This city offers excellent job opportunities, making it an ideal place to begin your American Dream in the United States.
North Dakota is a state that combines the charm of small communities with the energy of growing cities. Its natural beauty includes rolling plains, hills, and expansive farmland. It’s known for its agricultural production and rich cultural and historical heritage.
The city of Carrington stands out for its welcoming atmosphere and steady growth. Despite development, it remains one of the most affordable cities in the United States. According to the 2020 Census, Carrington has a population of 2,080. It is known for its strong agricultural industry and its strategic location within the state.
One of the key advantages of living in Carrington is its affordable housing. On average, a person can expect to spend between 30% and 35% of their monthly income on rent.
Basic utilities in Carrington are also affordable. On average, a person may spend between 5% and 10% of their monthly budget on services like electricity, water, gas, and internet.
Food expenses typically range between 12% and 15% of a person’s monthly budget.
As for transportation, people in Carrington typically spend between 10% and 15% of their budget on transportation—comparable to or even lower than other cities of similar size across the U.S.
Carrington provides affordable public transportation for residents of all ages and purposes:
In-town transportation: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A ride to the Senior Center for a meal costs $0.50 each way. A ride to any other location in the city costs $1.00 per trip or stop.
Out-of-town transportation: Transportation outside the city is available upon request.
These services operate Monday through Friday. It’s recommended to schedule your ride in advance by calling (701) 652-3257.
Before the arrival of pioneers, the Carrington area was significant to Native American tribes. Hawk’s Nest Ridge, located in a chain of hills southwest of the city, was a sacred site.
Like many communities in North Dakota, Carrington’s development was driven by the arrival of the railroad. By 1882, the Northern Pacific line passed through the settlement, providing access to goods like lumber, which enabled the construction of homes and stores. As the community grew, it was named after a local business leader.
Extreme Temperature Swings: Temps can shift by 50°F (28°C) in a single day during spring and fall. In winter, expect 5°F to 25°F (-15°C to -4°C), but wind chill can make it feel as cold as -20°F (-29°C) or lower.
Windy Year-Round: Gusts amplify cold in winter and storms in summer.
Low Precipitation: Mostly dry outside of summer thunderstorms.
Carrington offers a wide variety of recreational activities for all ages, ranging from cultural events and community festivals to outdoor adventures and historical tours.
Local residents recommend exploring the beautiful parks and trails in and around the city, perfect for hiking, biking, or simply enjoying the natural scenery. Thanks to its welcoming small-town charm, Carrington also hosts seasonal fairs, sports events, and family-friendly gatherings that bring the community together.
The city’s strong agricultural roots are celebrated through local markets and fairs, while its central location in North Dakota makes it an ideal spot for hunting, fishing, and birdwatching throughout the year.