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Williston, North Dakota

USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence

61
Overall Score

Williston, North Dakota, often referred to as the 'Western Star,' is a city situated at the confluence of the Yellowstone and Missouri Rivers. Historically a significant crossroads, it has evolved into a regional hub for business, development, and leisure. The city experienced substantial population growth, particularly between 2010 and 2019, largely driven by the booming oil and gas industry in the Bakken Formation. Despite this rapid expansion, Williston has largely maintained a small-town charm, characterized by friendly communities and a strong sense of local support. People are drawn to Williston for its economic opportunities, particularly in the energy sector, and its access to extensive outdoor recreation, including world-class hunting, fishing, and national parks. The city continues to invest in its infrastructure and amenities, aiming to create a family-friendly environment with modern conveniences.

About North Dakota

North Dakota, located in the Upper Midwest, is characterized by its vast prairies, badlands, and a predominantly rural landscape, though its larger cities like Fargo and Bismarck are experiencing growth. The state's economy is primarily driven by agriculture, with approximately 90% of its land dedicated to farmland, producing crops like wheat, corn, and soybeans, alongside significant contributions from the energy sector, particularly oil and gas extraction from the Bakken oil shale fields. Living in North Dakota generally offers a lower cost of living, with housing costs and overall expenses typically below the national average. The climate features hot, short summers and long, cold, snowy winters, and the lifestyle is often described as slower-paced with a strong sense of community and abundant outdoor recreational opportunities.

29,401
Population
$45K
Avg Salary
95
Cost Index
61.3
Quality Score
How this 61/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
Component Readings used Points Weight Contributes
Safety Safety score: 45 / 100 45.0 30% 13.5
Affordability Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 95.0 50.0 25% 12.5
Economy & jobs Median household income: $79,381 Income needed to live here: $43,956 Unemployment rate: 2.5% 96.9 20% 19.4
Growth No usable reading — dataset average used 56.4 15% 8.5
Business climate assessment Business climate assessment: 75 / 100 75.0 10% 7.5
Overall score 61.3

Provenance. These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=100 ✓ perfect), last refreshed 11 October 2026. They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.

Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.

Businesses in Williston

Featured local businesses in Williston.

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Quality Scores

Business
75
Livability
70
Affordability
78
Growth
60

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Williston, ND, is generally lower than the national average, with the average rent being approximately $1,249 per month for all property types as of October 2026. This makes it one of the less expensive cities statewide for rentals, with prices about 34% lower than the national average. However, while rent is relatively affordable, other costs can vary. The overall cost of living index for Williston is estimated at 95, indicating it is 5% less expensive than the national average. Housing costs, while lower than the national average, have seen fluctuations, with median listing prices for homes increasing year-over-year by 7.60% as of September 2026. Utilities and groceries contribute to the monthly expenses, but the city's affordability is a significant draw for residents.

Average Rent
$1,249/mo
Groceries
$400/mo
Transport
$120/mo
Utilities
$180/mo
Healthcare
$250/mo
Gym membership (monthly)
$45.00
Cinema ticket
$14.00
Restaurant meal (mid-range)
$22.00
Monthly groceries
$400.00
Doctor visit (without insurance)
$150.00

Salary Insights

Williston's economy is heavily influenced by the oil and gas industry, being at the center of the Bakken oil formation, which has positioned North Dakota as a leading oil-producing state. This sector creates numerous job opportunities and drives growth in related fields such as transportation, construction, and services. As of 2024, the most common employment sectors include Health Care & Social Assistance, Mining, Quarrying, & Oil & Gas Extraction, and Retail Trade. The city's unemployment rate was 2.50% in August 2026, which is significantly lower than the national average, indicating a robust job market. Beyond energy, Williston also offers opportunities in healthcare, engineering, manufacturing, value-added agriculture, tourism, education, and hospitality. While the overall employment in Williston saw a slight decline of -0.8% from 2023 to 2024, specific sectors continue to show growth, reflecting a dynamic and evolving job landscape.

The average salary in Williston is $45,046 per year. You would need approximately $43,956 to live comfortably.

Top Industries

Retail Trade +0.50% Transportation & Warehousing +2.00% Construction +3.00% Health Care & Social Assistance +1.50% Mining, Quarrying, & Oil & Gas Extraction +2.00%

Climate

🌡️
44°F
Avg Temp
☀️
77°F
Summer High
❄️
2°F
Winter Low
🌧️
17.80"
Annual Rain
💧
65.00%
Humidity
🌤️
288
Sunny Days

Transport

Getting around Williston is primarily car-dependent, as indicated by the city's widespread layout and the average car ownership of two cars per household. The average commute time for residents is relatively short, at 17.6 minutes, which is less than the national average. While public transportation exists, it is limited, with a bus system that requires booking in advance rather than having regular stops. This makes walkability and transit scores relatively low. The city's location at the crossroads of US Highway 85 and 2 makes it a significant distribution hub, facilitating regional travel and commerce. Despite the reliance on personal vehicles, the short commute times contribute to a more manageable daily travel experience for residents.

18 min
Avg Commute
20.00/10
Transit Score
30.00/10
Walkability
High
Car Dependency

Pros & Cons

Advantages
The unemployment rate in Williston is significantly lower than the national average, standing at 2.50% in August 2026.
Williston offers a relatively short average commute time of 17.6 minutes, less than the national average.
The city provides ample outdoor recreation opportunities, including access to the Missouri River and Lake Sakakawea for water sports, fishing, and hunting.
The average rent in Williston is 34% lower than the national average, making it a more affordable place to live for renters.
Williston has a strong sense of community and friendly residents, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.
Drawbacks
The overall crime rate in Williston is 29.9% higher than the national average, with a violent crime rate 21.8% higher.
Public transportation options are limited, making the city highly car-dependent.
Some residents express concerns about safety, particularly regarding walking alone at night.
While growing, the city is noted by some as lacking in diverse attractions and shopping compared to larger cities.
The population has shown a recent annual decline of -0.41%, suggesting a potential slowdown in growth.

Questions about Williston

What people ask about living in and moving to Williston, North Dakota.

What types of housing are most common in Williston? Housing 1 answer

The housing market in Williston features a mix of single‑family detached homes, townhomes, and newer apartment complexes. Detached homes are predominant in suburban developments, while townhomes and apartments are often located near commercial centers. Real‑estate listings on local property portals will show current availability, price ranges, and neighborhood characteristics.

Is Williston considered a safe place to live? Safety 1 answer

Crime statistics for Williston indicate that property crimes are moderate, while violent crime rates are lower than the national average. Neighborhood safety can vary, so reviewing recent crime maps and speaking with local residents provides a clearer picture of specific areas. Community watch groups and local law enforcement websites also offer updates on safety initiatives.

How does the cost of living in Williston compare to national averages? Cost of Living 1 answer

Williston’s cost of living is slightly below the national average. Housing, groceries, and utilities tend to be more affordable, while some specialty items may be pricier due to the region’s remote nature. For a detailed breakdown, consult the city’s official statistics portal or local economic reports, which provide year‑by‑year comparisons of consumer price indices.

What industries drive employment in Williston? Jobs & Economy 1 answer

Williston’s economy is largely supported by energy extraction, particularly oil and gas, as well as related services such as engineering, logistics, and maintenance. Additional sectors include construction, healthcare, and retail. Job boards focused on the region and professional networking sites often list openings that match engineering skill sets.

How are the public schools in Williston rated? Schools & Education 1 answer

Public schools in Williston generally receive solid ratings, with several schools earning high marks for academic performance and extracurricular programs. Performance reports and school ratings can be accessed through the district’s online portal, which includes standardized test scores, teacher qualifications, and student‑to‑teacher ratios.

What public transportation options are available in Williston? Getting Around 1 answer

Williston offers a modest public transit system that includes bus routes covering downtown, residential neighborhoods, and key commercial zones. Service frequency is typically limited to weekday peak hours, so planning routes in advance is essential. The city’s transit authority publishes schedules and fare information on its website.

Where can I find quality healthcare facilities in Williston? Healthcare 1 answer

The city hosts a network of healthcare providers that includes primary care clinics, specialty practices, and an emergency department that operates 24/7. Patient reviews, provider directories, and health system websites provide details on services offered, staff credentials, and insurance acceptance. Checking state health department listings can also confirm facility accreditation.

What recreational activities are popular in Williston? Things to Do 1 answer

Williston offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and winter sports in nearby parks and lakes. The city also hosts seasonal festivals, art exhibits, and community concerts. Local tourism boards and community calendars list event schedules and venue details, helping residents discover seasonal highlights.

What should I know about moving my household to Williston? Moving Here 1 answer

When moving to Williston, consider the local climate—cold winters and occasional severe weather—so plan for appropriate packing and vehicle preparation. Hiring a reputable moving company that operates in the region can streamline the process. Additionally, check the city’s utility setup for electricity, water, and internet to ensure a smooth transition.

What is the climate like in Williston throughout the year? General 1 answer

Williston experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold, sometimes harsh, winters. Summer temperatures can reach the mid‑80s°F, while winter lows often drop below zero. Seasonal precipitation includes moderate snowfall, so residents typically invest in winter gear and vehicles with appropriate tires. Checking historical weather data on national climate databases can help plan for seasonal variations.

Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Williston? Add your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Urblytica benchmarks its Cost of Living Index against a United States national average baseline of 100. A score of 115 means a city is approximately 15% more expensive than the national average, while a score of 85 indicates it is 15% more affordable. This composite calculation is weighted across six primary expenditure categories: housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods.

Urblytica aggregates housing data from multiple authoritative sources, including Multiple Listing Service (MLS) feeds, municipal property tax registries, the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS), and verified historical deed transactions. This multi-tier aggregation ensures precision in tracking median home values and rental rates.

A municipality must meet minimum data-density thresholds—including consistent reporting population samples from the U.S. Census and active residential or commercial real estate transaction feeds—to ensure statistical significance before a complete scoring profile is published.

When primary agencies (such as the Bureau of Labor Statistics or U.S. Census Bureau) issue historical data revisions or benchmark corrections, Urblytica's data pipeline automatically re-indexes affected historical archives to maintain longitudinal trend accuracy.

U.S. affordability calculations incorporate federal income tax brackets, state-specific income tax rates, and local municipal tax variations to evaluate the true net tax drag on median household earnings across different states and cities.

Local county and municipal property tax millage rates are factored directly into the housing component of the cost-of-living index to reflect recurring annual tax burdens for homeowners.

The platform aggregates state sales taxes alongside county and city surtaxes to measure consumer basket purchasing power parity accurately across different retail jurisdictions.

Utility calculations apply regional seasonal consumption weightings, incorporating high summer air conditioning loads in southern states and heavy winter heating demands in northern states.

The index tracks average out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, routine outpatient visit costs, and regional health insurance premium benchmarks published by federal health agencies.

Educational metrics aggregate state standardized testing benchmarks, student-to-teacher ratios, high school graduation rates, and per-pupil expenditure data published by state departments of education.

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