North Dakota Population Nears 800,000 Milestone

State sees steady growth for fourth consecutive year, with working-age population also increasing.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 6:47pm

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North Dakota's population grew for the fourth consecutive year to a record high of 799,358 people as of July 1, 2025, according to U.S. Census estimates. State Demographer Nigel Haarstad said the state has likely since surpassed the 800,000 mark for the first time, based on current growth rates.

Why it matters

North Dakota's population growth reflects the state's efforts to improve quality of life and attract new residents, which could have positive economic implications. Reaching the 800,000 milestone is a significant symbolic achievement for the state.

The details

Gov. Kelly Armstrong attributed the state's population growth to factors like historic property tax relief, phone-free schools, and robust economic development. The state's working-age population has also grown for three straight years to 473,249, the highest since 2020.

  • North Dakota's population grew for the fourth consecutive year as of July 1, 2025.
  • The state was just 642 people from crossing 800,000 for the first time as of July 2025.
  • North Dakota likely crossed the 800,000 population milestone in August 2025.

The players

Kelly Armstrong

The governor of North Dakota.

Nigel Haarstad

The state demographer of North Dakota.

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What they’re saying

“North Dakota continues to see steady growth and attract new residents as one of the best places to live, work and raise a family.”

— Kelly Armstrong, Governor

“At current growth rates, North Dakota likely crossed this milestone in August 2025.”

— Nigel Haarstad, State Demographer

What’s next

The state will likely celebrate reaching the 800,000 population milestone in the coming months.

The takeaway

North Dakota's steady population growth, driven by factors like economic development and quality of life improvements, demonstrates the state's ability to attract and retain residents, which could have positive long-term implications for the state's economy and future.