Fargo, ND vs Rochester, MN
Side-by-side comparison of housing, income, commute, safety, and quality of life.
Score Snapshot
No universal winner
Scores summarize the published model. Use the objective metric differences below and your own priorities to choose.
Fargo
77.9
#209 nationally
Rochester
76
#401 nationally
Fargo leads in walk score (46 vs 30). Rochester leads in median household income ($83,973 vs $62,891). Fargo leads in cost of living index (94 vs 106).
Metric-by-Metric Breakdown
| Metric | Fargo, ND | Rochester, MN |
|---|---|---|
| WhereAtHome Score | 77.9 (#209) | 76 (#401) |
| Population | 129,798 | 122,413 |
| Typical Home Value (ZHVI) | $326,637 | $347,877 |
| Median Household Income | $62,891 | $83,973 |
| Average Commute | 16.8 min | 17.1 min |
| Walk Score | 46 | 30 |
| Crime Level | Low | 4.2 |
| School Rating | 7.2 | N/A |
| Cost of Living Index | 94 | 106 |
| Political lean County 2024 presidential margin — context only, not scored | R+8.4 | D+10.7 |
C+
77.9 Score
Fargo, ND
Northern Plains energy
Median Home
$326,637
Population
129,798
Crime
Low
Schools
B
Midwest
View Fargo, ND →
C
76 Score
Rochester, MN
Mid-size Minnesota city with community character
Median Home
$347,877
Population
122,413
Crime
Moderate-Low
Walk Score
30
Midwest
View Rochester, MN →