North Dakota demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
784,841
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$76,657/yr
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
377,281
0.6% year-over-year change

North Dakota population

How many people live in North Dakota

North Dakota is home to 784,841 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.2% of North Dakota locals are male, and 48.8% are female.

Total population
784,841
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.2%
402,122
Female
48.8%
382,719
Value Percent YoY change
Male 402,122 51.2% 0.8%
Female 382,719 48.8% 0.7%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in North Dakota is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.7% are children under 15, then 14.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.4% of the population, while another 21.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.7%
15 to 24
14.9%
25 to 44
27.4%
45 to 64
21.5%
Over 65
16.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 154,761 19.7% -0.7%
15 to 24 116,675 14.9% 2.0%
25 to 44 214,814 27.4% 0.9%
45 to 64 168,737 21.5% -0.9%
Over 65 129,854 16.6% 3.0%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In North Dakota, 94.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83% of locals are Caucasian, 3.4% are African American and 1.7% have Asian roots. Another 4.4% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.1%
Non-citizens
2.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 739,044 94.2% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 24,129 3.1% 5.2%
Non-citizens 21,668 2.8% 7.2%
Racial breakdown
White
83%
Black or African American
3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
4.4%
Asian
1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
5.9%
Other
1.5%
Value Percent
White 651,072 83%
Black or African American 26,784 3.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 34,610 4.4%
Asian 13,062 1.7%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 980 0.1%
Two or more races 46,523 5.9%
Other 11,810 1.5%

Households in North Dakota

A peek inside North Dakota households

North Dakota has 331,063 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.3% are families, while the remaining 42.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
331,063
1.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
141,221
Family households
189,842
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 141,221 42.7% 3.2%
Family households 189,842 57.3% 0.8%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in North Dakota

The housing landscape of North Dakota

North Dakota's housing consists of 377,281 units, with 56.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 6.3% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 6.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
377,281
0.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 214,044 56.7%
1 unit, attached 23,865 6.3%
2 units 7,104 1.9%
3 or 4 units 12,487 3.3%
5 to 9 units 14,485 3.8%
10 to 19 units 19,314 5.1%
20 to 49 units 39,261 10.4%
50 or more units 21,509 5.7%
Mobile home 24,958 6.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 254 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
6,638
55.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in North Dakota

In North Dakota, the median construction year is 1982. About 11.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 18.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 43,263 11.5% -2.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 13,479 3.6% -5.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 30,675 8.1% -2.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 30,688 8.1% 0.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 62,201 16.5% -0.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 40,022 10.6% 1.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 35,510 9.4% -2.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 45,151 12% 3.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 69,654 18.5% 2.4%
Built in 2020 or later 6,638 1.8% 55.4%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

North Dakota occupancy rates

Out of the 331,063 occupied housing units in North Dakota, 62.8% are owner-occupied, while 37.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
331,063
1.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
122,979
Owner occupied
208,084
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 122,979 37.2% 3.4%
Owner occupied 208,084 62.8% 0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
12.3%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

North Dakota housing costs

Housing costs in North Dakota come to a median of $986 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $954.

Median housing costs per month
$986/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in North Dakota
$954/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in North Dakota

North Dakota education at a glance

About 30.1% of the population in North Dakota went to high school, while 24.7% pursued college studies. Another 13% earned an associate degree and 21.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 13,015 2.2% 0.1%
High school diploma 180,892 30.1% 0.5%
College diploma 148,105 24.7% 1.2%
Associate degree 77,772 13% 0.0%
Bachelor's degree 130,162 21.7% 2.1%
Graduate degree 50,434 8.4% 1.0%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in North Dakota

How much people earn in North Dakota

The average annual household income in North Dakota was $101,793 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $76,657, reflecting a +0.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in North Dakota
$101,793/year
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in North Dakota
$76,657/year
0.9% year-over-year change

North Dakota income by age

In North Dakota, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $88,212. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $96,314 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,328, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,526 in earnings. Overall, 89.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,328 1.7%
25 - 44 $88,212 1.3%
45 - 64 $96,314 1.8%
Over 65 $55,526 1.0%
Above poverty level
667,046
Below poverty level
80,618
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 667,046 89.2% 0.4%
Below poverty level 80,618 10.8% 2.9%

Employment in North Dakota

Workforce and job types in North Dakota

The job market in North Dakota is powered by 406,256 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.5% run their own businesses, 60.6% are employed by private companies, and 17.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
406,256
0.4% year-over-year change
White collar
309,668
Blue collar
96,588
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 309,668 76.2% 0.8%
Blue collar 96,588 23.8% -0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
11.5%
Private companies
60.6%
Governmental workers
17.3%
Not for profit companies
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 46,645 11.5% 1.0%
Private companies 246,329 60.6% 0.3%
Governmental workers 70,331 17.3% 0.6%
Not for profit companies 42,951 10.6% -0.2%
Unemployment rate
2.8%
-2.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in North Dakota stands at 2.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in North Dakota

How people get around in North Dakota

Commuting methods vary: 86.8% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 353,562 86.8% -0.4%
Taxicab 452 0.1% 35.3%
Bus or trolleybus 1,210 0.3% -4.1%
Subway or elevated 32 0% N/A
Railroad 32 0% -23.8%
Ferryboat 111 0% -13.9%
Motorcycle 743 0.2% -0.1%
Bicycle 1,093 0.3% 6.2%
Walk 13,142 3.2% 2.8%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

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FAQs about North Dakota demographics 

What is the total population of North Dakota?

North Dakota has a total population of 784,841 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in North Dakota?

The gender ratio in North Dakota is as follows:
  • 51.2% males (402,122 residents)
  • 48.8% females (382,719 residents)

What is the median age in North Dakota?

The median age in North Dakota is 35.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in North Dakota?

The age distribution in North Dakota is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.7% (154,761 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.9% (116,675 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.4% (214,814 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.5% (168,737 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.6% (129,854 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of North Dakota?

The racial and ethnic makeup of North Dakota is as follows:
  • White: 83% (651,072 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.4% (26,784 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 4.4% (34,610 residents)
  • Asian: 1.7% (13,062 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (980 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.9% (46,523 residents)
  • Other: 1.5% (11,810 residents)

What percentage of the population in North Dakota are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.2% of the population in North Dakota.

How many housing units are there in North Dakota?

There are 377,281 housing units in North Dakota, reflecting a +0.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in North Dakota and what is the average household size?

North Dakota has a total of 331,063 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in North Dakota?

North Dakota has a median household income of $76,657, representing a +0.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for North Dakota?

The employment rate is 97.2% in North Dakota, with a workforce of 406,256 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.2% (309,668 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.8% (96,588 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.5% (46,645 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.6% (246,329 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.3% (70,331 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.6% (42,951 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025