Cost of Living in Fargo, ND

With a cost of living index of 81, Fargo, ND is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 19% cheaper than the national average and 7% above the North Dakota state average of 74. As a major city with a population of 129,064, Fargo offers a wide range of housing options, employment opportunities, and urban amenities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Fargo's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $916 (31% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $269,800 (12% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 4.1x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Fargo is $66,029, which is 12% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 17% 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 Fargo. The area sees an average annual temperature of 42.2°F, with summers averaging 69°F and winters around 13°F. Annual rainfall totals 24 inches spread over roughly 109 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Everyday prices in the Fargo, ND-MN (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area are generally below the national average. Out of 6 common items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 6 are priced lower than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

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.