, from the Great American Bike Race, which supports children receiving care at Sanford Children's Campus, to the beloved Papa's Pumpkin Patch autumn festivities.

As one of the most exciting North Dakota cities, Bismarck offers entertainment options at the Bismarck Event Center, which hosts everything from hockey games and Broadway shows to craft fairs, while five golf courses and the Missouri River's recreational opportunities keep outdoor enthusiasts busy.

This balanced lifestyle, combined with strong healthcare resources like advanced NICU facilities and an active support network through organizations like the Ronald McDonald House, makes Bismarck particularly attractive for young families.

Check out our listings in Bismarck.

3. Grand Forks

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $867
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,088
• Population: 59,169
• Median household income: $63,838
• Walk score: 47
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 62
• Map of Grand Forks

Grand Forks offers an exceptional quality of life without breaking the bank. The youthful energy of the University of North Dakota flows through the downtown streets, where local craft breweries, coffee shops, and restaurants create a vibrant social scene against the backdrop of the Red River.

The 2,200-acre Greenway trail system forms the outdoor heart of the community, weaving together parks, disc golf courses, and fishing spots with 57 miles of dedicated biking trails. In summer, residents take to the Red River and Red Lake River for kayaking and paddleboarding, while winter transforms these waterways into destinations for ice fishing and snowmobiling.

Just 22 miles west, Turtle River State Park's 775 acres burst with fall colors and year-round recreation opportunities. Beyond its natural attractions, Grand Forks stands as a leader in technology and agriculture, home to the country's first undergraduate unmanned air system (drone) pilot program and some of the richest farming soil in America.

Overall, it might just be the best North Dakota city for both tech professionals and agricultural entrepreneurs.

Check out our listings in Grand Forks.

4. West Fargo

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,285
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,670
• Population: 38,626
• Median household income: $96,877
• Walk score: 29
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 37
• Map of West Fargo

Combining the charm of small-town living with big-city amenities, West Fargo has transformed from its humble beginnings as a meatpacking company town into one of the biggest cities in North Dakota. The city's population has surged toward 40,000 residents, drawn by excellent schools, world-class park facilities, and a diverse range of housing options that fit every budget and lifestyle need.

Despite its rapid growth and proximity to Fargo, West Fargo maintains its distinct identity and strong sense of community. This balance makes it particularly attractive to families seeking top-rated educational opportunities and young professionals who want easy access to urban amenities while enjoying the benefits of a close-knit neighborhood atmosphere.

Check out our listings in West Fargo.

5. Williston

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,085
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,225
• Population: 29,160
• Median household income: $84,309
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Williston

Beyond its reputation as an oil boom town, Williston has evolved into a dynamic community where outdoor recreation and family life take center stage. The expanding trail system invites residents to explore the city by foot or bike. During winter months, locals embrace the cold with sledding and ice fishing, while warmer weather brings the popular Summer Nights on Main block parties that light up downtown.

The city's growth has ushered in an increasingly diverse dining scene, where traditional steakhouses now share the spotlight with authentic Mexican eateries, Thai curry houses, and Japanese steakhouses. The state-of-the-art Williston Area Recreation Center (ARC) serves as a community hub, offering everything from pickleball courts to fitness classes, while new schools and daycare facilities continue to open their doors to serve the expanding population. For those seeking a role in a developing city in North Dakota, Williston offers the rare opportunity to be part of a city actively writing its next chapter.

Check out our listings in Williston.

6. Dickinson

• Starting rent for an apartment in Dickinson: $650
• Population: 25,679
• Median household income: $76,964
• Walk score: 35
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 36
• Map of Dickinson

Less than 40 miles from Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Dickinson blends small-town charm with outdoor adventure and modern amenities. The scenic Maah Daah Hey Trail winds through the nearby Little Missouri National Grassland, offering residents endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding among the dramatic Badlands landscape. Summer evenings come alive with Badlands Big Sticks baseball games, while the vibrant downtown district features fine dining establishments, a craft brewery, and even a local vineyard and winery.

The city's robust economy, powered by the Bakken Supply, CHI Saint Alexius Health, and Dickinson State University, provides career opportunities across multiple sectors. This economic fortitude and educational strength make Dickinson particularly attractive for families and professionals seeking a balance between career growth and quality of life.

Check out our listings in Dickinson.

7. Mandan

• Starting rent for an apartment in Mandan: $750
• Population: 24,206
• Median household income: $75,966
• Walk score: 25
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 29
• Map of Mandan

Mandan is one of the many major cities in North Dakota that brings the spirit of the Midwest to life. Sitting along the Missouri River and the eastern border of Morton County, this city is perfect for anyone who loves both nature and neighborly love. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park is a local gem where you can explore the Custer House or walk through On-A-Slant Village along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, where you’ll find a direct connection to the region’s storied past. When winter rolls around, Huff Hills Ski Area becomes a favorite spot for residents looking to hit the slopes without traveling far from home.

Beyond history and nature, people in Mandan also know how to have fun! Families flock to Raging Rivers Waterpark during the summer, while golf enthusiasts have their pick between Mandan Municipal Golf Course and Prairie West Golf Course. The Dacotah Speedway revs up excitement for racing fans, and if you’re more into a laid-back day on the water, Missouri River Kayak Rentals offers—you guessed it—kayak rentals. Plus, with the Prairie Knights Casino and Resort just a scenic drive 50 miles south, weekend getaways are always within reach.

Living in Mandan means taking advantage of the simple pleasures of small-town living with a wide range of activities just across the Missouri in Bismarck.

Check out our listings in Mandan.

8. Jamestown

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,220
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,735
• Population: 15,849
• Median household income: $54,809
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Jamestown

Jamestown, North Dakota, is a small city with a big personality, best known for its iconic World's Largest Buffalo Monument towering over the plains. But beyond this famous landmark, Jamestown offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. It's the birthplace of renowned Western writer Louis L’Amour, and you can explore the landscapes that inspired his stories by visiting Frontier Village. The city also embraces its frontier roots at Fort Seward Military Post, offering a glimpse into the region's past.

For those who love the outdoors, Split Rock Trail and Overlook Trail provide scenic hiking opportunities, while Little Britches Pond is perfect for a peaceful afternoon fishing with family. The area’s wide-open spaces still echo the spirit of the Old West, and even today, you might spot buffalo roaming the plains. Meanwhile, local spots like The Melted Crayon Gift Shop and Hand Pick’d Boutique add a touch of small-town charm, offering unique shopping experiences you won’t find elsewhere.

Living in Jamestown means embracing the warmth and hospitality of small-town America while enjoying easy access to cultural and recreational activities.

Check out our listings in Jamestown.

9. Wahpeton

• Starting rent for an apartment in Wahpeton: $2,150
• Population: 8,007
• Median household income: $57,417
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Wahpeton

Nestled in southeastern North Dakota, Wahpeton offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and industrial opportunity. Home to the North Dakota State College of Science, the city attracts both students and professionals, with job prospects in manufacturing, agriculture, education, and healthcare. Major employers like Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative and WCCO Belting keep the economy thriving, while Fargo, which is just under 50 miles away, adds to the fun. Across the Red River, the neighboring town of Breckenridge, Minnesota, extends the community vibe, making the area feel even more connected.

When you want to get outside in Wahpeton, you can go kayaking along the Red River, hit the trails, or visit the unique 18-hole golf course that straddles North Dakota and Minnesota. The Chahinkapa Zoo is a local favorite, home to rare southern white rhinoceroses and more. For a touch of culture, the city’s fine art gallery doubles as a visitor center, and downtown, you’ll find upscale restaurants and craft breweries, some housed in beautifully restored historic buildings. From quality schools to great healthcare and a stellar community, it’s easy to see why Wahpeton is one of the most popular cities in North Dakota.

Check out our listings in Wahpeton.

10. Devils Lake

• Starting rent for an apartment in Devils Lake: $550
• Population: 7,192
• Median household income: $42,755
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Devils Lake

Devils Lake, North Dakota, is a vibrant community built around the largest natural body of water in the state. Known as the Perch Capital of the World, the lake spans over 190,000 acres, attracting anglers from across the country to fish for walleye, northern pike, and white bass. In the fall, the area transforms into a haven for hunters as hundreds of thousands of waterfowl migrate through, making it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Devils Lake also boasts a strong public school system with multiple elementary schools, a middle school, and a high school, while Lake Region State College offers higher education opportunities and contributes to the town’s energetic, community-driven atmosphere. Paired with modern medical facilities, a robust park system, and a variety of unique shops and local businesses, Devils Lake offers an active lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty.

Check out our listings in Devils Lake.

11. Minot

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,015
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,125
• Population: 5,017
• Median household income: $65,571
• Walk score: 37
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 34
• Map of Minot

Much of Minot, North Dakota, is shaped in part by the presence of Minot Air Force Base. The base brings a diverse population to the city, fostering a sense of togetherness that’s evident in local events, festivals, and volunteer projects. The city shines during events like the North Dakota State Fair, where concerts, rodeos, and cultural exhibits highlight the state’s rich heritage. Plus, there are plenty of parks to explore, like Oak Park and Roosevelt Park, or you can take the kids to the Roosevelt Park Zoo for family-friendly fun.

The cost of living is about 15% lower than the national average, yet still diverse enough to offer job opportunities in agriculture, oil, healthcare, and retail. Minot State University anchors the city’s education system, offering an array of degree programs.

Check out our listings in Minot.

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