Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Fargo, ND
Considering a move to West Fargo, ND? This fast-growing city of 42,531 offers affordable living, with a median home price around $312,000 and typical rents near $1,150. Residents enjoy short commutes averaging 17 minutes, a lower-than-average crime rate (158 violent crimes per 100K), and excellent public schools. West Fargo boasts a youthful population, plentiful sunny days, and easy access to major hospitals and colleges, making it a great choice for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - West Fargo, ND
Demographics - West Fargo, ND
West Fargo, with a population of 42,531 and a median age of 33.2, is a youthful and growing community where the majority of residents are White, but the city also features a mix of other ethnic backgrounds. The even gender ratio and presence of 8.4% non-English speakers contribute to a balanced and diverse local culture. Residents benefit from a moderately high population density, fostering both vibrant neighborhoods and community engagement.
Population:
42,531
Density:
2,380 per sq mi
Median Age:
33.2
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.4%
Ethnic Composition
White:
88.1%
Black:
3.4%
Asian:
2.5%
Others:
6.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Fargo, ND?
West Fargo offers a cost of living index of 92.4, making it more affordable than the national average, especially in housing, where the median home value is about $312,000 and median rent is $1,150. Utilities and transportation costs are also budget-friendly, while state taxes remain relatively low. This combination of reasonable expenses and value makes the city attractive for both renters and homeowners.
Median House Value:
$312,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,130
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,730
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$510
State Taxes:
Low:
1.1%
|
High:
2.9%
Cost Of Living Index:
92.4
Grocery:
97.1
Housing:
85.8
Utilities:
98.5
Transportation:
89.2
Health Care:
94.6
Miscellaneous:
91.3
Crime
Is West Fargo, ND a safe place to live?
West Fargo maintains a relatively low crime rate, with just 158 violent crimes and 2,040 property crimes per 100,000 residents, making it safer than many similarly sized cities. The chance of experiencing violent crime is about 1 in 633, offering residents peace of mind and a secure environment. Its strong community focus and proactive policing contribute to the city’s reputation for safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
158
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,040
Crime Index:
2,198
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 633
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 49
Weather
What is the weather like in West Fargo, ND year-round?
Residents experience four distinct seasons in West Fargo, with cold, snowy winters (lows near 0°F) and warm summers reaching up to 82°F. The city receives about 22.6 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunny weather 57% of the year. These weather patterns allow for a wide range of outdoor activities throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
0°F
Max:
21°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
22.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
West Fargo neighborhoods are characterized by solid economic health, with a median household income of $89,400 and a low poverty rate of 5.4%. Most adults hold at least a high school diploma, and commute times are short, averaging under 17 minutes. The area’s low unemployment and high educational attainment make it a desirable place for families and professionals.
Median Income:
$41,000
Household Income:
$89,400
Family Income:
$109,500
Per Capita Income:
$38,700
Income Male:
$55,400
Income Female:
$44,800
Poverty Rate:
5.4%
Non English Speakers:
8.4%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
2.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
16.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.5%
Bachelors or More:
39.6%
Education
How are the schools in West Fargo, ND?
West Fargo is known for excellent educational opportunities, featuring highly rated public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and access to both private schooling and higher education. Notably, North Dakota State University is just 6 miles away, making advanced degrees easily attainable for local residents. The city’s educational environment supports academic achievement for families and students at all levels.
Public Schools
Name:
West Fargo High School
Street:
801 9th St E
Phone:
701-356-2050
Students:
1,500
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.7
Name:
Liberty Middle School
Street:
801 36th Ave E
Phone:
701-356-2671
Students:
1,150
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.1
Private Schools
Name:
Holy Cross Catholic School
Street:
1420 16th St E
Phone:
701-282-3301
Students:
160
Colleges
Name:
North Dakota State University
City:
Fargo
State:
ND
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
12,400
Name:
Minnesota State University Moorhead
City:
Moorhead
State:
MN
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
5,700
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is robust in West Fargo, with major hospitals like Sanford Medical Center and Essentia Health located nearby and 94.8% of residents having health insurance coverage. The city enjoys a high ratio of physicians (2.5 per 1,000 people) and a solid healthcare index, ensuring quality care for all ages. Emergency services are readily available, providing peace of mind to residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sanford Medical Center Fargo
Address:
5225 23rd Ave S, Fargo, ND 58104
Phone:
(701) 234-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Essentia Health-Fargo
Address:
3000 32nd Ave S, Fargo, ND 58103
Phone:
(701) 364-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.8%
Health Care Index:
80.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Fargo, ND?
West Fargo’s housing market is stable, with a median home price of $312,000 and a homeownership rate nearing 69%. Rental options are available with average rents for a two-bedroom at $1,150, and vacancy rates are moderate, reflecting healthy demand. The area has experienced a 4.2% home value appreciation over the past year, indicating a resilient and growing real estate market.
Median Home Price:
$312,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Vehicle and licensing services for West Fargo are provided by the North Dakota Department of Transportation, based in Bismarck. Residents can access information and services through the department’s website or by phone, ensuring convenient support for all DMV needs. The process is straightforward and designed to serve drivers throughout the region.
State:
North Dakota
Department:
North Dakota Department of Transportation
Address:
608 E Boulevard Ave, Bismarck, ND 58505
Phone:
1-855-637-6237
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.