Moving to Williston, ND? Check Out These Resources

Mike Christen

Relocating to a new place always creates questions. So if you are moving to Williston, you might be thinking: What will you do in your free time? Where will your kids go to school? How will you meet people in the community? 

Several groups in Williston provide new and prospective residents with answers via a relocation concierge service, the Discover Williston app and the Williston Professionals Network. 

These initiatives have two main goals, says Anna Nelson, president of the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce. First, they correct negative stereotypes of the oil town, and second, they showcase all the reasons why workers would want to move to this pocket of northwest North Dakota. 

“A lot of people come here and they’re like, ‘OK, it’s a small, cold town. I don’t know anybody. I went to my job interview, and I’m going to go home and probably never look back,’” Nelson says. “So, we’re trying to make sure they do look back.” 

Relocation Concierge Services 

The relocation concierge services do so by providing personal connection. Visitors choose from a list of amenities they would use – for example, their potential workplace, area schools, churches and so on. A chamber member volunteers to drive them to those locations for an insider’s look. 

While interviewing for his current role, Zahi Atallah, vice president of academic affairs at Williston State College, took a tour with Nelson. She showed him the college campus, where about 1,000 students pursue technical training or prepare to attend four-year institutions. 

What Atallah saw, from Williston’s vibrant downtown and schools to its medical facilities and airport, impressed him. 

“Without really selling, she sold the place,” Atallah says. “The fact that it is somebody who lives and works here and represents the interests of the people was quite impressive. The care, interest and personalization meant the world to me.” 

As part of the concierge tour, visitors receive a packet with the “Where in Williams County?” relocation guide and other materials, including information about the Discover Williston app.

Livability

Discover Williston App

Launched in late 2023, the Discover Williston app includes four sections: Shop Local, Eat Local, Play/Events and Live/Work/Stay. These help newcomers and lifelong residents alike find services, events and more, says Erin Delaney, events/membership coordinator at the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce. 

“Our app is like a giant directory of everything in Williston. It’s more user friendly and up to date in real time than a phone book,” Delaney says. “It allows us to highlight our chamber members. We have everything in there, from restaurants to spas to real estate.” 

The Discover Williston app enables the chamber to organize scavenger hunts where residents get incentives to visit certain stores. This not only helps small businesses but also boosts connections.

Williston Professionals Network

The Williston Professionals Network also provides opportunities for residents working in any industry or role to gather. Part of the chamber, the group hosts quarterly in-person meetings to build community. 

“We have socials and networking events for all professionals in town,” says Rebekka Johnson, chair of Williston Professionals Network. “I like to emphasize that professional is a very broad term.” 

Connecting with group members reminds Johnson, a lifelong resident, that Williston is a unique place to live and build a career. That’s why it draws people from across the U.S. and the world. 

“Whether you are a local or new to town, there are tons of opportunities for volunteering and leadership within many groups or organizations. For those looking to start new businesses, I think the support from the Williston community is second to none,” Johnson says. 

These possibilities show in Williston’s diverse demographics, as well, Atallah says. 

“The fact that you have a growing Latino population, a significant African American population, a growing East Asian population – it’s a testament that it’s an area that is thinking long term,” he says. 

With so many questions already answered, Delaney has just one piece of advice for newcomers: “Get a warm coat. Get a warm hat. And embrace the idea that you could find something that you thrive in that you maybe never thought you would do.”