Let the numbers do the talking.
Grand Forks, ND vs Williston, ND
Grand Forks, ND vs Williston, ND: What the data shows
Grand Forks, ND is in Grand Forks, ND while Williston, ND is in Williston, ND — both in the same state. On home prices, Grand Forks, ND is the more affordable option at $262,000 median — $8,100 less than Williston, ND's $270,100. WYLT rates Grand Forks, ND as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Williston, ND as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Williston, ND has the stronger safety profile of the two. Grand Forks, ND has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Williston, ND has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Grand Forks, ND has Low flood risk and Williston, ND has Low flood risk.
Grand Forks, ND is the more walkable neighborhood. Grand Forks, ND scores 44/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Williston, ND's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Grand Forks, ND has the higher school rating — Grand Forks, ND rates 8.1/10 and Williston, ND rates 7.8/10.
| Category | Grand Forks, ND | Williston, ND |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $262K ✓ Lower price | $270K |
| Median Rent | $941 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $65K | $86K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 44/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 31/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.8/10 |
| Best for | FamiliesRetireesSmall‑town lovers | Oil and gas workersFamilies looking for affordable housingFirst‑time homebuyers |
Bottom line
For families, retirees, or remote workers prioritizing affordability and a quiet lifestyle, Grand Forks might be a slightly better option, despite its drawbacks, due to slightly better schools and more services available. However, for oil and gas workers or those looking for super cheap housing, Williston could be more suitable, despite its isolation. Ultimately, if budget is a top concern and a slower pace of life is tolerable, Williston edges out Grand Forks, while Grand Forks is more suitable for those not in the oil industry.
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