BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — North Dakota is already known for many of its exports: Wheat, oil, honey. Now it is also known for its imports: People. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, North Dakota tops the nation in terms of net migration, or the difference between the number of people who move away and the number of people who move here to stay. The state's population grows 1.76 percent annually thanks to net migration, the best growth in that category of the other 49 states. That translates into a yearly gain of 13,601 new North Dakotans. In fact, according to the Census Bureau, 45 states had net migration numbers lower than one percent while 18 states had negative net migration (more people leaving than moving in). So, why is North Dakota adding to its population while other states are stagnant or losing population? Census Bureau data points to at least two reasons: The state's low cost of living and the economic opportunities in energy, technology, healthcare and agriculture. Data from the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center indicates North Dakota has the 12th lowest cost-of-living rate in the nation. Housing costs are well below the national average, as are utilities and groceries. Transportation and miscellaneous costs are higher, matching the national average, and health care costs are a bit above the national average. Overall, according to North Dakota Job Service Labor Market Information data, the average monthly expenses for a single person living in Bismarck and Burleigh County is $2,318. In Fargo and Cass County, those monthly expenses are actually almost $200 less than Burleigh County. And there are plenty of jobs in the state. According to Job Service North Dakota's October 2024 report, online job postings totaled 12,504 positions. While nursing and healthcare topped the list of job openings during the month, openings are strong in the energy sector and technology (specifically, unmanned aerial vehicle support and development positions). Where are the new North Dakotans moving to in the state? According to North Dakota Compass, a social indicators project that measures progress in the state in a wide variety of areas, including demographics, Williams and McKenzie counties led the list of greatest population growth between 2022 and 2023, the most current numbers. Both counties are in the heart of oil production activity in the state. Cass, Burleigh and Morton counties, homes to Fargo, Bismarck and Mandan, also rank at the top of the migration list. Cass and Grand Forks counties are home to many of the growing technology jobs and programs. North Dakota apparently is a strong attraction for Gen Zers. According to national storage unit company StorageCafe, which tracks migration patterns across the U.S., North Dakota ranks 9th on the list of places Gen Zers are moving to. Why? "Known for its friendly residents, low crime rates and strong sense of community, North Dakota is attracting a significant amount of young people," the StorageCafe website reports. "The net gain of 9,200 Gen Zers in 2022 actually represents over 12% of the state’s total population belonging to this generation." According to StorageCafe, roughly 11 percent of Gen Zers became homeowners as soon as they moved to the state. "North Dakota can make an ideal destination for Gen Zers working remotely. This generation has already made waves with their interest in sustainable living and things like growing your own food – so the Peace Garden State is right up their alley." As North Dakota's technology, energy, healthcare and ag industries grow, its demographic make-up will also change with the times, likely erasing a long persistent image of North Dakotans as aging farmers living on rural farmsteads. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW