Let the numbers do the talking.
Grafton, ND vs West Fargo, ND
Grafton, ND vs West Fargo, ND: What the data shows
Grafton, ND is in Grafton, ND while West Fargo, ND is in West Fargo, ND — both in the same state. On home prices, Grafton, ND is the more affordable option at $121,800 median — $161,400 less than West Fargo, ND's $283,200. WYLT rates Grafton, ND as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and West Fargo, 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. West Fargo, ND has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Grafton, ND has Low flood risk and West Fargo, ND has High flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, West Fargo, ND has the higher school rating — Grafton, ND rates 7/10 and West Fargo, ND rates 8.5/10.
| Category | Grafton, ND | West Fargo, ND |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $122K ✓ Lower price | $283K |
| Median Rent | $646 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $66K | $97K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 1/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 1/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | N/A | 25 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 8.5/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | budget‑conscious familiesremote workersretirees looking for quiet life | Families with kidsCommuters to Fargo downtownFirst‑time home buyers |
Bottom line
For budget-conscious families or those seeking a quiet life, Grafton might be a more affordable option despite its drawbacks. However, if strong schools and a decent flood-risk mitigation strategy are crucial, West Fargo's higher price may be justified for families with kids or commuters to Fargo downtown. Ultimately, West Fargo offers more conventional suburban living for those willing to tolerate its challenges.
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