Factors influencing moving costs from Ann Arbor to Fargo
What to know before moving from Ann Arbor to Fargo
Moving from Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor than in Fargo, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.
Check out how Ann Arbor compares to Fargo so you know what to expect before you relocate:
Ann Arbor | Fargo | |
---|---|---|
Average rent cost | $2,260 | $1,055 |
Average home value | $474,909 | $287,548 |
Average income (per capita) | $66,964 | $59,493 |
Cost of living (single person) | $2,176 | $1,566 |
Cost of living (family of 4) | $5,344 | $3,299 |
Unemployment rate | 3.5% | 3.6% |
Sales tax | 6.0% | 7.5% |
State income tax | 4.25% | 2.9% |
- Rent prices in Fargo are 53% lower than in Ann Arbor, 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 39.5% lower than in Ann Arbor. - Income in Fargo is 11.2% lower than in Ann Arbor, 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 28.0% lower than in Ann Arbor. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
- The cost of living for a family in Fargo is 38.3% lower than in Ann Arbor.
- The unemployment rate in Fargo is 2.86% higher than in Ann Arbor.
- Youโll spend more on retail and restaurants in Fargo, since the cityโs sales taxes in Fargo are 25.00% higher than in Ann Arbor.
- One perk of moving to Fargo is paying less in state income taxes, which are 31.76% lower than in Ann Arbor.
To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,159.01 in Fargo to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in Ann Arbor.
How life is different in Ann Arbor vs. Fargo
Fargo | Ann Arbor | |
---|---|---|
Population | 125,990 | 123,851 |
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score | 4 | 7 |
Walkability score | 45 | 52 |
Bike friendliness score | 49 | 71 |
Crime Index | 8.0 | 31.0 |
Safety Index | 56.17 | 79.18 |
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
- Fargo's population is about the same as Ann Arbor.
- Fargo's public transportation has a score of 4 out of 10 versus Ann Arbor's higher score of 7.
- Fargo is less walkable than Ann Arbor with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Ann Arbor's 52 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 Ann Arbor, which has a score of 71 out of 100.
- Fargo's crime rate is lower than Ann Arbor with a score of 8.0 compared to Ann Arbor's 31.0. This means that Fargo neighborhoods are safer than 8.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Ann Arbor neighborhoods are safer than 31.0%.
- Fargo is considered to be less safe than Ann Arbor with a score of 56.17 vs Ann Arbor's 79.18.
- Air quality in Fargo is good, and in Ann Arbor it's moderate.
Other things to consider for your Ann Arbor 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
- Stonebridge
- Lincoln
- Horace Mann
Best neighborhoods for families
- Rose Creek
- Southpointe
- Centennial
- Pointe West
- Woodhaven
Things to do in Fargo
After settling into your new North Dakota home, youโll want to branch out and explore your new city. Luckily, Fargo has lots to offer, no matter what youโre interested in:
- Arts and culture: Fargo is home to museums and cultural arts 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 among other sites โ are great places to hike, ride bikes, or just enjoy nature.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer 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 Ann Arbor to Fargo?
The best time to move from Ann Arbor to Fargo is during the spring or fall. These seasons offer milder weather and avoid higher moving costs during the peak moving season in Ann Arbor.
When is the cheapest time to move from Ann Arbor to Fargo?
Because most people are moving from Ann Arbor 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 Ann Arbor to Fargo take?
The 887-mile move from Ann Arbor, MI, to Fargo, ND, takes two to seven days. Some Ann Arbor movers may offer expedited moving if you need it faster. If you need more time, ask your mover about storage options in Fargo.