Foster Public RecordsNorth Dakota

As of the 2020 Census, Foster County, North Dakota, had a population of 3,397. The median age is 45.9 years, with 49.7% male and 50.3% female residents. The racial makeup is predominantly White (96.1%), with small proportions of Hispanic or Latino (2.0%), Native American (0.8%), and other races. The county’s population reflects a largely homogeneous demographic with a significant portion aged 65 or above (23.7%).

Foster County, ND, had approximately 2,269 registered voters as of 2022. Voters participate in federal, state, county, and local elections, with the 2020 presidential election showing 72% turnout and 74% votes cast for the Republican candidate. Elections are overseen by the Foster County Auditor’s office. Polling is primarily held at the Foster County Courthouse in Carrington. Key issues often include agriculture, property taxes, and education. Major parties are Republican and Democratic-NPL. Election administration ensures in-person and absentee voting options. In 2022, county commission races saw incumbents re-elected with over 60% of the vote.

Foster County, ND, has a homeownership rate of approximately 74%, with median home values around $128,000 as of 2023. The median monthly rent is about $650. Property values have remained stable, with slight annual increases of 1-2%. Housing types include primarily single-family homes and some multi-family units, concentrated in neighborhoods like Carrington. The effective property tax rate averages 1.13%. Foster County’s housing market offers affordable options, attracting both homeowners and renters seeking small-town living.

As of 2022, Foster County, ND has an employment rate of approximately 68%, with major industries including agriculture (22%), health care and social assistance (16%), and retail trade (13%). Top occupation types are management (24%), sales and office (18%), and production/transportation (15%). The average commute time is about 15 minutes, and over 75% of workers commute alone by car. Around 65% are employed within the county, while others travel to nearby counties like Stutsman and Barnes for work.

Foster County, ND, is served primarily by Carrington Public Schools, which includes one high school; the district enrolls approximately 650 students across all grades. The high school graduation rate exceeds 92%. About 21% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety measures comply with state standards, and the schools offer programs like FFA, STEM activities, and dual-credit college courses. No universities are located within the county, but adult education is accessible via nearby community colleges and online programs. Schools consistently achieve average to above-average state assessment scores.

Foster County, ND, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the county reported 28 total criminal incidents, including 3 violent crimes and 25 property crimes, according to the North Dakota Uniform Crime Report. No homicides or robberies occurred. The reported crime rate stands at approximately 6.6 incidents per 1,000 residents. Law enforcement agencies prioritize community policing and encourage residents to report suspicious activity, contributing to the area’s high safety perception and below-average crime rates for North Dakota.