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McKenzie County, North Dakota — County Report Card

ND

#45 in North Dakota

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
48.8
County Score
Property Tax 93.1Income & Jobs 91.1Disaster Risk 75

County Report Card

About McKenzie County, North Dakota

McKenzie County nears the national median

With a composite score of 48.8, McKenzie County performs just below the national median of 50.0. While it faces some headwinds, its economic stats remain standout.

Trailing the North Dakota average

The county's score of 48.8 sits below the North Dakota average of 61.5. High costs associated with the local energy sector contribute to this lower overall ranking.

Wealth generation and low taxes

McKenzie County boasts a massive income score of 91.1 and a tax score of 93.1. Residents enjoy an effective tax rate of only 0.412% and a high median household income of $88,289.

High costs and safety concerns

The cost score of 19.1 reflects expensive housing, with median home values reaching $357,300. Safety is also a concern, as the safety score remains low at 26.0.

The verdict: A high-earner's boomtown

This county suits professionals in the energy sector who want to maximize take-home pay through low taxes. It is less suited for those seeking bargain-basement housing prices.

2040608010093.119.12653.25091.17557.534.8Tax93.1Cost19.1Safety26Health53.2Schools50Income91.1Risk75Water57.5Weather34.848.8/100
This county
National avg
3 above average3 below average

McKenzie County DNA

Foverall

How McKenzie County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

McKenzie County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Property Tax (93.1/100) but notably weak in Safety (26/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
93.1+41.099999999999994
Cost
19.1-28.9
Safety
26-29
Health
53.2
Schools
50
Income
91.1+40.099999999999994
Risk
75+28
Water
57.5
Weather
34.8-21.200000000000003
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Compare mortgage rates in McKenzie County

Whether buying or refinancing in McKenzie County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$357,300

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,153/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$357,300/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$46,120/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum4.0x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $88,289/yr
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Economic & Education Snapshot

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

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Deep Dives

McKenzie County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in McKenzie County

via TaxByCounty

McKenzie has lowest tax rate nationwide

McKenzie County's effective rate of 0.412% is among the lowest in the nation, placing it in the bottom 5% of U.S. counties by tax burden. Despite higher home values, the median property tax of $1,473 remains well below the national median of $2,690.

McKenzie leads North Dakota

McKenzie County's 0.412% effective rate is the lowest in North Dakota, far below the state average of 0.885%. Though the median property tax is $1,473—above the state median of $1,460—the lower rate reflects higher property valuations in the county.

Significantly lower tax rate than peers

McKenzie County's 0.412% rate is substantially lower than all nearby counties, including Mountrail (0.527%), McHenry (0.663%), and McLean (0.750%). Among the eight-county region, McKenzie offers the most favorable tax environment.

Your estimated annual property tax

On McKenzie's median home value of $357,300, expect approximately $1,473 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay $1,673, while those owning outright pay closer to $1,229.

Could your assessment be wrong?

Many North Dakota homeowners discover their property is overassessed during appeal windows. If you believe your home's valuation is inaccurate, filing a tax assessment appeal could reduce your annual bill—often with minimal paperwork and no filing fee.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in McKenzie County

via CostByCounty

McKenzie County faces tight housing affordability

McKenzie County's 15.7% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds the national standard of 12%, signaling housing cost pressure despite the county's strong median income of $88,289. At $1,153 monthly rent—50% above the national norm—McKenzie's tight affordability reflects the cost premium of regional demand and energy sector activity.

McKenzie County's housing costs lead the state

With a 15.7% rent-to-income ratio and median rent of $1,153, McKenzie County far outpaces the North Dakota state average of 12.8% rent-to-income and $770 median rent. The county's housing pressures remain the most acute in this statewide cluster, despite above-average incomes.

McKenzie runs 50% higher than neighboring counties

McKenzie County's $1,153 monthly rent dwarfs McIntosh County at $600 and McHenry County at $737, reflecting distinct regional economic forces. Even against Mercer County at $1,043 and Morton County at $1,036, McKenzie's costs remain notably elevated.

McKenzie dedicates 16% of income to housing

Renters pay $1,153 monthly while homeowners face $1,151, nearly identical costs reflecting hot demand for both rental and owned housing. With median home values at $357,300—the highest across all comparison counties—McKenzie residents invest heavily in their housing decisions.

McKenzie offers opportunity with affordability trade-offs

McKenzie County's high incomes and economic opportunities come with a cost: housing consumes 15.7% of household income, the tightest ratio in this cluster. If you're relocating for work in energy or agriculture, compare McKenzie's costs against neighboring options like Mercer or Morton County before deciding.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in McKenzie County

via IncomeByCounty

McKenzie leads the nation

McKenzie County's median household income of $88,289 towers 18.1% above the national median of $74,755, making it one of the strongest-earning counties nationwide. This prosperity stems largely from energy sector employment and resource extraction industries.

North Dakota's top income earner

McKenzie County dominates North Dakota's income rankings at $88,289, far exceeding the state average of $72,537 by $15,752. The county's per capita income of $48,665 is also the highest among its peers, reflecting exceptional earning power.

Vastly outpaces neighboring counties

McKenzie's $88,289 income substantially exceeds all neighbors—topping McLean County by $6,442 and McHenry County by $7,675. Only McKenzie maintains this elevated income tier among the region's eight counties.

High incomes, high housing costs

Despite robust earnings, McKenzie's rent-to-income ratio of 15.7% reflects the surge in housing costs driven by population growth and resource booms. The median home value of $357,300 is the region's highest, consuming more income than in neighboring counties.

Leverage peak earnings for long-term wealth

McKenzie's exceptional incomes present a unique opportunity to accelerate wealth-building before market cycles shift. Consider aggressive savings strategies, diversified investments, and tax-advantaged retirement accounts to insulate your wealth from sector volatility.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in McKenzie County

via CrimeByCounty

McKenzie County Remains Below National Rates

McKenzie County reports a total crime rate of 1811.0 per 100K, which is lower than the national average of 2,385.5. However, its safety score of 97.1 is lower than the state average of 98.5. This indicates more local activity than many of its rural neighbors.

Safety Challenges Relative to North Dakota

The county's safety score of 97.1 places it below the North Dakota average of 98.5. Its total crime rate of 1811.0 per 100K is nearly double the state average of 976.6. Two reporting agencies track these incidents to provide a clear picture of local safety.

Higher Crime Frequency Than Rural Peers

McKenzie County faces more crime than nearby Mountrail County, which reports a rate of 953.5 per 100K. Its violent crime rate of 312.5 is also significantly higher than Mountrail's 134.7. These comparisons highlight the unique safety challenges McKenzie handles compared to its neighbors.

Property vs Violent Crime Breakdown

Property crime is the primary concern here, recorded at 1498.5 per 100K, while violent crime sits at 312.5. While these rates are higher than state averages, they still fall short of national figures like the 2,015.7 property crime average. The data suggests that while McKenzie is busier, it is not an outlier by national standards.

Securing Property in McKenzie County

Enhanced home security, such as smart doorbells and cameras, can help deter property-related incidents. Since property crime is more prevalent here, residents should focus on securing valuables and outdoor equipment. Proactive community watching remains a vital tool for local safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in McKenzie County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Growing Infrastructure for 2,600 Students

McKenzie County features 12 public schools serving a robust population of 2,608 students across 5 districts. The system includes 7 elementary schools, 1 middle school, and 4 high schools to accommodate various age groups. This infrastructure represents a significant educational hub for the western North Dakota region.

Educational Outcomes Meet State Standards

The county's graduation rate of 84.4% nearly mirrors the North Dakota state average of 84.8%. Spending per pupil sits at $9,017, slightly lower than the state average and well under the $13,000 national benchmark. Despite lower spending, the school score of 54.9 is slightly higher than the state average of 54.8.

McKenzie County 1 Leads Regional Growth

McKenzie Co 1 is the dominant district, serving 2,004 students across five schools in the Watford City area. Alexander 2 and Mandaree 36 provide additional options, serving 321 and 179 students respectively. There are currently no charter schools, as the traditional public system manages the entirety of the county's enrollment.

Rural Schools with Modern Capacity

While all 12 schools are classified as rural, they are much larger than those in neighboring counties with an average size of 217 students. Badlands Elementary is the largest campus, housing 566 students in a modern primary setting. In contrast, the smallest schools still maintain significant enrollment, reflecting the area's population growth.

Join a Vibrant and Growing Community

Families looking for a balance of rural charm and modern school facilities should focus their home search on Watford City. The area's education system is scaling to meet demand while maintaining solid academic performance. Consider making McKenzie County your home to benefit from this evolving educational landscape.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in McKenzie County

via RiskByCounty

McKenzie's disaster risk stays very low

McKenzie County's composite score of 25.03 places it in the Very Low risk category, comfortably below typical U.S. county exposure levels. The county benefits from relatively distributed, moderate hazards rather than concentrated severe risks.

McKenzie ranks slightly above state average

At 25.03, McKenzie's composite risk slightly exceeds North Dakota's average of 22.19, but the difference is modest and the Very Low rating holds firm. This positions McKenzie in the lower-to-middle range of state county risk.

Similar risk to Mountrail; safer than McLean

McKenzie's score of 25.03 closely matches Mountrail County (21.37) and sits well below McLean County (43.10) and Morton County (49.59). Among northwestern counties, McKenzie ranks as one of the safer options.

Wildfire and tornado exposure most notable

Wildfire risk is elevated at 77.35, while tornado risk reaches 33.14—the two hazards requiring the most attention. Flood risk remains modest at 15.30, and earthquake risk is minimal.

Bundle wildfire and tornado preparedness

Verify your homeowners policy covers both wildfire and wind/hail damage from tornadoes, as McKenzie faces dual exposure to these events. Maintain defensible space around structures and identify safe rooms for severe weather.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in McKenzie County

via WaterByCounty

Reliable Drinking Water with Minor Violations

McKenzie County maintains a Grade C for its drinking water systems, having reported one health violation in the last five years. Its violation rate of 8.5 per 100K remains well below the North Dakota average of 47.0.

High Watershed Health Standards

Just 4.3% of the 116 assessed water bodies are listed as impaired, far lower than the state average impairment rate of 19.3%. Top stressors for these few sites include E. coli and methylmercury as of the 2022 reporting cycle.

Robust Monitoring of Metals and Nutrients

A network of 16 monitoring sites provides a strong data foundation with 5,947 measurements recorded over the last five years. Scientists prioritize tracking metals, nutrients, and inorganics across the county's vast watershed.

Missouri River Flow Data Unavailable

The primary USGS gauge on the Missouri River near Williston is currently not reporting live discharge or mean data. In the absence of live flow updates, residents should continue to monitor drinking water compliance records for safety.

Vigilance Against Specific Contaminants

The presence of methylmercury and E. coli in specific watershed areas requires targeted awareness for those using local raw water. Although drinking water is generally safe, the Grade C rating suggests residents should stay updated on their specific utility reports.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in McKenzie County

via WeatherByCounty

Colder than Most of the Nation

McKenzie County averages 42.3°F annually, falling well below the national average for temperature. Its climate is defined by cold northern air masses and low annual precipitation.

One of North Dakota's Warmer Regions

At 42.3°F, McKenzie is warmer than the 41.0°F state average. It is also drier than the rest of the state, receiving 17.0 inches of precipitation compared to the 19.5-inch state average.

More Extreme Heat than Eastern Peers

McKenzie records 21 days of extreme heat annually, more than doubling the 10 days seen in neighboring Mountrail. This makes it a regional hotspot during the peak of summer.

Strong Summer Heat and Dry Winters

Summer temperatures average 67.1°F, supported by three weeks of 90°F+ weather. Winters are cold but relatively dry, averaging 16.4°F with 42.3 inches of snow.

Dual-Season Climate Preparation

Central air conditioning is vital for the 21 days of extreme summer heat. For the 13.6°F January lows, robust home insulation and reliable vehicle block heaters are essential.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in McKenzie County

via SoilByCounty

High-Quality Plains Soil Identity

McKenzie County soil averages a pH of 7.18, aligning perfectly with the North Dakota state average. This alkaline tilt sits well above the 6.5 national median, favoring crops specifically adapted to the northern plains.

Silty Mix Offers Great Workability

The mix features 38.2% sand, 40.6% silt, and 21.2% clay. This silty composition offers excellent workability and enough clay to hold onto vital nutrients during the peak growing season.

Superior Organic Matter and Water

With an impressive 5.70% organic matter, this soil is far richer than the national average of 2.0%. Its water capacity of 0.192 in/in exceeds the state average, providing a significant buffer against seasonal droughts.

Efficient Water Management Properties

Specific drainage classifications are currently unavailable, but the high silt and organic content suggest a soil that manages water efficiently. These characteristics provide a robust environment for both agricultural roots and local construction projects.

A Powerhouse for Small Grains

McKenzie's Zone 4a status and high fertility make it a powerhouse for small grains and flax. Residents can produce high yields in home gardens by utilizing the soil's superior water-holding abilities and 68.2 soil score.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in McKenzie County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging Conditions for McKenzie Lawns

McKenzie County presents a tough environment with a lawn difficulty score of 44.1, well below the state average of 54.0. In Hardiness Zone 4a, homeowners must combat both extreme winter cold and significant summer moisture deficits.

Dry Climate and Intense Heat

Receiving only 17.0 inches of rain annually, McKenzie is one of the drier regions in the state. Lawns also face 21 extreme heat days per year, which is significantly higher than the state average of 13, requiring aggressive irrigation strategies.

Working with Alkaline Soils

A soil pH of 7.18 makes the ground slightly alkaline, requiring careful monitoring to ensure turf stays green. The soil consists of 38.2% sand and 21.2% clay, which provides a decent foundation but may require organic matter to improve water retention.

Extended Drought Cycles are Common

The county endured 22 weeks of drought over the past year, putting immense stress on local landscapes. To survive such long dry spells, focus on drought-tolerant grass varieties and avoid heavy fertilization during the peak heat of summer.

Tough Grass for a Tough Climate

Consider drought-resistant Creeping Red Fescue for your Zone 4a lawn. Your growing window is tight, stretching from the May 20 last frost to the September 23 first frost, so early spring seeding is essential.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is McKenzie County's county score?
McKenzie County, North Dakota has a composite county score of 48.8 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 McKenzie County rank among counties in North Dakota?
McKenzie County ranks #45 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 McKenzie County, North Dakota?
The median annual property tax in McKenzie County is $1,473, with an effective tax rate of 0.41%. This earns McKenzie County a tax score of 93.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in McKenzie County?
The median household income in McKenzie County, North Dakota is $88,289 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. McKenzie County earns an income score of 91.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is McKenzie County, North Dakota a good place to live?
McKenzie County scores 48.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #45 in North Dakota. The best way to evaluate McKenzie 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 McKenzie County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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