countyscore
38.9
County Score
Health 82.8Income & Jobs 77.4Water Quality 69.7

County Report Card

About Cass County, North Dakota

Cass County Falls Below National Median

With a composite score of 38.9, Cass County sits significantly below the national median of 50.0. This ranking places the county in a lower percentile nationally despite its status as a major regional hub.

An Urban Outlier in North Dakota

The county's overall score of 38.9 trails well behind the North Dakota state average of 61.5. While it serves as an economic engine for the region, its livability metrics differ sharply from its more rural neighbors.

High Earnings and Healthy Living

Cass excels in Health with a score of 82.8 and Income at 77.4. Residents enjoy a robust median household income of $75,023 and access to top-tier regional medical facilities.

Safety and Environmental Risk Pressures

The county faces significant hurdles with a Safety score of 4.1 and a Risk score of 17.6. Additionally, a Cost score of 23.5 reflects a more expensive housing market where median home values reach $284,700.

Best for Ambitious Urban Professionals

This county suits high-earning individuals who prioritize career growth and healthcare access over quiet suburban safety. It offers the most traditional urban lifestyle in the state for those who can manage higher living costs.

Score breakdown

Tax25.1Cost23.5Safety4.1Health82.8Schools61.3Income77.4Risk17.6Water69.7Weather42.9
🏛25.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠23.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼77.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡4.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤82.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓61.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡17.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧69.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤42.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨60.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱58.2
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

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Deep Dives

Cass County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Cass County

via TaxByCounty

Cass County taxes far above national average

At 1.212%, Cass County's effective tax rate ranks in the 73rd percentile nationally—meaning it taxes property at higher rates than roughly three-quarters of American counties. The median property tax here is $3,449, compared to the national median of $2,690, a difference of $759 per year.

Second-highest tax burden in North Dakota

Cass County ranks second among all 53 North Dakota counties for effective tax rate. Its 1.212% rate significantly exceeds the state average of 0.885%, placing it among the state's most expensive counties to own property.

Cass stands out in the region

Neighboring Cavalier County (1.246%) comes in slightly higher, but most other regional counties charge substantially less—Dickey (0.920%), Eddy (0.889%), and Emmons (0.899%) all fall below state average. Cass's $3,449 median tax is double or triple what residents pay in many surrounding counties.

Home here? Budget $3,449 annually

With a median home value of $284,700 and a 1.212% effective rate, the typical Cass County homeowner pays roughly $3,449 in property tax each year. Owners with mortgages typically pay slightly more at $3,509 due to escrow calculations.

Your assessment might be too high

Research shows many homeowners across North Dakota are overassessed relative to market value. If you believe your home's assessed value is inflated, filing a property tax appeal with your county assessor costs nothing and could reduce your annual tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Cass County

via CostByCounty

Cass rents edge above the national norm

At 14.9%, Cass County's rent-to-income ratio runs 2.1 percentage points higher than the national median, meaning renters here devote a larger slice of paychecks to housing. With a median household income of $75,023—nearly matching the national average of $74,755—Cass renters pay $930 monthly, stretching affordability tighter than typical U.S. households.

Cass ranks among North Dakota's pricier counties

Cass County's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio places it above North Dakota's state average of 12.8%, making it one of the state's more expensive housing markets. The county's median rent of $930 significantly outpaces the state average of $770, reflecting its status as North Dakota's second-largest metropolitan area.

Fargo-area housing costs set Cass apart

Cass County renters pay $930 monthly—roughly $160 more than neighbors like Cavalier County ($859) and Foster County ($756). Even compared to similarly sized Divide County, Cass residents face noticeably steeper rental costs, though its higher median income of $75,023 provides some cushion.

Housing takes 14.9% of Cass household income

Cass renters spend $930 monthly while mortgage holders pay $1,440, reflecting the county's substantial homeownership costs. With a median home value of $284,700—the highest among these eight counties—ownership demands significant financial commitment, though the median household income of $75,023 provides reasonable support.

Consider Cass for urban perks and jobs

If you're relocating to North Dakota, Cass County offers the region's strongest job market and metro amenities, though housing costs run higher than rural alternatives. Renters comfortable with 14.9% of income going to housing will find a vibrant community; home buyers should compare Cass's $284,700 median value against more affordable counties like Eddy ($115,500) or Emmons ($112,400).

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Cass County

via IncomeByCounty

Cass County edges out the nation

Cass County's median household income of $75,023 slightly exceeds the national median of $74,755, placing it in the upper-middle tier nationally. This $268 advantage reflects a county economy that keeps pace with broader U.S. earning trends.

Above average among North Dakota counties

Cass County ranks above the state median household income of $72,537, earning $2,486 more per household than the typical North Dakota county. This positions Cass as a mid-tier earner within the state economy.

Stronger than rural peers

Cass County's $75,023 income outpaces neighbors Cavalier County ($67,064) and Dickey County ($63,125), though it trails the energy-rich counties of Dunn ($94,688) and Divide ($89,297). The variation reflects North Dakota's diverse economic base across agriculture, energy, and trade.

Income comfortably covers housing costs

With a rent-to-income ratio of 14.9%, Cass County households spend well under the recommended 30% threshold on rental housing, leaving substantial room for other expenses. The median home value of $284,700 remains accessible for households earning the county median.

Build on your earnings advantage

Cass County households earning at or above the $75,023 median have a strong foundation for wealth-building through retirement savings, homeownership, and investment. With housing costs manageable and income competitive, prioritizing a diversified financial plan can compound gains over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Cass County

via CrimeByCounty

Crime Activity in North Dakota's Hub

Cass County maintains a safety score of 94.1, reflecting a high-activity environment. Its total crime rate of 3,763.8 per 100K sits significantly above the national average of 2,385.5.

Above the North Dakota Average

The county's total crime rate is nearly four times higher than the state average of 976.6 per 100K. This places it below the state average safety score of 98.5 as it handles higher urban volumes.

Higher Rates Than Rural Neighbors

With four reporting agencies, Cass provides robust data that shows higher crime levels than its quieter rural neighbors. This activity is typical for a major regional population center.

Property Crime Drives Local Figures

Property crime accounts for 3,273.3 per 100K, while violent crime stays at 490.5. These numbers mean theft and burglary are the primary safety concerns for local residents.

Secure Your Property in Cass

Since property crimes are the most frequent incidents, home security systems offer significant benefits. Simple upgrades like motion-activated lighting can effectively deter potential intruders.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Cass County

via HealthByCounty

Cass County lives longer than America

At 79.1 years, Cass County residents live nearly two years longer than the U.S. average of 77.0 years. Just 14.1% report poor or fair health, beating the national rate of 16.8%.

Best-in-state life expectancy

Cass County's 79.1-year life expectancy ranks first in North Dakota, outpacing the state average of 77.5 years by 1.6 years. The county leads the state in healthy aging outcomes.

Strong health among regional peers

Cass County's 14.1% poor/fair health rate compares favorably to neighboring Cavalier County (13.6%) and significantly outperforms Dickey County (16.3%). The county offers robust primary care access at 99 providers per 100,000 residents.

Healthcare access meets population need

With a 7.2% uninsured rate slightly below the state average of 7.5%, Cass County residents have strong insurance coverage. The county provides 99 primary care providers and 340 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, supporting comprehensive care access.

Keep your coverage strong

Even with solid numbers, staying insured matters: 7.2% of Cass County residents still lack coverage. Visit healthcare.gov or contact your local health department to explore coverage options and maintain your family's access to care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Cass County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse and Expanding Education Infrastructure

Cass County supports a robust network of 63 public schools across 8 districts, serving 27,272 students. The infrastructure includes 38 elementary schools, 9 middle schools, and 13 high schools to accommodate the region's growth. There are currently no charter schools operating within the county system.

Strong Results with Efficient Spending

The county achieves an impressive 89.3% graduation rate, surpassing both the state average of 84.8% and the national benchmark of 87.0%. While per-pupil expenditure is lower than the national average at $8,858, the school score of 57.2 remains higher than the state median. This indicates a high level of academic efficiency and student success.

Fargo and West Fargo Lead the Way

The West Fargo 6 district is the largest by enrollment, educating 12,648 students across 25 schools. Close behind is the Fargo 1 district, which manages 25 schools and 11,431 students. Together, these two districts represent the vast majority of the county's educational footprint.

A Mix of Urban and Rural Settings

The county features a unique balance of 27 city schools and 18 rural schools, with an average school size of 433 students. West Fargo Sheyenne High School is the largest campus with 1,473 students, while several smaller schools provide a more intimate learning environment. This diversity allows families to choose between bustling urban districts and quieter rural settings.

Find Your Home Near Top-Rated Schools

With graduation rates that lead the state, Cass County is a premier destination for families prioritizing education. Explore homes in West Fargo or Fargo to find a neighborhood that matches your academic and lifestyle needs. The region's commitment to school quality remains a primary factor for local home buyers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Cass County

via RiskByCounty

Cass County faces above-average disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 82.38, Cass County ranks as Relatively Moderate—significantly higher than the national average. This score reflects the county's exposure to multiple natural hazards, particularly tornadoes and flooding, making it one of North Dakota's most at-risk areas.

Highest risk county in North Dakota

Cass County's composite risk score of 82.38 dwarfs the state average of 22.19, making it the riskiest county in North Dakota by a substantial margin. This elevated risk stems from concentrated tornado and flood exposure across the county's populated areas.

Cass stands apart from surrounding counties

Cass County's risk profile is dramatically different from its neighbors: Emmons County (44.27) and Foster County (7.41) rank far below it. The stark contrast highlights how Cass's geography and weather patterns create uniquely elevated hazard exposure compared to neighboring regions.

Tornadoes and floods dominate your threats

Tornadoes present your most significant risk with a score of 89.69, while floods follow closely at 80.63—both well above typical ranges. Together, these two hazards account for the vast majority of Cass County's composite risk and demand the most attention in emergency preparedness.

Secure flood and tornado coverage now

Given your county's elevated tornado and flood risks, comprehensive homeowners insurance with flood coverage is essential—standard policies don't cover flood damage. Review your coverage today and consider a safe room or shelter plan to protect your family during severe weather events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Cass County

via WeatherByCounty

A Classic Cold Continental Climate

Cass County's average annual temperature of 41.7°F sits more than 13 degrees below the national median. This humid continental climate experiences massive seasonal swings typical of the Upper Midwest.

Warmer and Wetter Than State Averages

The county is slightly warmer than the North Dakota average of 41.0°F. It is also significantly wetter than its peers, receiving 23.6 inches of precipitation compared to the state average of 19.5 inches.

A Milder Choice in the Valley

Compared to Cavalier County to the north, Cass is nearly five degrees warmer on average. It receives 42.9 inches of snow annually, which is standard for the Red River Valley region.

Frigid Winters Meet Ten Heat Days

January is bitter with an average of 8.5°F, while July peaks at a comfortable 70.2°F. Despite the cold, the county still logs 10 days a year where temperatures hit or exceed 90°F.

Prepare for Snow and Seasonal Shifts

Heavy-duty snow removal equipment is essential for managing the 42.9 inches of annual snowfall. Residents should also invest in high-efficiency heating to handle the 12.1°F winter average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Cass County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Soils in the Red River Valley

Cass County soil carries an average pH of 7.31, making it more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and slightly above the North Dakota average of 7.18. While specific taxonomic orders are not categorized here, the pH levels indicate a mineral-rich environment common to the region. This alkalinity influences how nutrients like phosphorus remain available to local plants.

A Balanced Mix of Silt and Sand

The soil composition consists of 40.4% silt, 37.8% sand, and 21.8% clay. This balanced distribution creates a workable texture that avoids the extreme heaviness of pure clay while retaining enough structure for farming. This mix generally provides a stable foundation for root development and equipment movement.

Strong Organic Matter Fuels Growth

At 4.38%, the organic matter content is more than double the national average of 2.0%, though it sits just below the state average of 4.69%. The available water capacity of 0.185 in/in closely tracks the North Dakota average, ensuring reliable moisture storage during the growing season. This combination supports the high productivity of the county's famous agricultural lands.

Reliable Moisture and Subsurface Hydrology

Specific drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not listed in the current data, but the balanced soil texture suggests moderate internal movement. The water capacity indicates that the soil can hold significant moisture before reaching a saturation point. Gardeners should monitor local conditions as the high silt content can lead to surface crusting after heavy rains.

Productive Gardening in Zone 4a

Cass County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 4a, where hardy vegetables and grains thrive in the alkaline, organic-rich soil. Local gardeners find success with cold-weather crops like wheat, soybeans, and hardy perennials. Start your garden early in the spring to take full advantage of this fertile, well-balanced soil profile.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Cass County

via LawnByCounty

Cass County’s Favorable Growing Conditions

Cass County earns a lawn difficulty score of 58.2, making it significantly easier to maintain a yard here than the national median of 50.0. While Hardiness Zone 4a poses winter risks, the county remains above the state average score of 54.0.

High Rainfall Compared to State Averages

The county receives 23.6 inches of annual precipitation, which is more than four inches above the North Dakota state average of 19.5 inches. With 2,331 growing degree days and only 10 extreme heat days, you can maintain a consistent mowing schedule with less heat-related dormant periods.

Managing Alkaline Soils for Healthier Grass

The soil features a 21.8% clay and 37.8% sand composition with a pH of 7.31. Since this is above the ideal 6.0-7.0 range, your lawn might benefit from sulfur-based amendments to prevent nutrient lockout.

Moderate Drought Exposure and Water Management

Cass County experienced 7 weeks of drought over the past year, and nearly a third of the area currently remains abnormally dry. Deep watering once per week is more effective than daily light sprinkling for building resilient root systems.

Seeding for Success in Zone 4a

Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescue are the top choices for this cold-hardy region. Plan your seeding projects after the May 10 last frost date or in early fall before the October 1 frost arrives.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cass County's county score?
Cass County, North Dakota has a composite county score of 38.9 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 Cass County rank among counties in North Dakota?
Cass County ranks #52 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 Cass County, North Dakota?
The median annual property tax in Cass County is $3,449, with an effective tax rate of 1.21%. This earns Cass County a tax score of 25.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Cass County?
The median household income in Cass County, North Dakota is $75,023 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Cass County earns an income score of 77.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Cass County, North Dakota a good place to live?
Cass County scores 38.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #52 in North Dakota. The best way to evaluate Cass 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 Cass County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

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