Fargo, ND demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
131,627
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,998/yr
1.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
63,807
1.0% year-over-year change

Fargo population

How many people live in Fargo

Fargo is home to 131,627 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.3% of Fargo locals are male, and 49.7% are female.

Total population
131,627
2.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.3%
66,259
Female
49.7%
65,368
Value Percent YoY change
Male 66,259 50.3% 1.7%
Female 65,368 49.7% 2.2%
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 Fargo is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.9% are children under 15, then 20.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30.5% of the population, while another 18.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
31.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.9%
15 to 24
20.4%
25 to 44
30.5%
45 to 64
18.8%
Over 65
13.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 22,287 16.9% 4.1%
15 to 24 26,845 20.4% 1.5%
25 to 44 40,174 30.5% 2.8%
45 to 64 24,811 18.8% 0.8%
Over 65 17,510 13.3% -0.0%
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 Fargo, 89.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.5% of locals are Caucasian, 8.6% are African American and 4.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5%
Non-citizens
5.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 117,677 89.4% 2.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 6,582 5% 2.9%
Non-citizens 7,368 5.6% -4.9%
Racial breakdown
White
79.5%
Black or African American
8.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
4.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.5%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 104,644 79.5%
Black or African American 11,316 8.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,283 1%
Asian 5,351 4.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 4 0%
Two or more races 7,196 5.5%
Other 1,833 1.4%

Households in Fargo

A peek inside Fargo households

Fargo has 59,970 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46.8% are families, while the remaining 53.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
59,970
2.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
31,884
Family households
28,086
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 31,884 53.2% 3.0%
Family households 28,086 46.8% 1.4%
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 Fargo

The housing landscape of Fargo

Fargo's housing consists of 63,807 units, with 34.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9% 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 1.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
63,807
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 22,015 34.5%
1 unit, attached 5,759 9%
2 units 1,162 1.8%
3 or 4 units 2,158 3.4%
5 to 9 units 2,906 4.6%
10 to 19 units 5,260 8.2%
20 to 49 units 14,695 23%
50 or more units 8,937 14%
Mobile home 915 1.4%
Homes built since 2020
1,204
51.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Fargo

In Fargo, the median construction year is 1991. About 8.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 19.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,314 8.3% 7.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,455 2.3% -7.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 4,784 7.5% -2.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,946 6.2% 6.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 8,155 12.8% -5.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 7,482 11.7% 3.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 9,227 14.5% 0.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 9,588 15% 2.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 12,652 19.8% -1.3%
Built in 2020 or later 1,204 1.9% 51.5%
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.

Fargo occupancy rates

Out of the 59,970 occupied housing units in Fargo, 43.7% are owner-occupied, while 56.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
59,970
2.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
33,770
Owner occupied
26,200
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 33,770 56.3% 3.1%
Owner occupied 26,200 43.7% 1.2%
Unoccupied housing units
6.0%
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.

Fargo housing costs

Housing costs in Fargo come to a median of $1,026 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $946.

Median housing costs per month
$1,026/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 Fargo
$946/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 Fargo

Fargo education at a glance

About 23.1% of the population in Fargo went to high school, while 26% pursued college studies. Another 11.7% earned an associate degree and 26.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,547 1.5% -15.7%
High school diploma 24,283 23.1% 2.4%
College diploma 27,378 26% 1.8%
Associate degree 12,293 11.7% 4.9%
Bachelor's degree 27,711 26.3% 0.0%
Graduate degree 12,114 11.5% 2.1%
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 Fargo

How much people earn in Fargo

The average annual household income in Fargo was $92,382 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,998, reflecting a +1.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Fargo
$92,382/year
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Fargo
$66,998/year
1.5% year-over-year change

Fargo income by age

In Fargo, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $70,204. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,126 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $35,792, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,225 in earnings. Overall, 87.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $35,792 -4.2%
25 - 44 $70,204 2.1%
45 - 64 $86,126 5.8%
Over 65 $60,225 -2.7%
Above poverty level
108,155
Below poverty level
15,942
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 108,155 87.2% 1.7%
Below poverty level 15,942 12.8% 2.3%

Average renter income in Fargo

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Fargo, their median household income was $43,771 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 25.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$43,771
Rent-to-income ratio
25.9%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Fargo

Workforce and job types in Fargo

The job market in Fargo is powered by 76,778 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 81.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.5% run their own businesses, 68% are employed by private companies, and 13.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
76,778
1.0% year-over-year change
White collar
62,757
Blue collar
14,021
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 62,757 81.7% 2.1%
Blue collar 14,021 18.3% -3.9%
Employer type
Self employees
6.5%
Private companies
68%
Governmental workers
13.9%
Not for profit companies
11.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 4,999 6.5% -3.5%
Private companies 52,177 68% 1.0%
Governmental workers 10,642 13.9% 1.2%
Not for profit companies 8,960 11.7% 3.0%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
-0.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Fargo stands at 3.8%, 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 Fargo

How people get around in Fargo

Commuting methods vary: 83.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.7% 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 63,424 83.6% -0.6%
Taxicab 111 0.2% 177.5%
Bus or trolleybus 378 0.5% -31.3%
Railroad 32 0% -23.8%
Ferryboat 32 0% -21.9%
Motorcycle 138 0.2% 51.6%
Bicycle 269 0.4% 11.2%
Walk 2,775 3.7% 7.3%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Fargo by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
58102 32,912 14,968 $59,533 $84,785
58103 48,796 23,776 $58,801 $80,304
58104 49,168 21,882 $85,747 $115,569
58105 2,825 20 $123,636 $0

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FAQs about Fargo demographics 

What is the total population of Fargo?

Fargo has a total population of 131,627 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 +2.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Fargo?

The gender ratio in Fargo is as follows:
  • 50.3% males (66,259 residents)
  • 49.7% females (65,368 residents)

What is the median age in Fargo?

The median age in Fargo is 31.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Fargo?

The age distribution in Fargo is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.9% (22,287 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 20.4% (26,845 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30.5% (40,174 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.8% (24,811 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.3% (17,510 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Fargo?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Fargo is as follows:
  • White: 79.5% (104,644 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.6% (11,316 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (1,283 residents)
  • Asian: 4.1% (5,351 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (4 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.5% (7,196 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (1,833 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.4% of the population in Fargo.

How many housing units are there in Fargo?

There are 63,807 housing units in Fargo, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Fargo has a total of 59,970 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Fargo?

Fargo has a median household income of $66,998, representing a +1.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Fargo?

The employment rate is 96.2% in Fargo, with a workforce of 76,778 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 81.7% (62,757 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18.3% (14,021 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.5% (4,999 residents)
  • Private companies: 68% (52,177 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.9% (10,642 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.7% (8,960 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