North Dakota records fourth straight year of population growth fueled by migration, births, and economic momentum
Bismarck, North Dakota – North Dakota has reached a major population milestone, continuing a steady upward trend that state leaders say reflects growing confidence in the state’s economy and quality of life. Gov. Kelly Armstrong announced late last month that the state’s population climbed for the fourth year in a row, reaching a record 799,358 people as of July 1, 2025, based on estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau.
According to state officials, this figure places North Dakota closer than ever to crossing the 800,000 mark — a milestone the state had never reached before.
Growth driven by migration, births, and economic strength
State Demographer Nigel Haarstad said the population has likely already passed that threshold since the July estimate was released. In fact, North Dakota was only 642 people short of 800,000 in the official count.
“At current growth rates, North Dakota likely crossed this milestone in August 2025,” he said.
Gov. Armstrong credited the growth to recent policy efforts and broader improvements across the state.
“North Dakota continues to see steady growth and attract new residents as one of the best places to live, work and raise a family,” Armstrong said. “From historic property tax relief and reform to phone-free schools and robust economic development, our state made significant progress this past year to improve the quality of life for our citizens, which will always be our top priority.”
The latest estimate shows an increase of 2,790 residents over the original 2024 estimate of 796,568, and a gain of 20,264 people since the 2020 decennial census. After a short population decline during the COVID period in 2021, North Dakota has posted growth every year since.
Officials say several factors are fueling the increase. Births continue to outnumber deaths, and overall migration remains positive, including both domestic and international moves. The working-age population has also grown for three straight years, reaching 473,249 people, the highest level since 2020.
On a national scale, North Dakota ranked 14th among all states for per capita population growth, expanding at a pace roughly 50 percent faster than the national average. Since 2010, the state’s population has grown by nearly 19 percent. Nationwide, 46 states recorded population growth in the most recent estimates.
State leaders say the trend signals long-term stability and growing opportunity, with population growth helping support schools, businesses, and local communities across North Dakota.
