Fargo vs. Moorhead: Which Side of the Red River Is Right for You?

When it comes to living in the Fargo-Moorhead area, one of the most common questions people ask is: Should I live on the North Dakota side or Minnesota side? While these two cities are neighbors—separated only by the Red River—they each offer a unique lifestyle, housing market, and community feel. Whether you're relocating for work, looking to upgrade your home, or planting roots for the first time, understanding the differences between Fargo and Moorhead can help you make the right move.

Community Vibes

Fargo, ND is the larger and more urban of the two, with a population of around 130,000. It boasts a vibrant downtown, a strong job market, and a growing tech and healthcare sector. The city has a more fast-paced, metropolitan vibe—without losing that Midwestern friendliness.

Moorhead, MN has a population just over 44,000 and feels more residential and community-focused. It's known for its excellent schools, strong arts and education institutions like Concordia College and MSUM, and a quieter, more suburban lifestyle. If you're looking for a slower pace and a tight-knit feel, Moorhead might be your match.

Housing and Real Estate

Fargo tends to offer a broader range of housing options, from sleek downtown condos and new suburban developments to charming character homes in established neighborhoods. Property taxes are generally lower in North Dakota, which can be a draw for budget-conscious buyers.

Moorhead is ideal for those seeking spacious lots, mature trees, and a little more breathing room. Minnesota also offers a homestead tax credit, and first-time homebuyer programs may be more accessible depending on your situation.

Pro Tip: If you're a hometown hero—military, healthcare, police, firefighter, or educator—there may be local real estate incentives on both sides of the river. Ask your agent about hero programs that can save you money when buying or selling.

Taxes and Cost of Living

Minnesota has a notable tax perk: no sales tax on clothing, which can be a big plus for families and fashion-lovers alike. North Dakota, on the other hand, does tax clothing, though its overall sales tax rate is generally lower.

In terms of overall cost of living, North Dakota tends to be slightly more affordable, especially when it comes to income taxes. However, Minnesota offers additional tax credits—especially for education and families—which can be advantageous depending on your circumstances.  Property taxes, special assessments, and price of a lot tend to be more reasonable in Moorhead when compared to a similar sized property in Fargo or West Fargo. 

Schools and Education

Moorhead Public Schools are consistently highly rated, and the city is home to several respected colleges and universities. Fargo schools are also strong and offer more choices in terms of public, private, and charter options.

Both cities have access to excellent educational resources, but if top-tier public schools are your priority, Moorhead often edges out as the frontrunner.

Lifestyle and Recreation

Both Fargo and Moorhead enjoy the full range of four distinct seasons, a strong sense of community, and a host of events, festivals, and parks. Fargo leans more toward entertainment and nightlife with a bustling downtown, while Moorhead offers a more relaxed, family-focused lifestyle with excellent trails, parks, and community events.

If you love live music, art walks, and foodie adventures, Fargo might feel like home. If you prefer bonfires, quiet evenings, and kids’ soccer games, Moorhead could be a better fit.

Final Thoughts

The beauty of the Fargo-Moorhead area is that you can't really go wrong—both cities offer high quality of life, friendly neighbors, and plenty of opportunities.

So, which side of the Red River is right for you?
It depends on your lifestyle, priorities, and what you’re looking for in a home and community. Whether you're drawn to Fargo's energy or Moorhead's charm, I’m here to help you navigate the market and find the perfect fit.

Thinking about making a move? Let’s chat about your goals and find the community that feels like home—on either side of the river.