Moving to North Dakota: A Relocation Guide

Published Aug 14, 2026 · Relocation · Red Rock Daily staff

Thinking about moving to North Dakota? Here's a practical starting point for newcomers.

Key facts

• Capital: Bismarck
• Largest city: Fargo
• Population: 779,094 (2020 census)
• Nickname: The Peace Garden State
• Region: Midwest

What should you consider before moving to North Dakota?

• Where to live: Major cities include Fargo and the state capital Bismarck. See our North Dakota state guide and city guides for details.
• Cost of living: Compare housing, utilities and taxes carefully — costs vary significantly across the state.
• Lifestyle: North Dakota's midwest location shapes daily life, from climate to recreation. Explore the top things to do to get a feel for the state.
• Jobs & schools: Research local employers and school districts in your target city before committing.

City guides: Bismarck, Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot.

Frequently asked questions

What are the largest cities in North Dakota?

The largest city in North Dakota is Fargo, and the capital is Bismarck. See the city guides for local detail.

What is the population of North Dakota?

The 2020 census population of North Dakota is 779,094 (2020 census).

What should I research before moving to North Dakota?

Compare housing, utilities, taxes, jobs and school districts in your target city. The moving guide above and the North Dakota state guide are a good starting point — verify current costs with local sources.

Next steps

This guide is a starting point — Red Rock Daily is building detailed, city-level relocation coverage across the country. For now, combine this overview with the North Dakota state guide and local city pages.