Average Rent in McKenzie County, ND🔺 2nd priciest in ND
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 14,280
Market Overview
McKenzie County, ND has rental prices ranging from $1,090/month to $2,235/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,096/month — 22% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $88,289/year, spending $1,096/month on a 1-bedroom represents 15% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How McKenzie County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,351/month, McKenzie County ranks #2 most expensive of the 51 cities tracked in North Dakota — pricier than 88% of all US cities in our data.
The McKenzie County Rental Market
The McKenzie County, ND area has a population of about 14,280 and 45% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs above the US average of ~34%, pointing to a competitive rental market where vacancies clear quickly and rents are less negotiable.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in McKenzie County, ND have fallen by $1/month (0.1%) over the past year, from $1,352 to $1,351. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in McKenzie County, ND without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $43,840. The local median household income of $88,289 exceeds that threshold by $44,449, making McKenzie County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
McKenzie County, ND has an unemployment rate of 2.2%, 1.7 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is McKenzie County, ND Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in NDlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bismarck | $828 | $917 | $1,023 | $1,433 | — |
| Ward County | $721 | $808 | $1,040 | $1,457 | — |
| Williams County | $1,003 | $1,026 | $1,154 | $1,617 | — |
| Stark County | $850 | $855 | $1,020 | $1,429 | — |
| Stutsman County | $708 | $713 | $928 | $1,300 | — |
| Richland County | $703 | $707 | $928 | $1,300 | — |
Rent or Buy in McKenzie County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real McKenzie County data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Living in McKenzie County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in McKenzie CountySalary needed to afford rent here
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