Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Shepard, ND
Considering a move to Shepard, ND? This rural community, with fewer than 500 residents, offers an affordable lifestyle, with median home prices around $201,000 and average rents near $810. Commute times are short at just over 22 minutes, and crime rates remain low compared to national averages. Enjoy North Dakota’s sunny climate, quiet surroundings, and access to good local schools and healthcare in nearby Bismarck. Shepard is a great fit for those seeking space, safety, and a friendly, small-town vibe.
Demographics - Shepard, ND
Demographics - Shepard, ND
Shepard, ND is a close-knit rural community with an estimated population under 500, a median age of 42.6, and a predominantly White population. The area maintains a balanced gender ratio and a small percentage of non-English speakers, fostering a quiet, neighborly atmosphere. Its low population density provides residents with plenty of open space and a peaceful lifestyle.
Population:
Estimated <500
Density:
Sparse (approx. 10 per sq mi)
Median Age:
42.6
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.5%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
5.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Shepard, ND?
Living in Shepard is highly affordable, with a median home value of $201,000 and average rent at $810. The overall cost of living index is 89.5, meaning everyday expenses are lower than the national average. Residents benefit from modest utility costs and low state tax rates, making Shepard a budget-friendly choice.
Median House Value:
$201,000
Gross Rent:
$810
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$137
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,240
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
1.1%
|
High:
2.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.5
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
78.4
Utilities:
97.9
Transportation:
92.1
Health Care:
96.6
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Shepard, ND a safe place to live?
Shepard experiences low crime rates, especially compared to urban centers, with a violent crime rate of 220 per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 455 chance of being affected. Property crime is also relatively rare, supporting a safe and welcoming environment for families and individuals. Peace of mind is a key benefit of life in this small community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
220
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,140
Crime Index:
1,360
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 455
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 88
Weather
What is the weather like in Shepard, ND year-round?
Residents in Shepard enjoy a classic North Dakota climate, with cold winters (lows near 2°F) and warm, pleasant summers reaching up to 82°F. The area sees about 17 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 62% sunny days, allowing for a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year. Seasonal shifts offer the full range of northern weather experiences.
Winter
Min:
2°F
Max:
22°F
Spring
Min:
29°F
Max:
59°F
Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
17.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The Shepard community has a median household income of $71,000 and a family income of $83,500, with a low poverty rate of 8.7%. Most adults have completed high school, and nearly a third hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Local residents enjoy short commutes and a strong sense of community rooted in shared values and neighborly support.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$71,000
Family Income:
$83,500
Per Capita Income:
$33,600
Income Male:
$43,000
Income Female:
$34,500
Poverty Rate:
8.7%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$810
Unemployment Rate:
2.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
22.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.9%
Bachelors or More:
32.8%
Education
How are the schools in Shepard, ND?
Families in Shepard benefit from access to local public schools such as Apple Creek Elementary, which offers small class sizes and personalized learning. For higher education, reputable institutions like Bismarck State College and the University of Mary are located within a short drive. The educational landscape supports learners from early grades through college.
Public Schools
Name:
Apple Creek Elementary School
Street:
2000 93rd St SE
Phone:
701-223-7332
Students:
110
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Colleges
Name:
Bismarck State College
City:
Bismarck
State:
ND
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
3,700
Name:
University of Mary
City:
Bismarck
State:
ND
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
3,800
Healthcare
Access to quality healthcare is convenient, with major hospitals like Sanford Medical Center and CHI St. Alexius Health located in nearby Bismarck. Shepard residents benefit from a high rate of health insurance coverage (over 91%) and a favorable physician-to-population ratio. Emergency and general medical services are readily available to support community well-being.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sanford Medical Center Bismarck
Address:
300 N 7th St, Bismarck, ND 58501
Phone:
(701) 323-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
CHI St. Alexius Health Bismarck
Address:
900 E Broadway Ave, Bismarck, ND 58501
Phone:
(701) 530-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.7%
Health Care Index:
72.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Shepard, ND?
Shepard’s housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $201,000 and average rents at $810 for a two-bedroom. The majority of homes are owner-occupied, and the area sees minimal foreclosure activity and positive appreciation rates. This makes Shepard an appealing option for buyers seeking both value and long-term investment potential.
Median Home Price:
$201,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$810
Owner Occupied Rate:
72.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.0%
New Construction Rate:
2.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Vehicle services for Shepard residents are managed by the North Dakota Department of Transportation’s Motor Vehicle Division in Bismarck. The DMV offers comprehensive licensing, registration, and titling services, and can be easily reached by phone or through their official website. Proximity to Bismarck ensures convenient access for all motor vehicle needs.
State:
North Dakota
Department:
North Dakota Department of Transportation - Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
608 E Boulevard Ave, Bismarck, ND 58505
Phone:
1-701-328-2725
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.