North Dakota

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State Motto

Liberty and Union, Now and Forever, One and Inseparable

State Motto of North Dakota

North Dakota State Information

North Dakota is the 39th State in the Union

North Dakota, located in the northern Great Plains, is renowned for its vast prairies, fertile farmland, and strong agricultural heritage. Often referred to as the "Peace Garden State," the state's landscape is marked by serene lakes, winding rivers, and the striking Badlands in the west. Agriculture is the backbone of North Dakota's economy, with the state being one of the top producers of wheat, corn, soybeans, and livestock. In addition to farming, the state's oil production, particularly from the Bakken Formation, has transformed North Dakota into a major energy producer, contributing significantly to its economic growth.

Beyond its agricultural and energy sectors, North Dakota offers a peaceful and rural lifestyle, with tight-knit communities and a slower pace of life that appeals to those seeking tranquility. The state also has a rich cultural history, with significant Native American heritage and a growing arts scene in cities like Fargo and Bismarck. North Dakota’s combination of natural beauty, rural charm, and emerging industries make it a unique state with a distinctive appeal to both residents and visitors.

State Nickname of North Dakota

North Dakota Geography

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North Dakota's geography is diverse, with a mix of vast prairies, fertile farmland, and rugged natural landscapes. The state is known for its expansive prairies, which make it one of the most significant agricultural regions in the U.S. The Missouri River runs through the western part of the state, carving out fertile valleys and acting as a natural border. North Dakota's northern border is shared with Canada's Manitoba province, further adding to the state's unique position in North America. The western part of the state is home to the Badlands, characterized by dramatic rock formations and natural beauty, particularly at Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

In addition to its wide-open prairies and rugged terrain, North Dakota boasts numerous lakes and rivers, enhancing the state's outdoor recreational opportunities. The state's climate is continental, with cold winters and warm summers, contributing to the agricultural richness of the land. North Dakota’s natural beauty and diverse geography make it a significant hub for both outdoor activities and agriculture, while its cultural heritage, particularly its Native American roots, further enrich the state’s identity.

North Dakota Economy

North Dakota's economy is built on a mix of agriculture, energy, manufacturing, and emerging sectors, providing the state with both stability and growth. Agriculture remains a cornerstone, with North Dakota being a major producer of wheat, barley, soybeans, and other crops, supporting its significant role in global food production. The state's energy sector is also a key driver, with vast oil and natural gas reserves, particularly from the Bakken Formation, making North Dakota a leader in shale oil production.

In addition to these traditional sectors, North Dakota's economy has been diversifying with growth in manufacturing, technology, and healthcare. The state's economy benefits from a low unemployment rate, strong job creation, and a fiscal policy that promotes budgetary conservatism. These factors, combined with its robust agricultural and energy sectors, have helped North Dakota maintain economic resilience, even during periods of broader economic uncertainty.

North Dakota at a Glance

Key facts about North Dakota covering taxes, cost of living, income, and climate.

Taxes

North Dakota has a graduated income tax ranging from 1.10% to 2.50%. Residents carry a moderate overall tax burden of 8.20% of income, and the combined state and local sales tax averages a low 6.96%.

Overall Tax Burden

Income Tax:	1.10% – 2.50%
Overall Tax Burden:	8.20% of income
State Sales Tax:	5.00% (6.96% avg combined with local)
Property Tax Rate:	0.98% effective rate
Gas Tax:	23.00¢ per gallon
Estate Tax:	No

Cost of Living & Housing

North Dakota has a below-average cost of living, running about 8.7% cheaper than the national average. The median home price of $268,000 is below the national average.

Cost of Living Index

Cost of Living Index:	91.30 (US avg = 100)
Median Home Price:	$268,000
Median Monthly Rent:	$950/mo

Income & Employment

North Dakota's median household income of $70,577 is near the national average. The unemployment rate of 2.10% is among the lowest in the country, and the poverty rate is 9.70%.

Median Household Income

Median Household Income:	$70,577
Minimum Wage:	$7.25/hr
Unemployment Rate:	2.10%
Poverty Rate:	9.70%

Climate

North Dakota gets a moderate amount of sunshine, averaging 111 sunny days per year. Winters are harsh, with January temperatures averaging 9.0°F, while summers reach 71.0°F in July, and heavy snowfall of around 35.00" annually is typical.

Sunny Days / Year

Sunny Days / Year:	111 days
Avg January Temp:	9.0°F
Avg July Temp:	71.0°F
Annual Rainfall:	17.80"
Annual Snowfall:	35.00"

Demographics

North Dakota has a relatively young population with a median age of 35.3. It is one of the least densely populated states at 11.2 people per square mile, and the population is growing at 0.70% per year.

Median Age

Median Age:	35.3 years
Population Density:	11.2 per sq mi
Population Growth:	0.70% (last census)

North Dakota State Symbols