Ward Public RecordsNorth Dakota

As of 2023, Ward County, ND, has an estimated population of approximately 70,000. The median age is about 34, with 23% under 18 and 14% over 65. Females make up roughly 49%, and males 51%. The racial composition is predominantly White (86%), with smaller Black or African American (3%), Native American (4%), Asian (2%), and those identifying as Hispanic or Latino (5%). The area is largely non-Hispanic but is seeing gradual increases in diversity.

Ward County, North Dakota, had approximately 40,000 registered voters in 2022. The county administers federal, state, and local elections, with major parties including Republican and Democratic-NPL. In the 2020 presidential election, about 71% voted Republican and 26% Democratic. There are over 20 polling locations, including those in Minot. Common issues on ballots include school bonds and local taxes. Elections are managed by the Ward County Auditor’s office. Voter turnout typically ranges from 65% to 75% in general elections, illustrating strong civic engagement in the county.

Ward County, ND, boasts a homeownership rate of approximately 66%, with median home values around $235,000 and median gross rent at $975 per month. The county’s housing market has seen gradual value increases of 2-3% annually. Single-family homes dominate, though apartments and mobile homes are also present. Minot, the largest city, features diverse neighborhoods from historic downtown to newer suburbs. Property tax rates average 1.4% of assessed value, lower than the national average. Rental vacancy rates hover near 7%, providing balanced options for both renters and buyers.

As of 2022, Ward County, ND, had an employment-population ratio of 62.7%, with an unemployment rate near 2.3%. Major industries include health care and social assistance (15%), retail trade (11%), and construction (10%). Leading occupations are office and administrative support (14%) and sales (11%). The median commute time is 16.7 minutes, with 89% of workers commuting by car; most work within the county, primarily in Minot, the largest city and employment hub.

Ward County, ND, has 37 public schools serving around 13,000 students, including notable high schools like Minot High. The high school graduation rate is around 88%, and about 25% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools score close to the ND state average in standardized tests. Educational programs include AP courses, career and technical education, and adult learning opportunities. School safety is prioritized, with incidents below the national average, and most schools rated above 6/10 in safety and academic performance.

Ward County, ND, has a crime rate slightly below the national average, with a violent crime rate of 2.9 incidents per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 13.2 per 1,000, based on recent FBI reports. In 2023, the county reported 116 violent crimes and 526 property crimes. The sheriff’s office emphasizes community policing and encourages public reporting through its anonymous tip line, contributing to high case clearance rates. Overall, Ward County is considered relatively safe, though residents are advised to remain vigilant, especially in urban areas like Minot.