North Dakota on the Move: Discover the Top States for Relocation

When it comes to relocating, North Dakotans seem to know a thing or two about picking the perfect spot. Whether it’s chasing warmer weather, exploring new career opportunities, or just looking for a change of scenery, people from the Peace Garden State are spreading their wings and finding new homes across the country. But where exactly are they heading?

According to recent data from Stacker, here are the top five states that North Dakotans have been flocking to in 2022.

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#5. Wisconsin: The Land of Cheese and Charm

Coming in at number five, Wisconsin welcomed 1,208 new residents from North Dakota in 2022. That’s 4.26% of North Dakotans who decided to make a move to another state. Perhaps it’s the allure of the Great Lakes, the cheese curds, or just the friendly Midwest vibe, but whatever the reason, Wisconsin has become a popular destination. North Dakotans were the 21st most common origin for people moving to Wisconsin, showing that the Badger State’s charms are hard to resist.

#4. Montana: The Call of the Wild

Next up, with 1,540 North Dakotans packing up and heading west, Montana takes the fourth spot. This accounts for 5.43% of those leaving the state. With its wide-open spaces, majestic mountains, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, Montana is the perfect place for anyone looking to embrace the rugged beauty of the West. North Dakotans were the 9th most common group to move to Montana, proving that the call of the wild is strong.

#3. Arizona: Trading Snow for Sun

In third place, 2,086 North Dakotans traded in their snow boots for sunglasses and moved to Arizona in 2022. That’s 7.36% of North Dakota’s movers. With its warm climate, stunning desert landscapes, and vibrant cities, Arizona offers a stark contrast to the frigid winters of the North. Despite the difference in climate, North Dakotans seem to be fitting right in, even if they are only the 33rd most common group moving to the Grand Canyon State.

#2. Texas: Bigger and Better

Everything’s bigger in Texas, including the number of North Dakotans moving there! In 2022, 2,791 people made the jump to the Lone Star State, making up 9.84% of those leaving North Dakota. Whether it’s the booming job market, the barbecue, or the wide-open spaces, Texas has a lot to offer. North Dakotans ranked as the 40th most common newcomers, but they’re clearly finding plenty of reasons to say “howdy” to Texas.

#1. Minnesota: The Neighbor Next Door

And finally, taking the top spot by a landslide is Minnesota. A whopping 10,946 North Dakotans made the move to their friendly neighbor in 2022. That’s a massive 38.60% of all North Dakotans who relocated to another state. Whether it’s the shared Scandinavian heritage, the proximity to home, or just the love of all things “Minnesota nice,” it’s clear that North Dakotans feel right at home in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. In fact, North Dakota was the second most common origin for people moving to Minnesota, making it the ultimate destination for those looking to stay close but still enjoy a change of pace.

So, whether they’re trading in snow for sun, embracing the wild frontier, or just hopping over to visit the neighbors, North Dakotans are on the move, and these top five states are ready to welcome them with open arms!