Cost of Living in Ellendale, ND

With a cost of living index of 64, Ellendale, ND is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 36% cheaper than the national average and 10% below the North Dakota state average of 74. Ellendale is a small community of 946 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Ellendale's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $786 (40% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $115,900 (62% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.9x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Ellendale is $40,000, which is 47% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 24% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Ellendale. The area sees an average annual temperature of 41.9°F, with summers averaging 67°F and winters around 15°F. Annual rainfall totals 19.9 inches spread over roughly 96 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.