Cost of Living in Oakes, ND

With a cost of living index of 67, Oakes, ND is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 33% cheaper than the national average and 8% below the North Dakota state average of 74. Oakes is a small community of 2,046 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Oakes's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $740 (44% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $160,100 (47% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.5x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Oakes is $64,750, which is 14% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 14% 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 Oakes. The area sees an average annual temperature of 44°F, with summers averaging 70°F and winters around 16°F. Annual rainfall totals 21.8 inches spread over roughly 98 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.