Bismarck vs Duluth for Families (2026)
A family-focused comparison of housing, income, taxes, and overall affordability in Bismarck, ND vs Duluth, MN.
- 2BR rent: $1,500/mo in Bismarck vs $1,600/mo — 6% difference
- More affordable homeownership in Duluth: $230K median vs $260K
- Higher median household income in Bismarck: $60K/yr vs $54K
Family cost comparison
| Metric | Bismarck North Dakota | Duluth Minnesota |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR rent/month | $1,500Better | $1,600 |
| Median home price | $260K | $230KBetter |
| Median household income | $60KBetter | $54K |
| Est. childcare/month | $1,131Better | $1,131 |
| State income tax | 2.5%Better | 9.9% |
| Sales tax (combined) | 6.8%Better | 7.5% |
Frequently asked questions
Which city is better for raising a family — Bismarck or Duluth?
Based on housing costs, income, and taxes, Bismarck scores slightly better for families overall. Bismarck has lower 2-bedroom rents, Duluth is more affordable for homebuyers, though both cities have strong family communities.
What is the average 2-bedroom rent in Bismarck vs Duluth?
As of Q1 2026, median 2BR rent is $1,500/month in Bismarck and $1,600/month in Duluth. Bismarck is 6% cheaper for a 2-bedroom apartment.
Can a family afford to buy a home in Bismarck or Duluth?
The price-to-income ratio in Bismarck is 4.3× ($260K home, $60K income) vs 4.3× in Duluth. A ratio below 3× is generally considered affordable. Duluth is more achievable for first-time family homebuyers.
How much does childcare cost in Bismarck vs Duluth?
Based on cost-of-living indices, estimated childcare (infant/toddler) runs approximately $1,131/month in Bismarck and $1,131/month in Duluth. These are estimates — actual costs vary by provider and program type.
Which city has lower taxes for families?
Bismarck has a 2.5% state income tax rate vs Duluth's 9.9% rate. For a dual-income family earning $120K combined, the difference can mean $444+/month in take-home.
Childcare estimates based on national average scaled by COL index. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation · Q1 2026
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