City Profile
Williston, North Dakota
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
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.
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.
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.
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Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
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.
Income
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.
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Weather
Climate
Mobility
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.
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Community Q&A
Questions about Williston
What people ask about living in and moving to Williston, North Dakota.
What types of housing are most common in Williston?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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?
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.
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