Cost of Living in Williston, ND

With a cost of living index of 86, Williston, ND is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 14% cheaper than the national average and 12% above the North Dakota state average of 74. With a population of 27,964, Williston is a mid-sized community that balances access to services with a more manageable cost of living compared to larger metros.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Williston's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,106 (16% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $262,700 (14% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.1x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Williston is $84,309, which is 12% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 16% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Williston. The area sees an average annual temperature of 41.7°F, with summers averaging 68°F and winters around 15°F. Annual rainfall totals 15.1 inches spread over roughly 100 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.