countyscore
46.8
County Score
Water Quality 86Income & Jobs 84.7Health 74

County Report Card

About Stark County, North Dakota

Tracking Just Below the National Median

Stark County scores a 46.9, which falls slightly below the national median of 50.0. While it faces some headwinds in cost and safety, it maintains strong performance in specific livability dimensions. It represents a more urbanized North Dakota experience with different trade-offs than its rural neighbors.

Navigating Challenges Within the State

The county's composite score of 46.9 is lower than the North Dakota state average of 61.5. This reflects the pressures of higher housing costs and urban safety challenges not found in the state's more rural pockets. However, it remains an economic anchor for the western part of the state.

High Earnings and Quality Water

Economic opportunity is a major draw, with an Income Score of 84.7 and a strong median household income of $80,744. The county also provides excellent utilities, evidenced by a Water Score of 86.0. Health outcomes are also a bright spot, scoring 74.0.

High Living Costs and Safety Concerns

Growth has brought challenges, including a low Cost Score of 25.2 due to a high median home value of $260,400. The Safety Score of 28.6 is also significantly lower than the state average. Addressing these issues is vital for maintaining the county's appeal to new families.

Best for High-Earning Professionals

Stark County is built for career-oriented individuals who can take advantage of its strong $80,744 median income. It offers a more modern infrastructure with great water and healthcare, though at a higher price point. It suits those who prioritize economic opportunity over low housing costs.

2040608010043.725.228.67453.584.762.78636.1Tax43.7Cost25.2Safety28.6Health74Schools53.5Income84.7Risk62.7Water86Weather36.146.8/100
This county
National avg
4 above average3 below average

Stark County DNA

Foverall

How Stark County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Stark County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Income (84.7/100) but notably weak in Safety (28.6/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
43.7-8.299999999999997
Cost
25.2-22.8
Safety
28.6-26.4
Health
74+24
Schools
53.5
Income
84.7+33.7
Risk
62.7+15.700000000000003
Water
86+28
Weather
36.1-19.9
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$260,400

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$966/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$260,400/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$38,640/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.2x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $80,744/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

9.1

per 100K

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

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Stark County with Dillingham Census Area →Share on X

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York County
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Lauderdale County
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Nearby counties

Hettinger County
North Dakota
62.1
Billings County
North Dakota
84.1
Dunn County
North Dakota
61.5
Slope County
North Dakota
77.4
Adams County
North Dakota
62.2
Mercer County
North Dakota
60.6
Golden Valley County
North Dakota
68.1
Grant County
North Dakota
66.7

Deep Dives

Stark County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Stark County

via TaxByCounty

Stark taxes approach national median

Stark County's effective tax rate of 0.921% is slightly above the national average of 0.885%, making it competitive by nationwide standards. With a median property tax of $2,398 and a median home value of $260,400, Stark residents pay closer to the national median of $2,690 than most North Dakota counties.

Middle-range rate in North Dakota

Stark County ranks in the upper-middle tier of North Dakota counties at 0.921%, slightly above the state average of 0.885%. Median taxes of $2,398 exceed the state median of $1,460 by $938 annually, reflecting higher home values.

Higher than most surrounding counties

Stark's 0.921% rate exceeds Slope County (0.379%), Sheridan County (0.699%), and Sioux County (0.469%), but trails Sargent County (1.142%) and Stutsman County (1.095%). It sits in the region's upper range for property tax burden.

What a $260,400 home costs annually

A median-valued home in Stark County incurs roughly $2,398 in annual property taxes, or about $200 per month. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $2,504, while outright ownership drops to $2,259.

Appeal if your home is overvalued

Higher-value homes in Stark County benefit significantly from accurate assessments, as overvaluations compound quickly. Many homeowners have successfully appealed inflated valuations and secured meaningful tax reductions.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Stark County

via CostByCounty

Stark County: North Dakota's most expensive

Stark County's 14.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the least affordable in the state, driven by the region's oil-boom legacy and home values averaging $260,400. Despite strong median income of $80,744, residents here pay substantially more for housing than the national average household.

Priciest housing market in North Dakota

Stark County leads North Dakota in housing costs, with a 14.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeding the state average of 12.8% and median rent of $966 well above the state median of $770. Median home values of $260,400 nearly double the state typical, reflecting the county's unique economic position.

Clear outlier in regional affordability

Stark County's $966 rent and $260,400 home values dwarf those of rural neighbors Sargent ($835/$149,600) and Slope ($719/$121,300). This county represents a different economic tier—more akin to Bismarck-area suburbs than rural North Dakota.

Homeownership most strained, here

Homeowners in Stark County face the region's steepest monthly costs at $1,211—consuming 14.9% of median household income, well above renters' 14.4% burden. Despite the county's highest incomes, housing here demands a larger financial commitment than anywhere else in the comparison set.

Premium market for premium incomes

Stark County suits high-earning households seeking newer construction and amenities tied to oil-sector development, but affordability-conscious buyers should look south or east. If housing-cost efficiency matters, nearly every neighboring county offers significantly better value.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Stark County

via IncomeByCounty

Stark County leads North Dakota income

Stark County's median household income of $80,744 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by approximately $5,989. The county ranks among the strongest income performers in the nation, driven by oil and energy sector growth.

Highest-earning county in North Dakota

Stark County's median income of $80,744 tops all North Dakota counties, surpassing the state average of $72,537 by $8,207. The county's energy sector success has created exceptional earning opportunities for residents.

Commanding income advantage regionally

Stark County's $80,744 median household income substantially exceeds all neighboring counties, including Steele County ($80,313) and Sargent County ($77,697). The county's economic leadership is unmistakable in regional comparisons.

High home prices offset strong earnings

Despite robust median income, Stark County residents face the highest median home value of $260,400 among these eight counties, creating a 14.4% rent-to-income ratio. Homebuyers should carefully plan financing for the elevated property costs.

Capitalize on exceptional earning power

Stark County's strong income provides unique wealth-building capacity beyond housing investments. Diversify savings across retirement accounts, investment portfolios, and estate planning to maximize long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Stark County

via CrimeByCounty

Stark County Safety Below National Average

Stark County maintains a safety score of 97.3 out of 100. While its total crime rate of 1,724.9 per 100,000 is below the national average of 2,385.5, it represents a busier safety landscape than many ND counties.

Stark County Faces Higher Crime Than State Avg

The total crime rate of 1,724.9 per 100,000 is significantly higher than the North Dakota state average of 976.6. Its safety score of 97.3 is also lower than the statewide average of 98.5.

Comparing Crime in Western North Dakota

Stark County serves as a regional hub, which often leads to higher crime rates than more isolated rural neighbors. Two reporting agencies work together to manage the public safety needs of this growing area.

Violent and Property Crime Trends

Violent crime in Stark County stands at 200.1 per 100,000, which is higher than the state average of 121.0. Property crime makes up the majority of reports at 1,524.8 per 100,000 residents.

Prioritizing Home and Asset Protection

Because property crime is the primary issue, Stark County residents should invest in robust door locks and smart security systems. Keeping vehicles locked and valuables out of sight reduces the risk of theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Stark County

via SchoolsByCounty

Robust Schooling in Stark County

Stark County supports a large student population of 4,938 across 21 public schools and four districts. The county features a comprehensive mix of 11 elementary schools, two middle schools, and seven high schools.

Balanced Growth and Results

The graduation rate of 86.1% nearly matches the national average and exceeds the state average of 84.8%. With a school score of 55.9, the county maintains strong results despite a per-pupil expenditure of $9,035, which is lower than the state average.

Dickinson's Central Role

Dickinson 1 is the primary district, managing 12 schools and serving 3,951 students. The county has no charter schools, meaning all education is handled through the four regional public districts.

Town and Country Diversity

Stark County offers a mix of town and rural locales, with an average school size of 247 students. Dickinson High School is a regional powerhouse with 1,028 students, while several rural campuses offer smaller settings.

Growing Families in Stark County

Stark County's strong graduation rates and diverse school sizes make it a top choice for home buyers with children. Explore neighborhoods near the top-rated Dickinson schools to secure your family's future.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Stark County

via RiskByCounty

Stark faces above-average disaster risk

Stark County's composite risk score of 37.34 carries a "Very Low" rating but places it above the national average, indicating elevated natural disaster exposure. Your community faces more hazard vulnerability than typical U.S. counties.

Mid-range risk within North Dakota

At 37.34, Stark County exceeds North Dakota's state average of 22.19, landing it among the state's more hazard-prone communities. This elevated score reflects above-average exposure to multiple disaster types across the county.

Riskier than most regional peers

Stark's 37.34 score exceeds Billings County (11.22) to the south and Dunn County (18.77) to the east, positioning it as the region's highest-risk county. McKenzie County (43.12) to the north presents comparable hazard exposure.

Tornado and wildfire lead threats

Tornado risk (47.90) ranks as Stark County's top hazard, followed closely by wildfire risk (54.80), both well above state averages. Flood risk (22.33) and earthquake risk (16.83) add secondary vulnerability across your landscape.

Enhanced coverage protects your investment

Homeowners in Stark County should verify their policies cover both wildfire and tornado damage, potentially requiring additional riders beyond standard coverage. Build an emergency kit, secure a weather radio, and establish a family communication plan for severe events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Stark County

via WaterByCounty

Stark County Achieves Top Tier Drinking Water Grade

Stark County holds a Grade A for drinking water compliance, with zero health violations recorded in the five-year lookback. This 0.0 violation rate outperforms the North Dakota average of 47.0 per 100K residents. The county's public water systems are operating with a high degree of reliability.

Watershed Health Outpaces Most of the State

Only 8.1% of Stark County's 74 assessed water bodies are listed as impaired, well below the state average of 19.3%. The primary challenges identified in the 2022 cycle include sedimentation and physical substrate alterations. Nutrient levels also remain a secondary concern for local regulators.

Robust Monitoring Network Records Thousands of Data Points

Stark County features a high-density monitoring footprint with 22 sites and 7,913 measurements recorded over five years. This data provides a comprehensive look at nutrients, metals, and physical water properties. It is one of the most thoroughly monitored counties in the region.

Heart River Flows Below Normal Season Mean

The Heart River near Richardton is currently discharging at 11 cfs, which is only 12% of its typical long-term mean. These low flow conditions are consistent with broader regional trends of reduced precipitation. Lower river volumes may require closer monitoring of nutrient concentrations.

Sustaining High Quality Through Proactive Management

With excellent compliance and low impairment, Stark County's water is in good standing. However, residents should be mindful that current low streamflow can concentrate nutrients like those identified in the watershed assessment. Maintaining bank stability will help mitigate the sedimentation issues that affect the few impaired local waters.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Stark County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool Temps and Low Humidity

Stark County records an average annual temperature of 42.6°F, trailing the national median by double digits. Its climate is characterized by low annual precipitation of 16.4 inches. This creates a dry, cool environment typical of the Western Great Plains.

Above the State Temperature Median

Stark County sits above the 41.0°F state average with its own 42.6°F annual mark. This makes it one of the more temperate counties within North Dakota's borders. The area benefits from slightly warmer winter averages compared to the state's northeastern corner.

Western North Dakota Climate Profile

Stark County is slightly wetter than neighboring Slope County but shares a similar 42-degree temperature profile. It receives 34.2 inches of snow, which is less than the heavier totals seen in central Sheridan County. The region is known for its consistent winds and open skies.

Twenty Days of Extreme Heat

The county experiences 20 days per year where temperatures exceed 90°F, peaking during the 69.4°F July average. Winter brings a sharp drop to 15.4°F in January with 34.2 inches of total snowfall. These seasonal swings demand versatility from local infrastructure.

Built for Temperature Swings

Homeowners should invest in insulation to combat 15.4°F January lows and air conditioning for the 20 days of extreme heat. With 16.4 inches of precipitation, drought-resistant landscaping is a practical choice. Keep snow removal tools ready for the 34-inch annual average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Stark County

via SoilByCounty

Neutral Soils in Stark County

Stark County boasts a perfectly neutral pH of 7.00. This is an ideal balance for gardening, sitting right between the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 7.18.

Sturdy Composition for Growth

The soil contains 40.6% silt and 23.1% clay, giving it the highest clay content among its neighbors. This structure offers excellent nutrient storage and physical stability for plant roots.

Above Average Fertility Levels

Stark County excels with 4.93% organic matter, surpassing the state average of 4.69%. Combined with an available water capacity of 0.191 in/in, this soil is exceptionally productive.

Superior Moisture Management

Though specific drainage classes are not listed, the high water capacity suggests the soil handles drought periods better than most. The clay and silt levels provide a buffer against rapid moisture loss.

A Gardeners Paradise in 4b

The 4b hardiness zone and neutral soil make Stark County great for everything from tomatoes to sunflowers. It is a perfect place to start a high-yield backyard garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Stark County

via LawnByCounty

Arid Conditions Test Stark County Lawns

Stark County holds a lawn difficulty score of 47.7, trailing behind the state average of 54.0. Homeowners in Hardiness Zone 4b must actively manage their landscapes to overcome the naturally dry and warm local climate.

Low Moisture Limits Natural Growth

At just 16.4 inches of annual precipitation, Stark County is significantly drier than the national ideal of 30-50 inches. Residents deal with 20 extreme heat days per year, requiring a focus on heat-tolerant turf to prevent browning during the summer months.

Perfect Soil pH Offers a Head Start

In a rare victory for local gardeners, the soil pH is a perfectly neutral 7.00, the exact top end of the ideal range for grass growth. This neutral base helps your lawn make the most of fertilizers despite the 23.1% clay content.

Managing Extensive Drought Cycles

The area faced 19 weeks of drought in the past year, highlighting the need for efficient irrigation systems. Because the county is currently clear of drought, now is the time to build soil health to prepare for the next inevitable dry cycle.

Plan Around a Shorter Growing Season

The threat of frost lingers until May 20th and returns as early as September 25th, leaving a narrow window for establishment. For Zone 4b, consider drought-resistant blends and ensure they are seeded well before the late-September frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Stark County's county score?
Stark County, North Dakota has a composite county score of 46.8 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 Stark County rank among counties in North Dakota?
Stark County ranks #48 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 Stark County, North Dakota?
The median annual property tax in Stark County is $2,398, with an effective tax rate of 0.92%. This earns Stark County a tax score of 43.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Stark County?
The median household income in Stark County, North Dakota is $80,744 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Stark County earns an income score of 84.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Stark County, North Dakota a good place to live?
Stark County scores 46.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #48 in North Dakota. The best way to evaluate Stark 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 Stark 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.