Factors influencing moving costs from Washington DC to Fargo
What to know before moving from Washington DC to Fargo
Moving from Washington DC to Fargo means adjusting to a different pace of life โ and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in Washington DC than in Fargo, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Washington DC compares to Fargo so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Washington DC | Fargo | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $2,400 | $1,055 |
Average home value | $594,337 | $287,548 |
Average income (per capita) | $101,722 | $59,493 |
Cost of living (single person) | $3,963 | $1,566 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $11,093 | $3,299 |
Unemployment rate | 7.0% | 3.6% |
Sales tax | 6.0% | 7.5% |
State income tax | 5.75% | 2.9% |
- Rent prices in Fargo are 56% lower than in Washington DC, which means youโll have more money in your pocket each month.
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In terms of homeownership, youโll be able to get more for your money in Fargo.
Home prices in Fargo are 51.6% lower than in Washington DC. - Income in Fargo is 41.5% lower than in Washington DC, so you could earn less for doing the same job. The top employers in Fargo include Noridian Mutual Insurance Company, TMI Hospitality, and Scheels.
- The cost of living for a single person in Fargo is 60.5% lower than in Washington DC. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Fargo is 70.3% lower than in Washington DC.
- The unemployment rate in Fargo is 48.57% lower than in Washington DC.
- Youโll spend more on retail and restaurants in Fargo, since the cityโs sales taxes in Fargo are 25.00% higher than in Washington DC.
- One perk of moving to Fargo is paying less in state income taxes, which are 49.57% lower than in Washington DC.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $1,185.47 in Fargo to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Washington DC.
How life is different in Washington DC vs. Fargo
Fargo | Washington DC | |
---|---|---|
Population | 125,990 | 705,749 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 4 | 9 |
Walkability score | 45 | 77 |
Bike friendliness score | 49 | 70 |
Crime Index | 8.0 | 60.37 |
Safety Index | 56.17 | 39.63 |
Air Quality | Good | Good |
- Fargo's population is about 82% less than Washington DC.
- Fargo's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Washington DC's higher score of 9.
- Fargo is less walkable than Washington DC with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Washington DC's 77 out of 100.
- Fargo has a bike-friendliness score 49 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as Washington DC, which has a score of 70 out of 100.
- Fargo's crime rate is lower than Washington DC with a score of 8.0 compared to Washington DC's 60.37. This means that Fargo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Washington DC neighborhoods are safer than 60.37%.
- Fargo is considered to be safer than Washington DC with a safety index of 56.17 vs Washington DC's 39.63.
- Air quality in Fargo is good, and in Washington DC it's good.
Other things to consider for your Washington DC vs. Fargo move
- Weather: August, July and June are the most pleasant months in Fargo, while January and December are the least comfortable months.
- HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
- Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
- State licensing: All local and intrastate movers operating in the Flickertail State are regulated by the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT). Each mover in good standing is issued an NDDOT Number, which consumers may check the status and validity of by calling the phone number listed below.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a North Dakota moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving permits: North Dakota doesn\โt require moving permits, but it\โs still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
- Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Youโll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Fargo. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, providing minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your selected moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.
Where to live in Fargo
Ready to relocate to "Fargo"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Fargo.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Longfellow
- Rose Creek
- Southpointe
- Stonebridge
- Horace Mann
Best neighborhoods for families
- Rose Creek
- Southpointe
- Centennial
- Pointe West
- Woodhaven
Things to do in Fargo
After getting comfortable in your new North Dakota home, itโs time to see what Fargo is all about. Whether you're into food, art, nature, or nightlife โ thereโs plenty to check out:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Fargo include museums and art centers like the Fargo Air Museum, Roger Maris Museum, and Plains Art Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: The cityโs Lindenwood Park, Rheault Farm, Northern Plains Botanic Garden Society, and Broadway Square โ and more, offering great opportunities to hike, bike, or relax in nature.
- Sports: Nothing beats the thrill of cheering on the home team at an Fargo Force (USHL) and North Dakota State Bison (Summit League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Washington DC to Fargo?
The best time to move from Washington DC to Fargo is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Washington DC.
When is the cheapest time to move from Washington DC to Fargo?
Because most people are moving from Washington DC to Fargo in the spring or fall, you can often catch discounts by moving in the winter. Read our guide on moving discounts to learn more.
How long does a move from Washington DC to Fargo take?
The 1,337-mile move from Washington DC, MD, to Fargo, ND, takes three to eight days. Some Washington DC movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Fargo.