North Dakota Cities by Population 2026

North Dakota’s local governance consists of 53 counties and around 360 incorporated cities, with the state’s cities divided into classes based on population. This classification affects the structure of government, service provision, and autonomy.

Fargo, North Dakota’s largest city, operates under a mayor-commission government, where the mayor oversees executive functions, and the city commission manages policy and budgets. This system allows Fargo to independently provide services such as public safety, utilities, and infrastructure within the city.

Bismarck, the state capital, uses a commission form of government, where the city commission functions as both the legislative and executive authority. This structure allows commissioners to handle specific administrative areas like public works, health, and finance, ensuring cohesive governance.

Smaller cities and towns, such as Grand Forks and Minot, often employ variations of the commission system, adapted to meet local needs. These cities manage essential services with limited staff, maximizing efficiency while focusing on community-specific requirements.

Counties in North Dakota, particularly in rural areas like Williams County and Stark County, manage services across unincorporated areas, focusing on law enforcement, road maintenance, and public health. County commissions govern these functions, providing essential services in areas without municipal governance.

Unincorporated regions in North Dakota, typically agricultural or sparsely populated, rely heavily on county government. Residents in these areas lack municipal representation but receive services through county-led programs, including emergency response, land use, and infrastructure.

Regional planning councils encourage cooperation among North Dakota’s counties and cities, addressing challenges like rural economic development, land conservation, and cross-county infrastructure projects to sustain growth in diverse communities.