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Cost of Living in Bismarck

Is it better to rent or buy in Bismarck? Explore median costs, utility estimates, and run the numbers on your own budget to see how far your income goes.

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Rent vs. Buy Affordability Calculator

Adjust the sliders to match your scenario. We recommend keeping total housing costs under 40% of your gross income.

$89,971
$1,106/mo

Median in area: $1,106

$315,193

Median in area: $315,193

$63,039

If you Rent

🔑
$1,286 /mo
Base Rent$1,106
Est. Utilities$180
% of Income17.2%
Pre-tax Residual$6,212

If you Buy

🏠
$2,178 /mo
P&I (6.5%)$1,594
Taxes & Ins$404
Est. Utilities$180
% of Income29.0%
Pre-tax Residual$5,320

Cost of Living FAQs

Is it cheaper to rent or buy in Bismarck?›

Based on median housing data, renting is currently more affordable on a monthly basis in Bismarck. The estimated all-in monthly cost for renting is $1,286, while owning a median-priced home with a 20% down payment is roughly $2,178 per month (a difference of $892).

How much do utilities cost in Bismarck?›

The average monthly utility cost (electricity and natural gas) for a typical home in Bismarck is approximately $180. This estimate uses local utility rate schedules combined with median energy consumption profiles.

What is a good salary to live comfortably in Bismarck?›

To comfortably afford the median rent and utilities in Bismarck without exceeding the recommended 30% housing-to-income threshold, a household should earn a gross salary of approximately $51,440 per year.