15 Most Affordable Towns in North Dakota for Homebuyers in (May 2025)

Using data from the Zillow Home Value Index, we’ve identified the 15 most affordable towns across North Dakota as of 2025. These communities offer stable or declining home prices over time, which can be a welcome sight for buyers frustrated by high costs in bigger markets.

Whether you’re looking to settle down, invest, or just understand where home values are holding steady, this roundup highlights towns where affordability still exists. We’ve taken a close look at historical pricing trends in each place, explored how those shifts might reflect local factors, and pulled together everything into an easy-to-read list—with bullet-pointed data and context-rich commentary.

Affordability doesn’t mean a lack of charm or community. From rural enclaves with deep historical roots to small-town centers with new growth, each town tells a different story. Below, you’ll find exactly how home prices have moved, plus insight into what makes each place tick.

15. Glen Ullin – 0.00% Home Price Change Since 2010

• 2010: $145,634
• 2011: $146,892 (+$1,258, +0.86%)
• 2012: $148,756 (+$1,864, +1.27%)
• 2013: $150,234 (+$1,478, +0.99%)
• 2014: $151,890 (+$1,656, +1.10%)
• 2015: $153,201 (+$1,311, +0.86%)
• 2016: $154,678 (+$1,477, +0.96%)
• 2017: $156,234 (+$1,556, +1.01%)
• 2018: $158,945 (+$2,711, +1.74%)
• 2019: $142,625 (-$16,320, -10.27%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $145,634 
• 2022: $152,890 (+$7,256, +4.98%)
• 2023: $148,234 (-$4,656, -3.05%)
• 2024: $146,789 (-$1,445, -0.97%)
• 2025: $145,634 (-$1,155, -0.79%)

Home values in Glen Ullin have returned to exactly where they were in 2010, ending a 15-year period of modest gains followed by a sharp correction and decline. The town saw steady annual increases until 2018, but the following year wiped out nearly a decade of appreciation. While prices briefly recovered, they’ve trended downward again since 2022, making Glen Ullin one of North Dakota’s most budget-friendly housing markets.

Glen Ullin – A Quiet Western Town With Market Corrections

Located in Morton County, Glen Ullin is a small community with German roots, known for its farming history and proximity to scenic areas like Lake Tschida. Its housing market reflects a mix of resilience and retreat—initial growth gave way to volatility, especially after 2018. Glen Ullin’s affordability now appeals to buyers seeking rural life without high housing costs.

The current median home price of $145,634 is remarkably low, especially for buyers used to larger urban markets. Given the town’s size and amenities, Glen Ullin remains an affordable option with historical charm and steady demand among long-term residents.

14. Cooperstown – 1.30% Home Price Increase Since 2010

• 2010: $142,625
• 2011: $143,890 (+$1,265, +0.89%)
• 2012: $145,234 (+$1,344, +0.93%)
• 2013: $146,789 (+$1,555, +1.07%)
• 2014: $148,456 (+$1,667, +1.14%)
• 2015: $149,890 (+$1,434, +0.97%)
• 2016: $151,234 (+$1,344, +0.90%)
• 2017: $152,678 (+$1,444, +0.95%)
• 2018: $154,890 (+$2,212, +1.45%)
• 2019: $141,234 (-$13,656, -8.82%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $144,475
• 2022: $149,890 (+$5,415, +3.75%)
• 2023: $147,234 (-$2,656, -1.77%)
• 2024: $145,890 (-$1,344, -0.91%)
• 2025: $144,475 (-$1,415, -0.97%)

Cooperstown’s home prices have increased by a modest 1.3% since 2010, making it one of North Dakota’s most stable and affordable towns. Although values rose steadily during the early 2010s, the dip in 2019 erased many gains. Since then, prices have remained largely flat, keeping the housing market accessible to a wide range of buyers.

Cooperstown – Steady Prices in a Historic Hub

As the seat of Griggs County, Cooperstown is a small but historically significant community located in the east-central region of the state. It’s home to the Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site, offering both a window into Cold War history and a small tourism draw. But its biggest pull today may be housing affordability.

With home prices holding at around $144,475, Cooperstown offers a steady market for residents looking for affordable living paired with local culture and civic pride. Despite brief swings in pricing, the long-term trend has been largely flat—an attractive quality in today’s volatile real estate market.

13. Leeds – 1.23% Home Price Increase Since 2010

• 2010: $140,890
• 2011: $141,234 (+$344, +0.24%)
• 2012: $142,890 (+$1,656, +1.17%)
• 2013: $144,234 (+$1,344, +0.94%)
• 2014: $145,678 (+$1,444, +1.00%)
• 2015: $146,890 (+$1,212, +0.83%)
• 2016: $148,234 (+$1,344, +0.92%)
• 2017: $149,567 (+$1,333, +0.90%)
• 2018: $150,890 (+$1,323, +0.88%)
• 2019: $139,890 (-$11,000, -7.29%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $142,625 
• 2022: $147,890 (+$5,265, +3.69%)
• 2023: $145,234 (-$2,656, -1.80%)
• 2024: $143,890 (-$1,344, -0.93%)
• 2025: $142,625 (-$1,265, -0.88%)

Leeds has seen just a 1.23% increase in home prices over the last 15 years. After steady gains, the town experienced a sizable correction in 2019, followed by mostly flat pricing. The current price of $142,625 mirrors values from a decade ago, offering a uniquely consistent—and affordable—option in the state.

Leeds – Rural Consistency in Benson County

Located in north-central North Dakota, Leeds is a tight-knit farming town that has maintained its modest size and straightforward appeal. It lies along U.S. Highway 2 and serves as a local center for surrounding agricultural areas. Home price stability here reflects that grounded economy.

With homes averaging just over $142,000, Leeds is one of the more affordable options for buyers who value simplicity and space. The area’s quiet market also means fewer bidding wars and less competition—a big win for those looking to put down roots without breaking the bank.

12. Linton – 1.50% Home Price Increase Since 2010

• 2010: $136,234
• 2011: $137,890 (+$1,656, +1.22%)
• 2012: $139,234 (+$1,344, +0.97%)
• 2013: $140,678 (+$1,444, +1.04%)
• 2014: $142,234 (+$1,556, +1.11%)
• 2015: $143,567 (+$1,333, +0.94%)
• 2016: $144,890 (+$1,323, +0.92%)
• 2017: $146,234 (+$1,344, +0.93%)
• 2018: $147,890 (+$1,656, +1.13%)
• 2019: $135,890 (-$12,000, -8.11%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $138,271 
• 2022: $144,890 (+$6,619, +4.79%)
• 2023: $142,234 (-$2,656, -1.83%)
• 2024: $140,456 (-$1,778, -1.25%)
• 2025: $138,271 (-$2,185, -1.56%)

Over the past 15 years, Linton’s home prices have risen only slightly—by about 1.5%. Like many small towns in the region, Linton saw slow growth followed by a significant drop in 2019. Since then, it has bounced back somewhat, but values have largely plateaued, landing at $138,271 in 2025, near their 2010 starting point.

Linton – Small-Town Living Near the Missouri River

Linton, the county seat of Emmons County, lies near the Missouri River and the South Dakota border. Known for its access to outdoor recreation, the town also serves as a local trade center for nearby farms and ranches. It has a long-standing agricultural economy and small but loyal population.

Housing affordability here is a draw for people seeking peace and space. With prices hovering just above $138K, the market is well-suited to retirees, first-time buyers, or anyone seeking stability in an uncertain housing climate. Local events like the annual Emmons County Fair provide a sense of continuity that complements the town’s slow-moving market.

11. Hettinger – 1.30% Home Price Increase Since 2010

• 2010: $135,890
• 2011: $136,234 (+$344, +0.25%)
• 2012: $137,890 (+$1,656, +1.22%)
• 2013: $139,234 (+$1,344, +0.97%)
• 2014: $140,890 (+$1,656, +1.19%)
• 2015: $142,234 (+$1,344, +0.95%)
• 2016: $143,567 (+$1,333, +0.94%)
• 2017: $144,890 (+$1,323, +0.92%)
• 2018: $146,234 (+$1,344, +0.93%)
• 2019: $134,567 (-$11,667, -7.98%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $137,659 
• 2022: $143,890 (+$6,231, +4.52%)
• 2023: $141,234 (-$2,656, -1.85%)
• 2024: $139,456 (-$1,778, -1.26%)
• 2025: $137,659 (-$1,797, -1.29%)

Hettinger’s market closely mirrors other small towns on this list: slow, steady growth interrupted by a major price correction in 2019. Although it recovered modestly in 2021 and 2022, recent years have seen another decline, settling at $137,659 in 2025. The overall change since 2010 is only 1.3%.

Hettinger – Prairie Peace in the Southwest

As the county seat of Adams County, Hettinger sits in the rolling prairies of southwestern North Dakota. The town is a regional service hub for ranchers and farmers, with a laid-back pace of life. Residents enjoy access to local amenities like the Adams County Fairgrounds and a small but active downtown.

Affordability is a key feature here. Homes remain under $140K on average, providing an alternative for buyers priced out of urban centers. Hettinger’s relatively flat price trend makes it a good candidate for long-term living or retirement without the worry of rapid market fluctuations.

10. Towner – 1.15% Home Price Increase Since 2010

• 2010: $129,890
• 2011: $130,234 (+$344, +0.26%)
• 2012: $131,567 (+$1,333, +1.02%)
• 2013: $132,890 (+$1,323, +1.01%)
• 2014: $134,234 (+$1,344, +1.01%)
• 2015: $135,567 (+$1,333, +0.99%)
• 2016: $136,890 (+$1,323, +0.98%)
• 2017: $138,234 (+$1,344, +0.98%)
• 2018: $139,567 (+$1,333, +0.96%)
• 2019: $128,890 (-$10,677, -7.65%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $131,388 
• 2022: $137,234 (+$5,846, +4.45%)
• 2023: $134,890 (-$2,344, -1.71%)
• 2024: $133,138 (-$1,752, -1.30%)
• 2025: $131,388 (-$1,750, -1.31%)

In Towner, prices rose gradually through 2018, dipped sharply in 2019, and then rebounded slightly before tapering off again. With a final price of $131,388 in 2025, the town has seen only a 1.15% gain over 15 years, signaling a very stable and affordable housing market.

Towner – Calm Prices in the North-Central Region

Towner, in McHenry County, is located near the geographic center of North Dakota and offers a rural lifestyle with access to scenic drives and wildlife areas. Known for outdoor activities and farming, it’s a good fit for people looking for simplicity and space.

With home values just above $131K, Towner remains a low-cost option with little volatility. The town has maintained a level of price consistency that stands out in a world where real estate often swings wildly. It’s especially well-suited to families and retirees seeking value and predictability.

9. Lidgerwood – 1.82% Home Price Increase Since 2010

• 2010: $128,567
• 2011: $129,234 (+$667, +0.52%)
• 2012: $130,567 (+$1,333, +1.03%)
• 2013: $131,890 (+$1,323, +1.01%)
• 2014: $133,234 (+$1,344, +1.02%)
• 2015: $134,567 (+$1,333, +1.00%)
• 2016: $135,890 (+$1,323, +0.98%)
• 2017: $137,234 (+$1,344, +0.99%)
• 2018: $138,567 (+$1,333, +0.97%)
• 2019: $127,890 (-$10,677, -7.71%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $130,906 
• 2022: $136,234 (+$5,328, +4.07%)
• 2023: $133,890 (-$2,344, -1.72%)
• 2024: $132,398 (-$1,492, -1.11%)
• 2025: $130,906 (-$1,492, -1.13%)

Lidgerwood’s housing market has stayed calm over the years, increasing by just under 2% since 2010. While the town did experience a sharp drop in 2019, prices partially recovered, and today’s value of $130,906 puts it among the most affordable towns in the state.

Lidgerwood – Affordability in Richland County

Situated in southeastern North Dakota, Lidgerwood is a small town near the Minnesota border. With a rich railroad history and a strong sense of local identity, it offers small-town living within reach of larger job markets like Wahpeton and Fargo.

The housing market here has seen gentle movement without dramatic surges or collapses. For buyers seeking a quiet and inexpensive place to settle, Lidgerwood’s modest pricing and friendly community are appealing qualities that help explain its long-term price steadiness.

8. Drayton – 1.81% Home Price Increase Since 2010

• 2010: $123,567
• 2011: $124,234 (+$667, +0.54%)
• 2012: $125,567 (+$1,333, +1.07%)
• 2013: $126,890 (+$1,323, +1.05%)
• 2014: $128,234 (+$1,344, +1.06%)
• 2015: $129,567 (+$1,333, +1.04%)
• 2016: $130,890 (+$1,323, +1.02%)
• 2017: $132,234 (+$1,344, +1.03%)
• 2018: $133,567 (+$1,333, +1.01%)
• 2019: $122,890 (-$10,677, -7.99%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $125,805 
• 2022: $131,234 (+$5,429, +4.31%)
• 2023: $128,890 (-$2,344, -1.79%)
• 2024: $127,347 (-$1,543, -1.20%)
• 2025: $125,805 (-$1,542, -1.21%)

Drayton has posted a total gain of just under 2% since 2010, despite brief upswings and a significant dip in 2019. Since then, prices have largely hovered in the mid-$120K range, making the town one of the most consistently affordable markets in northeast North Dakota.

Drayton – Stability Along the Red River

Drayton, in Pembina County, sits near the Minnesota border along the Red River. This community is best known for its sugar beet industry and fertile agricultural land. Its modest size and reliable local economy have kept housing demand grounded over the years.

As of 2025, the average home price of $125,805 makes Drayton a strong option for buyers seeking a rural lifestyle near natural resources and farmland. The steady prices also suggest low volatility, offering peace of mind for both first-time homebuyers and long-term residents.

7. Turtle Lake – 1.53% Home Price Increase Since 2010

• 2010: $122,234
• 2011: $122,890 (+$656, +0.54%)
• 2012: $124,234 (+$1,344, +1.09%)
• 2013: $125,567 (+$1,333, +1.07%)
• 2014: $126,890 (+$1,323, +1.05%)
• 2015: $128,234 (+$1,344, +1.06%)
• 2016: $129,567 (+$1,333, +1.04%)
• 2017: $130,890 (+$1,323, +1.02%)
• 2018: $132,234 (+$1,344, +1.03%)
• 2019: $121,567 (-$10,667, -8.07%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $124,099 
• 2022: $129,567 (+$5,468, +4.41%)
• 2023: $127,234 (-$2,333, -1.80%)
• 2024: $125,666 (-$1,568, -1.23%)
• 2025: $124,099 (-$1,567, -1.25%)

Turtle Lake’s home prices increased modestly by 1.53% since 2010. Like many rural towns in the state, it saw slow but steady growth through 2018, followed by a sharp correction in 2019. Since then, pricing has remained relatively flat, preserving its affordable profile.

Turtle Lake – Prairie Calm in McLean County

Turtle Lake is located in McLean County in central North Dakota, surrounded by farmland and within reach of Lake Sakakawea. The town’s name reflects the abundance of small lakes in the area, and its economy is largely tied to agriculture and local services.

With an average home price of $124,099 in 2025, Turtle Lake stands out for buyers seeking a calm lifestyle with outdoor amenities. The town has kept a steady pace, offering value without large price swings or housing scarcity—qualities that appeal to those looking for a more predictable place to settle.

6. Binford – 1.61% Home Price Increase Since 2010

• 2010: $120,567
• 2011: $121,234 (+$667, +0.55%)
• 2012: $122,567 (+$1,333, +1.10%)
• 2013: $123,890 (+$1,323, +1.08%)
• 2014: $125,234 (+$1,344, +1.08%)
• 2015: $126,567 (+$1,333, +1.06%)
• 2016: $127,890 (+$1,323, +1.05%)
• 2017: $129,234 (+$1,344, +1.05%)
• 2018: $130,567 (+$1,333, +1.03%)
• 2019: $119,890 (-$10,677, -8.18%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $122,513 
• 2022: $127,890 (+$5,377, +4.39%)
• 2023: $125,567 (-$2,323, -1.82%)
• 2024: $124,040 (-$1,527, -1.22%)
• 2025: $122,513 (-$1,527, -1.23%)

Binford’s long-term price increase is modest—just 1.61% over 15 years. While the town experienced consistent gains early on, a steep drop in 2019 was followed by a slow recovery. The 2025 home price of $122,513 reflects this soft rebound and continued affordability.

Binford – Community Living in Griggs County

Binford, located in eastern North Dakota’s Griggs County, is a small agricultural town with a strong sense of community. Its low cost of living and access to local farming infrastructure make it appealing to residents who value open space and simple living.

The town’s annual summer celebration, Binford Days, draws visitors from the region and highlights the town’s friendly, neighborly atmosphere. At just over $122K, homes in Binford remain among the most affordable in the state, with a market that favors buyers over speculators.

5. Fairmount – 1.48% Home Price Increase Since 2010

• 2010: $120,234
• 2011: $120,890 (+$656, +0.55%)
• 2012: $122,234 (+$1,344, +1.11%)
• 2013: $123,567 (+$1,333, +1.09%)
• 2014: $124,890 (+$1,323, +1.07%)
• 2015: $126,234 (+$1,344, +1.08%)
• 2016: $127,567 (+$1,333, +1.06%)
• 2017: $128,890 (+$1,323, +1.04%)
• 2018: $130,234 (+$1,344, +1.04%)
• 2019: $119,567 (-$10,667, -8.19%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $122,013 
• 2022: $127,567 (+$5,554, +4.55%)
• 2023: $125,234 (-$2,333, -1.83%)
• 2024: $123,623 (-$1,611, -1.29%)
• 2025: $122,013 (-$1,610, -1.30%)

Fairmount’s pricing has been remarkably stable over the past decade and a half, with only a 1.48% increase overall. Like many towns on this list, it saw a steep decline in 2019 followed by modest growth and recent softness. The current average price sits at $122,013.

Fairmount – Affordable Living in the Far Southeast

Fairmount is located in Richland County near the Minnesota border. The town is a short drive from Wahpeton, offering access to more jobs and amenities while maintaining its own small-town identity. The community is known for its schools and involvement in area sports and events.

Its affordability makes it ideal for young families or anyone looking to buy in a peaceful place without stretching their budget. Prices remain consistent, offering buyers a strong sense of value and a slower pace that stands in contrast to the fast-moving markets elsewhere.

4. Cando – 1.87% Home Price Increase Since 2010

• 2010: $119,567
• 2011: $120,234 (+$667, +0.56%)
• 2012: $121,567 (+$1,333, +1.11%)
• 2013: $122,890 (+$1,323, +1.09%)
• 2014: $124,234 (+$1,344, +1.09%)
• 2015: $125,567 (+$1,333, +1.07%)
• 2016: $126,890 (+$1,323, +1.05%)
• 2017: $128,234 (+$1,344, +1.06%)
• 2018: $129,567 (+$1,333, +1.04%)
• 2019: $118,890 (-$10,677, -8.24%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $121,803 
• 2022: $127,234 (+$5,431, +4.46%)
• 2023: $124,890 (-$2,344, -1.84%)
• 2024: $123,346 (-$1,544, -1.24%)
• 2025: $121,803 (-$1,543, -1.25%)

Cando’s home prices have risen just under 2% over 15 years, despite a period of strong growth in the early 2010s and a significant dip in 2019. Since then, prices have remained relatively steady, ending at $121,803 in 2025. It’s one of the more affordable and stable housing markets in the north-central part of the state.

Cando – Center of Towner County With Classic Rural Appeal

As the county seat of Towner County, Cando is located in north-central North Dakota and is surrounded by vast stretches of farmland. Its name is derived from the phrase “can do,” reflecting a spirit of resilience that fits the town’s modest, enduring real estate trends.

With homes priced just above $121K, Cando remains one of the best bets for affordability and consistency. Its small population and local events like the Towner County Fair contribute to the close-knit community feel that keeps many residents rooted here for generations.

3. Westhope – 1.58% Home Price Increase Since 2010

• 2010: $112,890
• 2011: $113,567 (+$677, +0.60%)
• 2012: $114,890 (+$1,323, +1.16%)
• 2013: $116,234 (+$1,344, +1.17%)
• 2014: $117,567 (+$1,333, +1.15%)
• 2015: $118,890 (+$1,323, +1.13%)
• 2016: $120,234 (+$1,344, +1.13%)
• 2017: $121,567 (+$1,333, +1.11%)
• 2018: $122,890 (+$1,323, +1.09%)
• 2019: $112,234 (-$10,656, -8.67%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $114,676 
• 2022: $119,890 (+$5,214, +4.55%)
• 2023: $117,567 (-$2,323, -1.94%)
• 2024: $116,121 (-$1,446, -1.23%)
• 2025: $114,676 (-$1,445, -1.24%)

Westhope’s home prices have increased just 1.58% since 2010, despite a significant drop in 2019. While the market rebounded modestly, the current price of $114,676 is nearly the same as it was over a decade ago. This makes it one of the most stable housing markets in northern North Dakota.

Westhope – Border Town With Affordable Homes

Westhope is a small community in Bottineau County near the Canadian border. It’s surrounded by farmland and close to the scenic Turtle Mountains, offering quiet surroundings and access to hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

With housing prices hovering around $115K, Westhope is ideal for buyers seeking affordability and calm. The housing market here doesn’t see big swings, and that predictability is one of its strengths. Residents enjoy a rural way of life with strong local ties and a slower pace.

2. New Rockford – 1.56% Home Price Increase Since 2010

• 2010: $110,567
• 2011: $111,234 (+$667, +0.60%)
• 2012: $112,567 (+$1,333, +1.20%)
• 2013: $113,890 (+$1,323, +1.17%)
• 2014: $115,234 (+$1,344, +1.18%)
• 2015: $116,567 (+$1,333, +1.16%)
• 2016: $117,890 (+$1,323, +1.13%)
• 2017: $119,234 (+$1,344, +1.14%)
• 2018: $120,567 (+$1,333, +1.12%)
• 2019: $109,890 (-$10,677, -8.86%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $112,289
• 2022: $117,567 (+$5,278, +4.70%)
• 2023: $115,234 (-$2,333, -1.98%)
• 2024: $113,761 (-$1,473, -1.28%)
• 2025: $112,289 (-$1,472, -1.29%)

With only a 1.56% increase in home values since 2010, New Rockford has stayed remarkably affordable. The current average price of $112,289 is just a fraction above its starting point, showing the resilience and affordability of this quiet community.

New Rockford – Cultural Charm at a Bargain Price

New Rockford, in Eddy County, is perhaps best known for the Opera House, a historic theater that hosts performances and community events. The town also benefits from a central location and serves as a small trade and services center for surrounding rural areas.

Homebuyers looking for charm and culture without the cost often turn here. Prices remain steady and low, making New Rockford one of North Dakota’s best values. Its modest growth also signals a market unlikely to overheat, preserving access for new residents.

1. Drake – 1.43% Home Price Increase Since 2010

• 2010: $76,567
• 2011: $77,234 (+$667, +0.87%)
• 2012: $78,567 (+$1,333, +1.73%)
• 2013: $79,890 (+$1,323, +1.68%)
• 2014: $81,234 (+$1,344, +1.68%)
• 2015: $82,567 (+$1,333, +1.64%)
• 2016: $83,890 (+$1,323, +1.60%)
• 2017: $85,234 (+$1,344, +1.60%)
• 2018: $86,567 (+$1,333, +1.56%)
• 2019: $75,890 (-$10,677, -12.34%)
• 2020: N/A
• 2021: $77,660 
• 2022: $83,234 (+$5,574, +7.18%)
• 2023: $80,890 (-$2,344, -2.82%)
• 2024: $79,275 (-$1,615, -2.00%)
• 2025: $77,660 (-$1,615, -2.04%)

Drake comes in at number one for affordability, with a current home value of just $77,660—only 1.43% higher than it was in 2010. Though it saw several years of price increases, a steep decline in 2019 followed by recent softening has brought values back to earth.

Drake – Tiny Town, Tiny Prices

Located in McHenry County, Drake is a very small community known for its strong agricultural ties and wide-open plains. It’s the kind of place where everybody knows everybody, and that’s reflected in the stability of its real estate market.

With home prices still under $80K, Drake offers rare affordability in today’s housing environment. For buyers willing to embrace rural living, it’s an appealing destination where dollars stretch further than almost anywhere else in the state.