countyscore

Burleigh County, North Dakota — County Report Card

ND

#49 in North Dakota

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
45.4
County Score
Health 90.4Income & Jobs 88.5Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Burleigh County, North Dakota

Slightly Below the National Median

Burleigh County receives a composite score of 45.4, placing it just below the national median of 50.0. While it excels in some areas, several urban challenges impact its overall ranking.

Lower Than the North Dakota Average

The county's 45.4 score sits significantly below the state average of 61.5. As a more developed area, it faces different pressures than its more rural North Dakota neighbors.

Superior Health Access and High Income

The county is a regional leader in health with a score of 90.4. It also maintains a strong Income Score of 88.5, supported by a median household income of $84,948.

Safety and Cost Concerns

Burleigh faces significant hurdles with a Safety Score of 8.2 and a Risk Score of 14.9. Housing affordability is also lower than the state norm, with a Cost Score of 24.1.

Best for Health-Focused High Earners

Burleigh County suits those who prioritize access to top-tier medical facilities and high-paying jobs over safety and low costs. It is the go-to choice for an urban North Dakota lifestyle.

2040608010046.924.18.290.463.888.514.98638.6Tax46.9Cost24.1Safety8.2Health90.4Schools63.8Income88.5Risk14.9Water86Weather38.645.4/100
This county
National avg
3 above average4 below average

Burleigh County DNA

Foverall

How Burleigh County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Burleigh County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Health (90.4/100) but notably weak in Safety (8.2/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
46.9
Cost
24.1-23.9
Safety
8.2-46.8
Health
90.4+40.400000000000006
Schools
63.8+9.799999999999997
Income
88.5+37.5
Risk
14.9-32.1
Water
86+28
Weather
38.6-17.4
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$314,700

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$996/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$314,700/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$39,840/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.7x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $84,948/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

23.2

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

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Nearby counties

Oliver County
North Dakota
74.1
Morton County
North Dakota
38.5
Kidder County
North Dakota
69.8
Sheridan County
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McLean County
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Emmons County
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Mercer County
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Deep Dives

Burleigh County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Burleigh County

via TaxByCounty

Burleigh County near national tax average

At 0.878%, Burleigh County's effective tax rate nearly matches the U.S. median of 0.89%, making it a nationally typical jurisdiction for property taxation. The median property tax of $2,764 exceeds the national median of $2,690 by just 3%, despite homes valued at $314,700—12% above the national median.

Highest tax bill in North Dakota

Burleigh County's median property tax of $2,764 ranks highest among all North Dakota counties in the eight-county dataset, nearly doubling the state median of $1,460. This reflects both the county's 0.878% effective rate (slightly below state average) and its $314,700 median home value—among the state's highest.

Significantly higher taxes than region

Burleigh County's $2,764 median tax dwarfs surrounding rural counties: Bottineau ($1,335), Bowman ($1,330), and Burke ($968) all charge less than half. Only Billings County ($1,189) and Benson County ($724) offer comparisons, but both serve much lower-value housing markets.

High-value homes drive high tax bills

Burleigh County's median home value of $314,700 combined with a 0.878% effective rate generates an estimated annual property tax of $2,764. This highest tax bill in the dataset reflects the county's status as North Dakota's capital county with stronger property values and greater demand.

Challenge your assessment if inflated

With property taxes topping $2,764 annually, even a small percentage overassessment costs hundreds of dollars yearly in Burleigh County. Compare your assessment against documented recent sales of comparable properties to uncover potential appeal opportunities and reclaim overpaid taxes.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Burleigh County

via CostByCounty

Burleigh County rents press against affordability

At 14.1%, Burleigh County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national average and approaches the threshold where housing becomes financially burdensome. The median rent of $996 per month reflects a major urban area (Bismarck, the state capital), though the $84,948 median household income slightly exceeds the national median.

Least affordable county in North Dakota

Burleigh County ranks lowest in North Dakota for housing affordability, with renters spending 14.1% of income on rent versus the state average of 12.8%. The median rent of $996 is the highest in the state comparison, reflecting Bismarck's role as the largest metro area in North Dakota.

Most expensive rents and mortgages

Burleigh County's $996 rent and $1,174 monthly owner cost far exceed rural peers—nearly twice Adams County's costs and substantially higher than all other comparison counties. The median home value of $314,700 is second only to Billings County, reflecting Bismarck's regional economic hub status.

Housing takes largest bite from paychecks

Burleigh County renters spend $996 monthly (14.1% of income) and homeowners pay $1,174, the highest burdens in this eight-county set. On a median household income of $84,948, a family spends roughly $13,000 annually on rent or $14,000 on mortgage—leaving less for other needs.

Urban amenities come with a cost here

Relocate to Burleigh County for Bismarck's services, jobs, and urban infrastructure—but budget carefully for housing at 14.1% of income. If affordability is your priority, consider rural alternatives like Benson or Billings counties; if you need city amenities, Burleigh is worth the premium despite the highest housing burden in the state.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Burleigh County

via IncomeByCounty

Burleigh County tops national income average

Burleigh County's median household income of $84,948 surpasses the U.S. median of $74,755 by 14%, positioning it among the nation's stronger-earning counties. Per capita income of $44,873 also exceeds national norms significantly.

Third-highest earner in North Dakota

Burleigh County ranks third statewide at $84,948 median household income, well above the state average of $72,537. As home to Bismarck, the county benefits from government employment and a diverse economic base.

Strong income across central ND

Burleigh County's $84,948 income leads surrounding counties including Morton and Emmons. The capital city's presence drives employment diversity and wage competitiveness.

Strong income despite high housing costs

Burleigh County's 14.1% rent-to-income ratio is the highest among these eight counties, reflecting elevated housing demand in Bismarck. However, the $84,948 income still provides comfortable purchasing power and savings capacity.

Invest wisely amid capital growth

Burleigh County's strong income and growing property values create wealth-building opportunities through real estate and equities. Prioritize diversified portfolios, tax-advantaged retirement accounts, and education savings to leverage your earning advantages.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Burleigh County

via CrimeByCounty

Safety Challenges in Burleigh County

Burleigh County has a safety score of 95.3, which is lower than many of its rural neighbors. Its total crime rate of 2,977.3 per 100,000 residents actually exceeds the national average of 2,385.5.

Urban Crime Trends in North Dakota

The county's safety score of 95.3 ranks below the state average of 98.5. Its total crime rate of 2,977.3 is nearly three times the statewide average of 976.6 per 100,000 residents.

Regional Comparison for Burleigh

As a major population center, Burleigh County reports much higher crime than nearby rural areas like Billings County, which sits at 238.4. Higher population density often correlates with increased law enforcement activity.

Higher Property Crime Rates

Property crime is the primary driver of these numbers, occurring at 2,711.2 per 100,000 residents. While the violent crime rate of 266.1 is higher than the state average, it remains below the national average of 369.8.

Increasing Your Home Security

In counties with higher property crime rates, proactive security is essential. Installing a comprehensive home security system and utilizing outdoor cameras can effectively deter theft and improve overall safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Burleigh County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large and Diverse Urban System

As a major population center, Burleigh County serves 14,238 students across 36 public schools. This robust network includes 25 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 6 high schools across seven districts.

High Performance and Efficient Spending

The county achieves an impressive 90.0% graduation rate, significantly higher than both the state and national averages. It maintains this success with a per-pupil spend of $8,868, which is more efficient than the state average of $9,385.

Bismarck 1 Manages the Majority

Bismarck 1 is the massive primary district, overseeing 29 schools and 13,964 students. The county contains no charter schools, meaning nearly all students are part of this large, centralized public system.

From Urban Centers to Rural Outposts

The county features 24 city-based schools and 12 rural campuses, with an average school size of 431. Century High is the largest with 1,427 students, while the Naughton district provides a tiny rural alternative with just 32 students.

Diverse Home Options Near Top Schools

Whether you prefer an urban Bismarck neighborhood or a quiet rural plot, Burleigh County offers high-performing schools for every lifestyle. The 90% graduation rate makes this area a premier destination for North Dakota home buyers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Burleigh County

via RiskByCounty

Burleigh County faces significant risk

Burleigh County scores 85.11 on the composite risk scale, placing it among the highest-risk counties in the nation and rated Relatively Moderate overall. This score reflects substantial exposure across multiple major disaster categories.

North Dakota's riskiest county

At 85.11, Burleigh County ranks as the highest-risk county in North Dakota, nearly four times the state average of 22.19. Residents experience far greater multi-hazard exposure than any other North Dakotans.

Dramatically riskier than surrounding counties

Burleigh County's 85.11 score vastly exceeds neighboring counties like Benson County (24.27) and Bottineau County (18.67). This county faces dramatically higher compound disaster risks than any surrounding area.

Triple threat: flood, wildfire, tornado

Burleigh County faces exceptionally elevated risks across three major hazards: flood (77.35), wildfire (84.13), and tornado (83.02). These overlapping seasonal threats create substantial year-round disaster exposure for residents and properties.

Comprehensive protection is essential

Burleigh County residents must prioritize comprehensive coverage including separate flood insurance (77.35 risk), wildfire protection (84.13 risk), and strong wind/hail coverage for tornadoes. Review and upgrade your policies immediately to ensure adequate protection for all three major threats.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Burleigh County

via WaterByCounty

Reliable Drinking Water in Burleigh

Burleigh County earns an 'A' grade with zero health-based drinking water violations over the last five years. Its 0.0 violation rate stands well below the state average of 47.0 per 100,000 people. This indicates that major systems serving the Bismarck area are operating at high safety standards.

Watershed Health Near State Average

In the 2022 reporting cycle, 18.9% of the 37 assessed water bodies in the county are classified as impaired. This closely mirrors the North Dakota average of 19.3%. Primary causes for concern include E. coli, low dissolved oxygen, and nutrient concentrations.

Consistent Monitoring of Key Groups

Eight monitoring sites in Burleigh County have produced 4,710 measurements over the previous five years. The focus remains on physical properties, nutrient levels, and inorganic chemicals. These datasets are crucial for managing the impacts of urban and agricultural runoff in the capital region.

Missouri River Running Below Normal

The Missouri River at Bismarck is currently flowing at 14,000 cfs, which is 62% of its long-term mean of 22,527 cfs. This gauge monitors a massive 186,400-square-mile drainage area. Lower flows on this major artery can impact everything from power generation to local source water availability.

Monitor River Conditions and Bacteria

While drinking water is safe, the 18.9% impairment rate for local water bodies—driven by E. coli—suggests caution during river recreation. The Missouri River's current flow at 62% of typical levels can lead to warmer water temperatures and higher nutrient concentrations. Residents should follow local guidance on water conservation and stay aware of river quality updates.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Burleigh County

via WeatherByCounty

Capital Climate Stays Below Median

Burleigh County averages 43.0°F annually, which is roughly 10 degrees colder than the national median temperature. It features a classic humid continental climate with four distinct seasons.

Warmer Than the State Average

The county is significantly warmer than the North Dakota state average of 41.0°F. This relative warmth makes it one of the most temperate regions in the state.

Typical Precipitation for the Region

The annual precipitation of 19.7 inches almost perfectly matches the state average of 19.5 inches. This provides a balanced moisture profile compared to its drier western neighbors.

Snowy Winters and Warm Summers

Burleigh County gets a heavy 50.5 inches of snow annually, the most among these eight counties. This is balanced by a July average of 70.9°F and 17 days of extreme heat.

Maximize Snow Management Capacity

The 50.5 inches of annual snow requires professional-grade removal tools and robust roof construction. Cooling is also necessary for the 70.9°F summer average and the 17 days of intense 90°F+ heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Burleigh County

via SoilByCounty

Near-Neutral Soils of Central North Dakota

Burleigh County features a pH of 7.10, which is slightly more neutral than the North Dakota average of 7.18. It remains higher than the 6.5 national median, providing a balanced chemical environment. This profile is excellent for the diverse agriculture surrounding the state capital.

Loamy Texture for Optimal Growth

With 40.8% sand, 38.9% silt, and 19.7% clay, the soil texture is remarkably balanced. This combination prevents the ground from becoming too hard when dry or too sticky when wet. It is an ideal mix for maintaining soil health and aeration.

Stable Organic Content and Water Capacity

Organic matter is 3.77%, well above the 2.0% national average though lower than the 4.69% state average. Available water capacity is 0.184 in/in, nearly matching the state average of 0.186. This ensures the soil stays hydrated enough to support healthy crops through the summer.

Versatile Moisture Management

While formal drainage class records are not listed, the low clay percentage suggests the soil is not prone to severe waterlogging. It likely offers moderate to high permeability, making it suitable for both irrigation and dryland farming. The soil's physical properties make it easy to manage.

Capital Gardening in Zone 4a

Zone 4a is perfect for growing everything from corn to cold-tolerant perennials. Burleigh County’s soil score of 62.2 is essentially at the state average, meaning you can expect consistent results. It’s an inviting environment for any home gardener looking to plant roots.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Burleigh County

via LawnByCounty

Above Average Growth in Burleigh County

Burleigh County offers a relatively friendly environment for lawns with a difficulty score of 55.2. This score is higher than the national median and the North Dakota state average of 54.0.

High Growing Degrees for Rapid Growth

With 2,340 growing degree days, grass in Burleigh County develops faster than in much of the state. The 19.7 inches of annual rainfall closely matches the state average, though 17 extreme heat days require attentive summer watering.

Standard North Dakota Soil Profile

A soil pH of 7.10 provides an ideal baseline for most grass species. The 40.8% sand and 19.7% clay mix is common for the region, though specific drainage and texture classes are not available for this county.

Ten Weeks of Drought Resilience

Burleigh County endured 10 weeks of drought in the past year, which is moderate for the region. To conserve water during these times, avoid mowing during the hottest part of the day and keep your blades sharp.

Take Advantage of a Long Season

The frost-free window begins on May 11th and extends until September 29th, providing ample time for seeding. Zone 4a grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass are the local standard for durability and color.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Burleigh County's county score?
Burleigh County, North Dakota has a composite county score of 45.4 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Burleigh County rank among counties in North Dakota?
Burleigh County ranks #49 among all counties in North Dakota on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Burleigh County, North Dakota?
The median annual property tax in Burleigh County is $2,764, with an effective tax rate of 0.88%. This earns Burleigh County a tax score of 46.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Burleigh County?
The median household income in Burleigh County, North Dakota is $84,948 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Burleigh County earns an income score of 88.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Burleigh County, North Dakota a good place to live?
Burleigh County scores 45.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #49 in North Dakota. The best way to evaluate Burleigh County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Burleigh County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.