AI-Scored Rankings • Updated 2026-04-03

Best Apartments in Grand Forks, ND — Scored by AI

ListWise scores every Grand Forks neighborhood on safety, walkability, schools, commute time, and rental value. See which areas actually match your lifestyle — not just what's cheapest.

$850/mo
Median Rent
59,166
Population
8
Neighborhoods Scored
Altru Health System
Top Employer
Local Insights

Why Grand Forks? What Renters Need to Know

Average rent in Grand Forks is approximately $850 per month, among the more affordable options in the Northern Plains region. The University of North Dakota area and newer south-side developments have slightly higher rents.

Quick Facts

Population 59,166
Median Rent $850/mo
Top Employer Altru Health System
Neighborhoods 8 scored by AI
Rent vs. National$850 vs $1,500 national median

Rent Comparison

Grand Forks median rent is $650 below the national median of $1,500/mo — an affordable market.

Largest Employer

The largest employer in Grand Forks is Altru Health System, making the Downtown Grand Forks area and nearby neighborhoods popular for commuters looking to minimize travel time.

Top Neighborhoods

Top Neighborhoods in Grand Forks

Ranked by ListWise's composite AI score. Top 3 shown free — unlock all 8 for the full picture.

#1

Downtown Grand Forks

Score: 74/100
Safety B
Walk Score 66
Avg Rent $900
Schools 6/10
#2

University Neighborhood

Score: 78/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 60
Avg Rent $880
Schools 7/10
#3

South Grand Forks

Score: 76/100
Safety B
Walk Score 38
Avg Rent $900
Schools 7/10

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#4

West End

Score: 70/100
Safety B-
Walk Score 44
Avg Rent $820
Schools 6/10
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#5

Columbia Road Corridor

Score: 72/100
Safety B
Walk Score 32
Avg Rent $850
Schools 6/10
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#6

East Grand Forks (MN)

Score: 74/100
Safety B
Walk Score 42
Avg Rent $830
Schools 7/10
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#7

Near North Side

Score: 64/100
Safety C+
Walk Score 50
Avg Rent $760
Schools 5/10
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#8

Riverside Park Area

Score: 76/100
Safety B+
Walk Score 54
Avg Rent $870
Schools 7/10
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See All 8 Grand Forks Neighborhoods Ranked

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How It Works

How ListWise Scores Grand Forks Apartments

1

Tell Us Your Priorities

Rank what matters: safety, schools, walkability, commute, budget, nightlife. Every Grand Forks renter is different.

2

AI Scores Every Listing

We pull real-time data from MLS, crime stats, school ratings, transit APIs, and walk score databases for Grand Forks.

3

Get Your Ranked List

Receive a PDF + Excel report with Grand Forks properties ranked by YOUR priorities. Delivered within 24 hours.

FAQ

Frequently Asked About Grand Forks

What is the average rent in Grand Forks, ND?

Average rent in Grand Forks is approximately $850 per month, among the more affordable options in the Northern Plains region. The University of North Dakota area and newer south-side developments have slightly higher rents.

Is Grand Forks a good college town?

Grand Forks is a solid college town anchored by the University of North Dakota, offering a lively downtown, affordable living, and the Fighting Hawks athletic program. It has a smaller, more intimate feel than most Big Sky Conference cities.

What are the winters like in Grand Forks?

Grand Forks has some of the most extreme winters in the continental US, with average January highs around 10°F and frequent blizzard conditions. The city is well-prepared for winter operations, but newcomers should be mentally and practically ready for a serious cold-weather lifestyle.

What is the job market like in Grand Forks?

The University of North Dakota, Altru Health System, Grand Forks Air Force Base, and agricultural processing are the dominant employers. The defense drone testing sector has grown significantly, with the Northern Plains UAS Test Site attracting aerospace companies.

What outdoor activities are available in Grand Forks?

Grand Forks sits on the Red River and has invested heavily in its Greenway park system following the catastrophic 1997 flood. Kayaking and fishing on the Red River, the Grand Forks Greenway trail network, and winter sports are the primary outdoor activities.

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Data is for informational purposes only. Verify all information independently before making housing decisions.