Dunn County Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Dunn County, ND, had a population of approximately 4,095. The median age was 39.4 years, with about 51% male and 49% female residents. Racially, 85.2% identified as White, 11.4% as American Indian or Alaska Native, and 0.4% as Black or African American, with 2.9% identifying as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents comprised 1.6% of the population.

Dunn County Elections

As of 2024, Dunn County, ND, has approximately 2,400 registered voters. Elections include local, state, and federal races, with the county favoring Republicans—Donald Trump received over 85% of the presidential vote in 2020. Polling locations include Killdeer City Hall and county community centers. Voters address issues like energy, agriculture, and property taxes. The Dunn County Auditor’s Office administers elections while following North Dakota’s no-party voter registration system. Major parties are Republican and Democratic-NPL, but turnout for primary or nonpartisan positions usually remains below 40%.

Dunn County Housing

Dunn County, ND, has a homeownership rate above 80%, with median home values around $200,000 and typical rents near $900/month. The housing market remains stable, reflecting a slight annual appreciation under 3% as of 2023. Housing consists mostly of single-family homes, with some mobile and manufactured housing, scattered across rural neighborhoods and small towns like Killdeer and Halliday. Property taxes are relatively low, with an average effective tax rate near 1.1%, equating to about $2,200 on a median-valued home. Rental inventory is limited, catering mostly to oilfield workers and local families.

Employment in Dunn County

As of 2022, Dunn County, ND, had an unemployment rate of approximately 2.3%. The largest employers are in mining, quarrying, oil & gas extraction (25%), construction (12%), and agriculture (11%). About 63% of workers are employed in management, business, science, and arts occupations. Most residents (over 75%) commute by car, with 53% working outside their city of residence but mainly within Dunn County. The average commute time is about 24 minutes.

Education in Dunn County

Dunn County, ND, has a limited educational infrastructure with only 2 public schools serving K-12 students. The high school graduation rate is approximately 91.7%. However, just 16% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the national average. School safety ratings are generally positive, with minimal reported incidents. Educational programs include basic curricula and some vocational options. Adult education opportunities are limited, often requiring residents to access programs in neighboring counties. Test scores in local schools average around the state mean, with continued efforts to improve academic performance and expand offerings.

Dunn County Crime & Safety

Dunn County, ND, is known for its low crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the violent crime rate was approximately 85 incidents per 100,000 residents, significantly below the U.S. average of 380. Property crime is also low, with about 215 cases per 100,000. The county sheriff’s office actively reports crime statistics and focuses on community policing. Emergency response times average under 15 minutes. Overall, Dunn County remains one of North Dakota’s safer rural areas, with consistent law enforcement presence and proactive safety efforts contributing to positive public safety outcomes.