Let the numbers do the talking.
Grafton, ND vs Grand Forks, ND
Grafton, ND vs Grand Forks, ND: What the data shows
Grafton, ND is in Grafton, ND while Grand Forks, ND is in Grand Forks, ND — both in the same state. On home prices, Grafton, ND is the more affordable option at $121,800 median — $140,200 less than Grand Forks, ND's $262,000. WYLT rates Grafton, ND as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Grand Forks, ND as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Grafton, ND has the stronger safety profile of the two. Grafton, ND has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Grand Forks, ND has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Grafton, ND has Low flood risk and Grand Forks, ND has Low flood risk.
Grand Forks, ND is the more walkable neighborhood. Grafton, ND scores N/A/100 versus Grand Forks, ND's 44/100 (mostly car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Grand Forks, ND has the higher school rating — Grafton, ND rates 7/10 and Grand Forks, ND rates 8.1/10.
| Category | Grafton, ND | Grand Forks, ND |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $122K ✓ Lower price | $262K |
| Median Rent | $646 ✓ Lower rent | $941 |
| Median Income | $66K ✓ Higher income | $65K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 44/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 31/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | N/A | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 8.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | budget‑conscious familiesremote workersretirees looking for quiet life | FamiliesRetireesSmall‑town lovers |
Bottom line
For those prioritizing affordability and a quiet life, Grafton may be the better choice, despite its limitations. However, if you value slightly better schools and a marginally more walkable environment, Grand Forks is a better option, albeit at a significantly higher cost. Ultimately, both neighborhoods have notable trade-offs, so it's essential to weigh your individual needs and priorities before making a decision.
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