BismarckND-NDStateCapitol

UPDATE: Check out our new 2023 Best Cities to Live in the U.S. list.

liv score
661
How We Calculate Our Data
Civics 80
Demographics 42
Economy 66
Education 61
Health 62
Housing 77
Infrastructure 70

#15. Bismarck, ND

North Dakota’s capital has the perfect blend of strong-rooted tradition and a bold willingness to try new things. Bismarck’s young residents aren’t afraid to get creative and take on innovative ventures. Want proof? Check out Bismarck’s revitalized downtown, which is home to an impressive roster of locally owned businesses and a supportive community of artists and creatives.

Bismarck makes frequent appearances on Livability’s Top 100 Best Places to Live list thanks to an affordable cost of living, great job opportunities and an infrastructure that makes it easy to get around and enjoy all this fantastic city has to offer.

Local Obsession: The Bismarck Bobcats hockey team, of course.

Climate Described in 6 Words Or Less: Extreme weather and outdoor adventures

Top Industries and Employers: Bismarck benefits from thriving agriculture and energy industries. MDU Resources, a company that provides energy, utilities and construction materials, is one of Bismarck’s top employers — and it’s now a Fortune 500 company. The state government is also a major employer.

Local Dream Job: Gallery owner — the arts scene in Bismarck is lively and growing fast.

Quintessential Meal: Tater tot hotdish with lefse for dessert: the perfect homage to the wonders of casserole country and North Dakota’s Scandinavian roots.

Favorite Weekend Activity: Getting outdoors, no matter the weather or the temperature.

After-Work Meetup Spot: Peacock Alley

Best Brewery: Laughing Sun Brewing

Beloved Bookstore: Owl Bookstore

Free Way to Have Fun: Explore the four galleries of The North Dakota Heritage Center or attend one of the frequent educational events held there.

– Claire Hannum

Read More:

Why Bismarck is a Best Place to Live

8 Reasons to Move to North Dakota Right Now

20 Greatest Things About Living in the Midwest

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