Des Lacs Public RecordsNorth Dakota

Des Lacs, a small city in Ward County, North Dakota, had a population of approximately 204 as of the 2020 Census. The community is predominantly White (over 95%), with small percentages identifying as two or more races or Hispanic/Latino. The median age is around 38 years, reflecting a mix of families and older adults. Gender distribution is nearly balanced, with about 51% male and 49% female residents.

Des Lacs, a small city in Ward County, ND, has a homeownership rate of about 82%, with median home values around $175,000. Rental opportunities are limited, with average monthly rents near $900. The property market has remained stable, with slight annual appreciation of 1-2%. Housing consists primarily of single-family homes, with some mobile homes present. Neighborhoods are quiet and family-oriented. Property taxes average 1.1% of assessed value. Overall, Des Lacs offers affordable living in a rural setting.

Des Lacs, in Ward County, ND, is served primarily by the Lewis & Clark School District, which includes Des Lacs-Burlington High School (grades 7–12) and Burlington-Des Lacs Elementary. The high school enrollment is about 250 students, with a graduation rate of approximately 95%. There are no colleges in the city; around 25% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety is rated above state average, with strong anti-bullying policies. Educational programs emphasize STEM and athletics, and the district earned a “B+” niche rating in recent years. Adult education options are limited locally.

Des Lacs, Ward County, ND, relies heavily on personal vehicles, with an estimated 97% of workers commuting by car and less than 1% using public transit. The average one-way commute time is about 20 minutes, shorter than the national average. Transportation infrastructure centers on Highway 2, with no fixed-route public transit service. Nearly 98% of households have at least one vehicle. Major employment hubs are in nearby Minot, approximately 12 miles east, contributing to prevalent outbound commutes. Walking and cycling remain uncommon modes of travel for residents.

Des Lacs, located in Ward County, ND, is a small city with no hospitals; residents typically access care in nearby Minot, which has three hospitals and multiple clinics. The city’s population is about 148, mostly White, with a median age of 38. Common health concerns include heart disease and diabetes, reflecting rural North Dakota trends. Healthcare provider density is low, with <1 primary care provider per 1,000 residents in rural Ward County. Insurance coverage is high—about 92% of Ward County residents have health insurance, primarily through employer-sponsored plans or Medicaid/Medicare.