A+
4%
Overall NAT. AVG.
2%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
20%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Dickinson North Dakota National
Cost of living10495100
Groceries9899100
Health care9999100
Housing12086100
Transportation9498100
Utilities103104100
Lifestyle & Entertainment9597100
Household Items9999100
Education & Childcare9698100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Dickinson, ND

Getting a feel for the cost of living in Dickinson is essential for anyone planning to relocate, as it empowers them to make informed financial decisions, secure a comfortable lifestyle and maintain financial stability in their new environment. The cost of living in Dickinson is 104, which is 4% higher than the national average. Relocating individuals may need to adjust their savings and investment strategies based on the cost of living in the new location. It influences decisions about retirement planning, investments and financial goals.

The cost of living in Dickinson aligns closely with the national average when compared to other cities across the nation. Everyday essentials such as groceries, household expenses, health care and utility bills are priced at a level consistent with the average in similar urban areas. Dickinson residents can anticipate that their daily expenses won't be significantly higher than those in an average city, ensuring that the cost of living remains manageable.

Housing costs are a very significant part of the Dickinson cost of living index and generally encompass a large percentage of take-home income. Unfortunately, in this area, the housing costs for both homes and rentals were 20.3% more than the average city. This includes things like home and rent prices, mortgage rates and insurance.

Is Dickinson Affordable?

Is Dickinson affordable? This is a pivotal question, especially when mulling over a move, as affordability carries substantial weight in your decision-making process. Factors such as the cost of living index (discussed earlier), housing expenses and income levels all contribute to a location's affordability. For instance, in Dickinson, the median home price is 31.3% higher than the national average and monthly rent prices are 5.4% lower than the typical rates. Additionally, the median income levels play a role in affordability, with Dickinson boasting a median household income of $98,230, 20.8% higher than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Dickinson?

Transportation: In cities with limited or no public transportation, residents may find it necessary to own and maintain vehicles, thereby elevating the cost of living. Monthly expenditures include fuel, insurance, routine maintenance and potential lease or financing commitments. In Dickinson, the transportation index stands at 5.8% lower than the national average.

Taxes: Locations with elevated tax rates, encompassing both sales and income taxes, can be a factor in driving up the cost of living. When you're paying more in taxes for everyday household expenses, it naturally translates into higher expenses. Similarly, a higher income tax rate can also contribute to an overall higher cost of living. In Dickinson, the standard sales tax rate starts at 5%, and the income tax rates commence at 1.1%.

Utilities: Like everything else, utilities costs can range significantly depending on factors like climate, energy sources available, location and even state regulations. Things like electricity, water, heating and waste disposal costs can be higher or lower, depending on the city or state. The utilities index in Dickinson comes in at 2.8% higher than the national average.

Where is the Data From?

The Dickinson cost of living data above is designed around a U.S. average baseline of 100, allowing for easy comparisons of relative living costs. Housing incorporates U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other figures are AI-assisted estimates that account for regional price trends, climate, transportation dynamics, and common everyday expenses. These values are best used as directional city-to-city comparisons.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Dickinson is 10% higher than the North Dakota average
  • The cost of living in Dickinson is 4% higher than the national average
  • Dickinson housing is 20% higher than the national average
  • North Dakota general sales tax is 2% lower than the national average
  • North Dakota state income tax is 58% lower than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Dickinson

See all the best places to live around Dickinson

Compare Dickinson, ND Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$143,044$11,920$3,337$4,292
      Renters$72,955$6,080$1,702$2,189
      A good indicator of the general affordability of housing in Dickinson, ND, is the percentage of monthly income that should be spent on housing expenses, otherwise known as the debt-to-income ratio (DTI). Generally speaking, no more than 28 percent of your total gross income should be spent on your housing expenses and not more than 36 percent of your gross income on total expenses, including debts. In Dickinson, the median monthly income is $143,044 for those who own their own homes. Under the standard rule, that income level would allow for $3,337 to be budgeted for housing expenses each month, at the most. Renters, on the other hand, earn about $72,955, per the median income in the area. That would allow for renters to spend up to $1,702 on monthly rental expenses.

      North Dakota Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      North Dakota 5% 8%

      North Dakota Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      North Dakota 1.1% 2.9%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Gladstone, ND273964.2%
      South Heart, ND4591088.4%
      Dickinson, ND23,6141044.4%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Kihei, HI23,61617675.8%
      Crystal, MN23,6181054.8%
      Farragut, TN23,60712323.3%
      Eastmont, WA23,60314848.2%
      East San Gabriel, CA23,60118584.8%
      Dickinson, ND23,6141044.4%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.