Unites States >> States >> North Dakota
North Dakota Population Overview (2026 Projection)
North Dakota is a U.S. state in the upper Midwest, bordered by the Canadian provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba to the north, and by the U.S. states of Minnesota to the east, South Dakota to the south, and Montana to the west.
North Dakota is the fourth-least populous state in the United States. The total land area is 68,994 sq mi (178,694 sq km), with an average population density of about 11 people per square mile, making it the 5th least densely populated state in the country. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, North Dakota had a population of 779,094 (0.78 million).
As of July 1, 2024, the estimated population of North Dakota is 796,568, which is approximately 0.8 million people.
👉 Projected Population of North Dakota (2026): ~0.82 million
North Dakota Population Growth (2010–2020)
North Dakota experienced a population growth rate of 15.8% between 2010 and 2020, adding approximately 106,503 residents during the decade. This growth is one of the highest in the region, driven by energy, agriculture, and economic expansion.
The median age of North Dakota’s population is 35.2 years, reflecting a relatively young demographic. The gender distribution is slightly skewed, with 48.8% females and 51.2% males.
North Dakota Census Snapshot (2020)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 779,094 (0.78 million) |
| Percentage Change | 15.8% |
| Population Rank | 47th |
| Total Land Area | 68,994 sq mi (178,694 km²) |
| Area Rank | 19th |
| Population Density | 10.73/sq mi (4.13/km²) |
| Capital City | Bismarck |
| Largest City | Fargo |
North Dakota Population Historical Population
North Dakota’s population has grown dramatically since its early settlement in the late 19th century. Rapid expansion occurred during the late 1800s due to immigration and agricultural development, while the 20th century saw slower growth with occasional declines. By the 2020 Census, the population had reached 779,094, reflecting one of the fastest-growing states in the Upper Midwest during the 2010–2020 decade.
Decadal Population Change (1870–2020)
| Census Year | Population | % Change |
|---|---|---|
| 1870 | 2,405 | — |
| 1880 | 36,909 | 1434.70% |
| 1890 | 190,983 | 417.40% |
| 1900 | 319,146 | 67.10% |
| 1910 | 577,056 | 80.80% |
| 1920 | 646,872 | 12.10% |
| 1930 | 680,845 | 5.30% |
| 1940 | 641,935 | −5.70% |
| 1950 | 619,636 | −3.50% |
| 1960 | 632,446 | 2.10% |
| 1970 | 617,761 | −2.30% |
| 1980 | 652,717 | 5.70% |
| 1990 | 638,800 | −2.10% |
| 2000 | 642,200 | 0.50% |
| 2010 | 672,591 | 4.70% |
| 2020 | 779,094 | 15.80% |
North Dakota Demographics (Summary)
Religion and Affiliations
Christianity is the majority religion in North Dakota, followed by approximately 77% of the population. The largest Christian denominations are Protestants (51%) and Roman Catholics (26%).
The Unaffiliated population accounts for 20% of residents who do not follow any faith, while other non-Christian religions make up about 3%, including Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and smaller faiths.
For more details, read Religion in North Dakota
Race and Ethnicity in North Dakota
In 2020, the White alone (non-Hispanic) population was the largest racial group, comprising 81.65% of the total population. It was followed by Native Americans (4.79%), Hispanic or Latino (4.29%), two or more races (3.88%), and African Americans (3.36%).
Ancestry in North Dakota
According to census studies and population estimates, the most common ancestry groups are German, Norwegian, Irish, English, and Swedish.
For more details, read Race and Ethnicity in North Dakota
Top cities and counties in North Dakota
As of 2022, North Dakota is divided into 53 counties. The most populated county is Cass County, with 177,787 residents.
The largest city in North Dakota is Fargo, with a population of 125,990. Other major cities include Bismarck (73,622) and Grand Forks (59,166).
read more about Cities and Counties in North Dakota
FAQs about North Dakota Demography
What is the population of North Dakota in 2026?
The projected population of North Dakota in 2026 is approximately 810,000 people, based on recent census trends and population estimates.
Is North Dakota gaining or losing population?
North Dakota has been gaining population. Between 2010 and 2020, the state grew by 15.8%, one of the fastest growth rates in the Midwest, largely driven by energy development and job opportunities.
What is the population density of North Dakota?
North Dakota has a low population density, with about 11 people per square mile, making it one of the least densely populated states in the U.S.
What is the largest city in North Dakota?
Fargo is the largest city in North Dakota, with a population of 125,990, followed by Bismarck and Grand Forks.
What are the major ethnic groups in North Dakota?
The largest ethnic group in North Dakota is White (non-Hispanic), followed by Native American, Hispanic or Latino, African American, and Asian populations.
What is the main religion in North Dakota?
Christianity is the dominant religion in North Dakota, practiced by about 77% of the population. The largest Christian groups are Protestants and Roman Catholics.
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