Independent Living in North Dakota

North Dakota is a unique and diverse retirement destination that extends from the highlands of the Missouri Plateau to the fertile farmlands along the Red River Valley. Residents can explore some of the state’s historic sites by visiting the Theodore Roosevelt National Park or the reconstructed Fort Union Trading Post. Although North Dakota has just 762,062 residents, it’s home to nearly 120,000 senior citizens who represent more than 15% of the population. The state’s three metropolitan centers and five micropolitan areas give residents access to cultural attractions, entertainment and high-quality medical care.

Independent living in private apartments or stand-alone cottages is an option at many continuing care retirement communities. This can be ideal for active seniors without care needs who don’t want to worry about maintenance and other responsibilities of homeownership. According to Genworth Financial, the median cost of independent living in North Dakota is $2,662 per month, which is slightly lower than the national average.

Seniors who want to learn more about independent living can find information about average prices and potential payment options in this guide. It also includes a directory of statewide programs that can help older adults maintain their independence.

Note: Independent Living costs are generally 30%-40% lower than costs for Assisted Living, but there’s no definitive source for national Independent Living costs. This guide estimates Independent Living costs by subtracting 35% from the Assisted Living costs found in the Genworth Financial Cost of Care Survey.

North Dakota’s monthly estimated cost of $2,204 for Independent Living is relatively low when compared to national and regional averages. In general, seniors can expect to pay $2,925 a month for this level of care elsewhere in the nation. Independent Living is also relatively affordable in South Dakota, where the estimated monthly cost is $2,177. Prices are much closer to the national average in North Dakota’s other two border states: $2,893 in Montana and $2,930 in Minnesota.

Within the state of North Dakota, the cheapest Independent Living options are found on the eastern edge of the state in Grand Forks, where the estimated monthly cost is just $1,430. Prices jump significantly just 90 minutes south in Fargo, though, with that city’s costs at $2,496. Meanwhile, at $2,412, prices in the state capital of Bismarck come in just below those of Fargo.

Independent Living is the most affordable long-term care option for seniors in North Dakota, but for some seniors, other options may be more convenient or more suited to their needs. Adult Day Care usually costs about $3,383 per month, but it’s not the best choice for older adults who need constant care or observation. Assisted Living offers a more robust level of care and is approximately the same price at $3,391. Homemaker and Home Health Aide service options have caretakers come directly to seniors’ residences to provide care; both average $5,689 a month in North Dakota. Finally, intensive care is available in Nursing Homes, but the monthly cost of such care is quite high in this state: $11,978 for a semi-private room and $12,587 for private quarters.

Although independent living costs less than other long-term care options, there are fewer financial assistance programs available. Most seniors pay for independent living out of pocket using their retirement income, just as they would pay for their living expenses if they stayed in the community. Seniors who want to increase their monthly cash flow or need a lump sum for move-in expenses may consider selling real estate or applying for a reverse mortgage. Financial assistance may also be available through long-term care insurance, VA benefits and Medicaid, although these options only pay for medically necessary services, such as meal preparation, grocery shopping assistance and transportation. Our guide to independent living provides a more complete look at estimated costs and possible payment options.