Fessenden, ND
Population 477 · North Dakota
About Fessenden, ND
Fessenden is a small community located in North Dakota with a population of 477 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,125 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.7 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Fessenden features a median home value of $73,300, which is 70% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Fessenden one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $605, 48% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 324 total housing units, 75% are owner-occupied (185 units) and 25% are renter-occupied (62 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Fessenden shows an unemployment rate of 0.4%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 19.7%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Fessenden have an average one-way commute time of 11.3 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
19.8% of Fessenden residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.8% of the population being foreign-born.
How Fessenden Ranks in North Dakota
Cost of Living in Fessenden, ND
Compared to national averages, Fessenden has a median household income of $65,125 (13% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $73,300, which is 70% below the national median. Monthly rent at $605 is 48% below the US average of $1,163. Within North Dakota, Fessenden's income is 10% below the state average of $72,691, and home values are 47% below the state median of $139,496.
Why Live in Fessenden, ND?
Fessenden offers affordable housing with a median home value of $73,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $605/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.4%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 11.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,125) that falls below the national average. However, Fessenden’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Fessenden has a population of 477 with a median age of 42.7 years. Compare Fessenden with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in North Dakota.
Similar Cities Near Fessenden
Cities in North Dakota with a similar population size.
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in North Dakota
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Fessenden With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Fessenden
What is the population of Fessenden, ND?
The population of Fessenden, ND is 477 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in North Dakota.
What is the median household income in Fessenden?
The median household income in Fessenden, ND is $65,125 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Fessenden?
The median home value in Fessenden, ND is $73,300, which is 70% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Fessenden?
The median monthly rent in Fessenden, ND is $605, which is 48% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Fessenden?
The unemployment rate in Fessenden, ND is 0.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Fessenden, ND a good place to live?
Fessenden offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 477 and a median age of 42.7, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Fessenden, ND?
19.8% of residents in Fessenden aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Fessenden?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Fessenden, ND: median home value is $73,300 (70% below national), median rent is $605/month, and median household income is $65,125. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Fessenden?
The poverty rate in Fessenden, ND is 19.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Fessenden, ND?
Fessenden's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.8% of residents are foreign-born.