Fargo, NDBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Situated along the banks of the Red River, Fargo is known for its Midwestern charm and urban sophistication. With a strong job market, affordable cost of living and top-rated schools, it’s no wonder why people love living in this friendly community.
More About Living in North Dakota
Fargo, ND, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
Friendly residents, a diversified, recession-proof economy, plus a hip arts and culture scene all combine to make Fargo, ND, one of the best places to live in the U.S.
Those who put down roots on the prairie find that their dollar stretches further in Fargo. Plus, there are all kinds of career opportunities, from a growing biosciences sector that’s attracting big-name companies to a thriving Unmanned Aircraft Systems industry being shaped here, and enterprises like Grand Farm are harnessing technology to solve agricultural problems. Fargo is the perfect place to live if you’re looking to grow your business, looking for new opportunities or are an entrepreneur at heart looking for a supportive, business-savvy community.
Fargo and its environs are also a hub for arts and culture, with the Stage West Theatre hosting musicals and plays, the Plains Art Museum that has a collection of Native American artworks and more, and colorful murals around town that make for a fabulous outdoor gallery. (Find the Mario Wall behind the Toasted Frog).
On top of all that, Fargo is close to pine forests and lakes, so there are endless opportunities to mountain bike, canoe, camp and hike.
Fargo, ND Quality of Life LivScore
Fargo, ND Top Categories
Transportation
Housing & Cost of Living
Education
Fargo ranks highest for transportation, housing and education.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Fargo, ND
Fargo gets all four seasons, sometimes during the span of a single day! The average highs and lows are 80°F and 58°F (summer) and 21°F and 4°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Fargo is 50 inches. Winters can be long and cold with significant snowfall, but Fargo residents know how to have fun in the snow.
The average annual rainfall in Fargo is 20 inches. June is typically the wettest month in Fargo.
Fargo averages 206 sunny days a year.
For a challenging round of golf, make a tee time at Rose Creek Golf Course.
Fargo Weather
206 days
Average Annual Sun
20 inches
Average Annual Rain
50 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Fargo, ND
Snap a photo with the woodchipper prop from “Fargo.” It’s located at Fargo’s Visitor Center. Island Park, Fargo’s oldest park, is the perfect place to hike during warmer months and cross-country ski when the weather turns cold. Or gather your friends (and furry friends) for some fun at Yunker Farm Park & Dog Park.
Davies Recreational Pool doubles as a water park with slides, a playground and a 400-gallon drop bucket that tips every four minutes.
Catch a foreign or independent film at the Art Deco-style Fargo Theatre.
Find a darn good matcha latte and immaculate vibes at Youngblood Coffee Roasters, where ethically sourced beans and fair wages are prioritized.
The Local and State Economy in Fargo, ND
Fargo’s diverse economy is made up of several different industries, including health care, technology and agriculture. Sanford Health, North Dakota State University and Doosan Bobcat are some of the city’s largest employers.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Fargo is 7.5%.
Yes, North Dakota has a state income tax.
Fargo residents are in good health thanks to providers like Sanford Health and Essentia Health, both of which operate several hospitals in the area. Sanford Medical Center Fargo and Essentia Health-Fargo are high performers in several categories.
There are several colleges and universities in Fargo, ND, including North Dakota State University and Rasmussen University-Fargo.
Quick Facts About Fargo, ND
- Median Household Income
- $61,097
- Median Home Value
- $246,800
- Average State Property Tax
- $1,583
- Total Population
- 128,206
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $731
- Average Commute
- 13.61 minutes
Fargo’s solid performance in the education category and highly rated schools helped the city land its spot as one of the best places to live in the U.S. Read even more about what makes Fargo a great community and consider other North Dakota cities perfect for families. Also, find out why you’ll want to make your move to this North Dakota city right now.
