North Dakota Surpasses 800,000 Population Milestone

State Demographer says growth rate indicates state reached new population high in 2025.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 10:31pm

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According to North Dakota's State Demographer Nigel Haarstad, the state has likely surpassed 800,000 residents for the first time ever, based on current growth rates. This announcement came on the same day that Governor Kelly Armstrong reported the state's fourth consecutive year of record high population, reaching 799,358 as of July 1, 2025.

Why it matters

North Dakota's growing population reflects the state's continued economic and residential appeal, as it has attracted new residents in recent years. This milestone underscores the state's efforts to improve quality of life through initiatives like historic property tax relief, phone-free schools, and robust economic development.

The details

Haarstad stated the state likely surpassed the 800,000 population mark sometime in August 2025, based on the state's current growth trajectory. Governor Armstrong credited the state's progress on key quality of life issues as a major factor in North Dakota's population gains in recent years.

  • North Dakota reached 799,358 residents as of July 1, 2025.
  • The state likely surpassed 800,000 residents sometime in August 2025.

The players

Nigel Haarstad

North Dakota's State Demographer.

Kelly Armstrong

Governor 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. From historic property tax relief and reform to phone-free schools and robust economic development, our state made significant progress this past year to improve the quality of life for our citizens, which will always be our top priority.”

— Kelly Armstrong, Governor

What’s next

The state will likely release official 2025 population figures in early 2026, confirming whether North Dakota has surpassed the 800,000 resident milestone.

The takeaway

North Dakota's growing population underscores the state's efforts to enhance quality of life and make it an attractive destination for new residents, a trend that has contributed to four consecutive years of record population highs.