Grand Forks County, ND demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
72,923
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$68,075/yr
-0.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
33,891
0.5% year-over-year change

Grand Forks County population

How many people live in Grand Forks County

Grand Forks County is home to 72,923 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.5% of Grand Forks County locals are male, and 48.5% are female.

Total population
72,923
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.5%
37,587
Female
48.5%
35,336
Value Percent YoY change
Male 37,587 51.5% 0.4%
Female 35,336 48.5% 0.1%
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 Grand Forks County is 31, with the population distributed as follows: about 18% are children under 15, then 22.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.1% of the population, while another 18.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
30.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18%
15 to 24
22.3%
25 to 44
27.1%
45 to 64
18.4%
Over 65
14.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 13,091 18% -0.9%
15 to 24 16,284 22.3% -0.3%
25 to 44 19,735 27.1% 1.3%
45 to 64 13,422 18.4% -0.9%
Over 65 10,391 14.2% 1.9%
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 Grand Forks County, 92.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 83.1% of locals are Caucasian, 3.9% are African American and 2.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 7.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.3%
Non-citizens
4.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 67,270 92.2% -0.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,418 3.3% 8.9%
Non-citizens 3,235 4.4% 21.0%
Racial breakdown
White
83.1%
Black or African American
3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.8%
Asian
2.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7.1%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 60,573 83.1%
Black or African American 2,820 3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,347 1.8%
Asian 2,020 2.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 28 0%
Two or more races 5,200 7.1%
Other 935 1.3%

Households in Grand Forks County

A peek inside Grand Forks County households

Grand Forks County has 31,295 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 48.9% are families, while the remaining 51.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
31,295
0.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
15,988
Family households
15,307
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 15,988 51.1% 2.5%
Family households 15,307 48.9% -0.9%
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 Grand Forks County

The housing landscape of Grand Forks County

Grand Forks County's housing consists of 33,891 units, with 43.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.6% 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 3.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
33,891
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,805 43.7%
1 unit, attached 3,271 9.6%
2 units 697 2.1%
3 or 4 units 1,340 4%
5 to 9 units 1,504 4.4%
10 to 19 units 3,066 9%
20 to 49 units 4,414 13%
50 or more units 3,598 10.6%
Mobile home 1,168 3.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 28 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
784
44.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Grand Forks County

In Grand Forks County, the median construction year is 1982. About 10% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.2% 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, 15% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,407 10% -4.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,075 3.2% -2.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,642 7.8% -7.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,406 7.1% -4.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,445 19% 1.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,307 12.7% 8.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,655 10.8% 0.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 4,078 12% 2.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 5,092 15% -1.8%
Built in 2020 or later 784 2.3% 44.4%
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.

Grand Forks County occupancy rates

Out of the 31,295 occupied housing units in Grand Forks County, 51.8% are owner-occupied, while 48.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
31,295
0.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
15,090
Owner occupied
16,205
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 15,090 48.2% 1.4%
Owner occupied 16,205 51.8% 0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
7.7%
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.

Grand Forks County housing costs

Housing costs in Grand Forks County come to a median of $1,079 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $992.

Median housing costs per month
$1,079/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 Grand Forks County
$992/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 Grand Forks County

Grand Forks County education at a glance

About 23.8% of the population in Grand Forks County went to high school, while 30.9% pursued college studies. Another 11.3% earned an associate degree and 22.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 763 1.3% 3.1%
High school diploma 13,687 23.8% 0.9%
College diploma 17,757 30.9% 0.3%
Associate degree 6,492 11.3% -4.1%
Bachelor's degree 12,891 22.4% 3.3%
Graduate degree 5,890 10.2% -2.7%
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 Grand Forks County

How much people earn in Grand Forks County

The average annual household income in Grand Forks County was $92,591 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $68,075, reflecting a -0.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Grand Forks County
$92,591/year
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Grand Forks County
$68,075/year
-0.6% year-over-year change

Grand Forks County income by age

In Grand Forks County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,013. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $94,721 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $35,721, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,623 in earnings. Overall, 87% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $35,721 4.8%
25 - 44 $81,013 1.3%
45 - 64 $94,721 1.0%
Over 65 $56,623 1.7%
Above poverty level
58,440
Below poverty level
8,769
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 58,440 87% 0.7%
Below poverty level 8,769 13% -5.0%

Employment in Grand Forks County

Workforce and job types in Grand Forks County

The job market in Grand Forks County is powered by 39,777 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.3% run their own businesses, 59.7% are employed by private companies, and 22.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
39,777
1.1% year-over-year change
White collar
30,714
Blue collar
9,063
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 30,714 77.2% 0.2%
Blue collar 9,063 22.8% 4.2%
Employer type
Self employees
7.3%
Private companies
59.7%
Governmental workers
22.1%
Not for profit companies
11%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,900 7.3% 0.5%
Private companies 23,730 59.7% 2.8%
Governmental workers 8,777 22.1% -0.8%
Not for profit companies 4,370 11% -3.5%
Unemployment rate
2.3%
-13.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Grand Forks County stands at 2.3%, 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 Grand Forks County

How people get around in Grand Forks County

In Grand Forks County, the average commute time is 16 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
16 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 35,211 87.3% -0.0%
Taxicab 202 0.5% 68.3%
Bus or trolleybus 438 1.1% 38.6%
Ferryboat 22 0% -12.0%
Motorcycle 267 0.7% 27.1%
Bicycle 89 0.2% -17.6%
Walk 1,258 3.1% -6.4%
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 Grand Forks County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
58201 42,373 19,612 $68,143 $96,717
58202 2,865 108 $29,600 $30,380
58203 16,478 7,365 $60,474 $71,816
58204 1,834 524 $73,145 $81,525
58205 153 9 $0 $0
58214 387 154 $111,944 $123,834
58228 640 323 $70,625 $88,579
58231 461 170 $85,833 $108,676
58235 513 201 $81,042 $96,440
58240 991 419 $85,950 $99,099

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FAQs about Grand Forks County demographics 

What is the total population of Grand Forks County?

Grand Forks County has a total population of 72,923 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Grand Forks County?

The gender ratio in Grand Forks County is as follows:
  • 51.5% males (37,587 residents)
  • 48.5% females (35,336 residents)

What is the median age in Grand Forks County?

The median age in Grand Forks County is 30.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Grand Forks County?

The age distribution in Grand Forks County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18% (13,091 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 22.3% (16,284 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.1% (19,735 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 18.4% (13,422 residents)
  • Over 65: 14.2% (10,391 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Grand Forks County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Grand Forks County is as follows:
  • White: 83.1% (60,573 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.9% (2,820 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.8% (1,347 residents)
  • Asian: 2.8% (2,020 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (28 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.1% (5,200 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (935 residents)

What percentage of the population in Grand Forks County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.2% of the population in Grand Forks County.

How many housing units are there in Grand Forks County?

There are 33,891 housing units in Grand Forks County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Grand Forks County and what is the average household size?

Grand Forks County has a total of 31,295 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Grand Forks County?

Grand Forks County has a median household income of $68,075, representing a -0.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Grand Forks County?

The employment rate is 97.7% in Grand Forks County, with a workforce of 39,777 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.2% (30,714 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.8% (9,063 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.3% (2,900 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.7% (23,730 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.1% (8,777 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11% (4,370 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