Average Rent in Bismarck, ND↑ Rents rising 7.1% YoY🔺 6th priciest in ND

Bismarck, ND has rental prices ranging from $828/month to $1,718/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $917/month — 34% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $83,982/year, spending $917/month on a 1-bedroom represents 13% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Bismarck Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,023/month, Bismarck ranks #6 most expensive of the 51 cities tracked in North Dakota — pricier than 67% of all US cities in our data.

The Bismarck Rental Market

The Bismarck, ND area has a population of about 134,286 and 27% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Bismarck, ND have risen by $68/month (7.1%) over the past year, from $955 to $1,023. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Bismarck, ND without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $36,680. The local median household income of $83,982 exceeds that threshold by $47,302, making Bismarck relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Bismarck, ND is $378,396, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 30.8. With a break-even horizon of approximately 31 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.

Is Bismarck, ND Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Bismarck?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Bismarck

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.