Let the numbers do the talking.
Bismarck, ND vs Jamestown, ND
Bismarck, ND vs Jamestown, ND: What the data shows
Bismarck, ND is in Bismarck, ND while Jamestown, ND is in Jamestown, ND — both in the same state. On home prices, Jamestown, ND is the more affordable option at $200,400 median — $65,700 less than Bismarck, ND's $266,100. WYLT rates Bismarck, ND as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Jamestown, ND as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Jamestown, ND has the stronger safety profile of the two. Bismarck, ND has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Jamestown, ND has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Bismarck, ND has Low flood risk and Jamestown, ND has Low flood risk.
Bismarck, ND is the more walkable neighborhood. Bismarck, ND scores 15/100 (car-dependent) versus Jamestown, ND's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Bismarck, ND has the higher school rating — Bismarck, ND rates 8.5/10 and Jamestown, ND rates 8.4/10.
| Category | Bismarck, ND | Jamestown, ND |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $266K | $200K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $914 | $745 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $66K ✓ Higher income | $57K |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 15/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 1/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 1/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.5/10 ✓ Better schools | 8.4/10 |
| Best for | Families with childrenRemote workers looking for affordable housingFirst‑time home buyers | Remote workersFamiliesRetirees |
Bottom line
For those prioritizing affordability and a quiet lifestyle, Jamestown is the better choice due to its lower median home price. However, Bismarck offers slightly better schools and a slightly more developed city environment, making it a better fit for families or remote workers who still want some amenities. Overall, Bismarck is a better option for those willing to pay a premium for its relatively stronger schools and city features.
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