Let the numbers do the talking.
Rolla, ND vs Williston, ND
Rolla, ND vs Williston, ND: What the data shows
Rolla, ND is in Rolla, ND while Williston, ND is in Williston, ND — both in the same state. On home prices, Rolla, ND is the more affordable option at $104,200 median — $165,900 less than Williston, ND's $270,100. WYLT rates Rolla, 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.
Rolla, ND has the stronger safety profile of the two. Rolla, ND has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Williston, ND has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Rolla, ND has Low flood risk and Williston, ND has Low flood risk.
Rolla, ND is the more walkable neighborhood. Rolla, ND scores 11/100 (car-dependent) versus Williston, ND's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Williston, ND has the higher school rating — Rolla, ND rates 7/10 and Williston, ND rates 7.8/10.
| Category | Rolla, ND | Williston, ND |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $104K ✓ Lower price | $270K |
| Median Rent | $660 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $57K | $86K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 11/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | N/A | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 7.8/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families looking for a quiet homeRetirees who don’t need daily amenitiesRemote workers with reliable internet | Oil and gas workersFamilies looking for affordable housingFirst‑time homebuyers |
Bottom line
For a family with school-age children, I would recommend Williston over Rolla due to its slightly higher school rating. However, for retirees or individuals prioritizing affordability and a quiet life, Rolla might be a better fit. Both neighborhoods are better suited for a specific demographic rather than a general recommendation.
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