North Dakota’s population continues to climb, reaching a record 799,358 residents as of July 1, 2025, according to U.S. Census estimates, marking the state’s fourth consecutive year of growth. State Demographer Nigel Haarstad said the state has likely surpassed the 800,000 mark for the first time based on current trends.
“North Dakota continues to see steady growth and attract new residents as one of the best places to live, work and raise a family,” Governor Doug Armstrong said. “From historic property tax relief and reform to phone-free schools and robust economic development, our state made significant progress this past year to improve the quality of life for our citizens, which will always be our top priority.”
The new estimate exceeds the 2024 figure of 796,568 residents by 2,790 and represents an increase of more than 20,000 people since the 2020 census. Haarstad noted that in July 2025, the state was just 642 residents shy of the 800,000 milestone.
“At current growth rates, North Dakota likely crossed this milestone in August 2025,” Haarstad said.
After a slight population dip during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, North Dakota has experienced steady growth every year since. Births continue to outnumber deaths, and total net migration—both domestic and international—remains positive. The state’s working-age population has increased for three consecutive years, reaching 473,249, the highest since 2020.
North Dakota’s population growth rate ranked 14th among all states this year, growing roughly 50% faster than the national average. Overall, the state has grown nearly 19% since 2010, with 46 states reporting population gains this year.
By DNU Staff