Average Rent in Ward County, ND↑ Rents rising 6.3% YoY🔺 5th priciest in ND
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 69,232
Market Overview
Ward County, ND has rental prices ranging from $721/month to $1,746/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $808/month — 42% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $79,273/year, spending $808/month on a 1-bedroom represents 12% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Ward County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,040/month, Ward County ranks #5 most expensive of the 51 cities tracked in North Dakota — pricier than 69% of all US cities in our data.
The Ward County Rental Market
The Ward County, ND area has a population of about 69,232 and 38% of households renting rather than owning. That is close to the US average renter share of ~34%.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Ward County, ND have risen by $62/month (6.3%) over the past year, from $978 to $1,040. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Ward County, ND without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $32,320. The local median household income of $79,273 exceeds that threshold by $46,953, making Ward County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Ward County, ND has an unemployment rate of 1.9%, 2.0 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 Ward 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 | — |
| 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 | — |
| McKenzie County | $1,090 | $1,096 | $1,351 | $1,628 | — |
Rent or Buy in Ward County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Ward County data
Buying breaks even after 3 years — worth it if you stay 3+ years.
Living in Ward 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 Ward CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in NDSee how Ward County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Ward CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋ND Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections