As the capital of North Dakota, Bismarck is home to some of the state's most important government buildings. The city has a population of over 75,000, and the government employs roughly 11,000 residents, making it the area's largest employer. Healthcare is the second largest employment field, as the city's hospitals and clinics extend their state-of-the-art services across four states. Abundant farmland means agriculture is also an economic strength, and nearly 50 parks make up the rest of the city's green space. "I'm probably biased, but I think we just have an incredible quality of life with so many opportunities to be active," says Dana Schaar Jahner, Bismarck Parks and Recreation District's community relations manager.
Established on the land of the Mandan Nation, Bismarck has a long indigenous history. Many tribes live along the Missouri River, and the city has one of the nation's largest collections of Plains Indian artifacts. United Tribes Technical College carries on Native American legacies through its expansive Native art gallery and annual International Powwow. Even as a state capitol, the city maintains a small-town feeling through the interconnectedness of its residents. "We are very kind people. There's a lot of neighborhood loyalty, and if someone needs help, everybody pitches in," says Crystal Neumann, a city native and broker/owner at CORE Real Estate Advisors.
Bismarck is the North Dakota State Capitol.
Bismarck offers a small town feel with big city amenities.
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County-wide trails and state attractions
Bismarck follows the Missouri River, a major destination for swimming, boating and trophy fishing. The city's expansive parks system encompasses roughly 2000 acres and over 80 miles of trails run through the area. "We are always looking at expanding our trail system, and we work closely with the city of Bismarck on developing new neighborhood parks as the city grows," says Schaar Jahner. Sertoma Park is one of the district's most popular parks. Located along the river, it's home to the Dakota Zoo and the Super Slide Amusement Park, two major recreational attractions. Lions Park's specialty is its seasonal amenities, like an ice-skating rink in the winter and a waterpark in the summer. The arts are on display at Sleepy Hollow Park, which holds performances at its hilltop amphitheater.
Dakota Stage is another popular spot for theatrical performances. Other arts and culture attractions include the city's various art galleries and the Bismarck-Mandan Art Trail. On Capitol Grounds, the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum preserves important state history and Indigenous culture through interactive exhibits and extensive collections. In November 2024, the museum celebrated the 135th anniversary of North Dakota's statehood.
North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum has an impressive natural history collection.
The Dakota Stage Playhouse is a historic theater in downtown Bismarck.
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Van Horn architecture in the historic district
The median home price in Bismarck is around $350,000, compared to the national median of about $407,000. Typical styles include bungalows, split-levels, ranch-style homes and the occasional Tudor-inspired house. Most homes were built between the mid-1900s and the mid-2010s. New construction lines the city's outer edges, where custom and contemporary designs sell for upwards of $1.5 million. North Hills is known for being an upscale neighborhood at the heart of a popular shopping district, while Wachter is home to the Mayor of Bismarck's mansion. The Cathedral Historic District has roughly 40 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places and features work by the architect Arthur Van Horn.
Split level homes are a popular home style in Bismarck.
Small bungalows are easily found near Bismarck's downtown area.
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Private education and United Tribes
Students are under the Bismarck School District, which has an A-minus Niche grade. Niche ranks it as the second-best school district in North Dakota. Many of the district's public and private schools are highly rated, like Dakota Adventist Academy. Niche ranks it as the third-best private high school in the state and gives it an A-minus rating.
The city has two colleges and a private Catholic university. Although outside city limits, many locals attend the B-rated University of Mary, and sports fans flock to watch the Marauders play. The C-rated United Tribes Technical College serves students from over 75 tribal nations.
United Tribes Technical College is a private tribal community college.
University of Mary is a private college in the Bismarck area.
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International Powwow draws people from all over the country
The United Tribes Technical College International Powwow is one of the city's most significant cultural events. Every September, dancers dressed in vibrant traditional regalia compete before a panel of judges. Between performances, skilled artisans sell handmade goods and traditional foods. Every summer, the Capitol A'Fair invites over 100 artists to the city's Capitol Grounds. Attendees enjoy live music and activities for all ages. The parks district has two major seasonal celebrations. One is Flurry Fest, a winter festival that encourages people to stay active during the colder months with cross-country skiing and ice skating.
Anima Cucina is a semifinalist for major award
A few large shopping centers are scattered throughout the city, with big-box stores for everyday essentials and grocery needs. The Downtown Business Association of Bismarck supports the growth and development of the city's businesses, especially the economic success of the downtown area. Kirkwood Mall anchors Downtown Bismarck, offering almost 100 brand-name stores and restaurants. Throughout the rest of downtown are various small businesses and local restaurants, like The Blarney Stone Pub, the city's only authentic Irish pub. Anima Cucina, an Italian pasta and wine bar, is a 2024 James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef.
Anima Cucina is a locally owned Italian cafe and 2024 James Beard finalist.
The Kirkwood Mall has both boutique and big box retailers in Bismarck.
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Multiple interstates stretch across Bismarck
The city is heavily car-dependent, but Capital Area Transit buses offer six routes to the Bismarck and Mandan areas. Three major east-west highways pass over the Missouri River: Business Loop 94 and Interstates 94 and 194. Highway 83 is the city's primary north-south route. The Bismarck Municipal Airport offers direct flights to seven major airports, with an eighth destination to be added in June 2025.
Lower property crime and annual weather concerns
Data from the Bismarck Police Department shows that violent crime in the city has trended lower than the national average for decades, and property crime decreased in 2023. The department's crime prevention and community engagement section played a pivotal role in this decrease through its various programs, like the Citizen Police Academy.
The city experiences four seasons, and according to the National Weather Service, it does see extremes, like temperatures below zero during its coldest month, January. "We get snowstorms, we get hail, and while Bismarck doesn't have many floods, we get flash flood warnings where it just downpours," says Neumann. Annual rainfall settles around 20 inches, and snowfall ranges between 40 and 60 inches. The city government mitigates extreme weather through a Community Rating System program that entitles residents to lower flood insurance programs. They also send snowplows to emergency roads and school routes first during winter, followed by all other roads.
Written By
Isabel Butler
Photography Contributed By
Brandon Rowell
Video By
Francisco de la Vera
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On average, homes in Bismarck, ND sell after 29 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Bismarck, ND over the last 12 months is $345,950, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
4-Bedroom, 3-Bath Home with Attached Three-Stall Garage in South Bismarck. This home features two main-level bedrooms, including the primary suite with a large closet and main-floor laundry. The lower level offers two additional bedrooms and a family room with a gas fireplace. Outside, enjoy a maintenance-free deck, paver patio, and partially fenced backyard, all near shopping, restaurants,
Rare opportunity to own a main-floor 3-bedroom, 2-bath condo in a desirable 55+ community. This 1,476 sq ft one-level unit features a large 2-stall attached garage and a private patio—perfect for easy, low-maintenance living. The open kitchen with center island connects seamlessly to the dining and living areas. The primary bedroom includes a 3⁄4 bath and walk-in closet, while two additional
Welcome home to this stunning new patio twin home in the highly sought after Elk Ridge subdivision of northwest Bismarck. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,756 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, this home combines modern elegance with everyday comfort and functionality.The entryway welcomes you with an oversized chandelier, coat closet, and built-in bench with
Look no further! This spacious 5-bed 3-bath home has so much to offer, including: an open and inviting floor plan on both levels making it perfect for gatherings large or small; beautiful laminate wood flooring graces the home; wainscoting and built-ins add to the timeless charm; lots of windows let the sun shine in & offer incredible views. Many areas have a fresh coat of new paint as well as
Great Opportunity—Investment or Owner-Occupied Duplex in Bismarck!This versatile duplex offers endless possibilities! The upper unit features 3 spacious bedrooms, a full bath, and a large kitchen with dining area that flows into a living room. The lower unit has a private entrance, along with 2 bedrooms, a full bath, and a living room, kitchen, and dining space.A shared laundry area is
Open House Sunday, November 2nd From 12:00-1:30!Nestled in a desirable Central Bismarck neighborhood near walking and biking paths—and just a short distance from a golf course—this well-maintained ranch-style home offers space, comfort, and timeless appeal. Come inside to a bright, welcoming living room filled with natural light, featuring a cozy wood-burning fireplace and a charming bay
At The Earl Apartments and Twin Homes, we offer a premium living experience with modern amenities designed for comfort, convenience, and community.Resident Amenities:Fitness center, clubroom, party room, business center, and sauna for relaxationPet-Friendly Living:Pets welcome with deposit, deluxe on-site animal wash stationConvenience Services:Online rent
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