Your Essential Guide to North Dakota's Counties
North Dakota is known for its vast prairies, rich culture, and friendly communities. If you are considering moving, traveling, or researching this beautiful state, knowing about its counties is essential. Here, you will find a quick and comprehensive guide to the list of counties in North Dakota, their unique features, and why understanding them matters for your next adventure or project.
How Many Counties Are There in North Dakota?
North Dakota is divided into 53 counties. Each county has its own local government, services, and unique identity. Understanding these boundaries helps residents and visitors alike navigate the state more easily.
Complete List of Counties in North Dakota
Here is an alphabetically organized list of all counties in North Dakota:
- Adams County
- Barnes County
- Benson County
- Billings County
- Bottineau County
- Bowman County
- Burke County
- Burleigh County
- Cass County
- Cavalier County
- Dickey County
- Divide County
- Dunn County
- Eddy County
- Emmons County
- Foster County
- Golden Valley County
- Grand Forks County
- Grant County
- Griggs County
- Hettinger County
- Kidder County
- LaMoure County
- Logan County
- McHenry County
- McIntosh County
- McKenzie County
- McLean County
- Mercer County
- Morton County
- Mountrail County
- Nelson County
- Oliver County
- Pembina County
- Pierce County
- Ramsey County
- Ransom County
- Renville County
- Richland County
- Rolette County
- Sargent County
- Sheridan County
- Sioux County
- Slope County
- Stark County
- Steele County
- Stutsman County
- Towner County
- Traill County
- Walsh County
- Ward County
- Wells County
- Williams County
Largest and Smallest Counties in North Dakota by Area and Population
If you want to understand the diversity across North Dakota, it helps to know which counties are large or small, either by area or by how many people live there.
- Largest County by Area: McKenzie County is the largest, covering over 2,700 square miles.
- Smallest County by Area: Eddy County is one of the smallest, with just over 630 square miles.
- Most Populous County: Cass County has the largest population, home to Fargo, North Dakota’s biggest city.
- Least Populous County: Slope County typically has the smallest population, with fewer than 800 residents.
Key Cities and County Seats in North Dakota
Each county has a main administrative center called the county seat. These often overlap with important cities that are regional hubs for business, healthcare, and education.
- Fargo (Cass County)
- Bismarck (Burleigh County)
- Grand Forks (Grand Forks County)
- Minot (Ward County)
- Williston (Williams County)
- Jamestown (Stutsman County)
- Mandan (Morton County)
Many other county seats play an essential role in their local areas, providing public services and community events.
Why Understanding North Dakota Counties Matters
Whether you are searching for property, starting a business, relocating, or simply planning a visit, knowing the county layout of North Dakota gives you an advantage. County boundaries affect school districts, voter registration, public records, and emergency services.
For businesses, counties outline tax districts and business licensing areas. For travelers, each county offers unique parks, festivals, or historic sites.
Map of North Dakota Counties
If you need a visual guide, official maps displaying county borders are available from the state government and tourism offices. Many maps highlight major highways, towns, and tourist attractions in each county.
Common Searches About North Dakota Counties
- What is the largest county in North Dakota by population?
- How many counties does North Dakota have?
- What counties border Canada in North Dakota?
- What is the smallest county in North Dakota?
- Which county is Fargo in?
- How can you find property records by county in North Dakota?
Frequently Asked Questions about North Dakota Counties
Which county is Fargo located in?
Fargo is the county seat of Cass County, North Dakota. Cass County is the most populous county and Fargo is the largest city in the state.
What are the counties in North Dakota that border Canada?
The North Dakota counties that border Canada are: Pembina, Cavalier, Towner, Rolette, Bottineau, Renville, Burke, Divide, and Williams.
How do I find property records by county in North Dakota?
You can search for property and public records by visiting the website or office of the county recorder or tax assessor in the specific North Dakota county.
Which is the least populous county in North Dakota?
Slope County is often the least populous county in North Dakota, with fewer than 1,000 residents reported in recent census data.
Why do counties matter in North Dakota government and maps?
Counties divide administrative services and government records. They play a role in school districts, property taxes, law enforcement, and emergency response coverage.
Explore North Dakota’s Counties and What Makes Each Unique
Each North Dakota county brings something special, from vibrant communities to natural attractions like Theodore Roosevelt National Park in Billings and McKenzie counties. As you plan your journey, dive deeper into what each county has to offer, from historic landmarks to local festivals. Understanding the list of North Dakota counties can open new opportunities for research, relocation, or simply broadening your perspective on this remarkable state.
