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North Dakota

North Dakota is a state in the north-central United States in the Great Plains region.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 10, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

North Dakota is a state in the north-central United States in the Great Plains region. It borders Canada to the north and the U.S. states of Minnesota, South Dakota, and Montana. Its capital is Bismarck, and its largest city is Fargo.

Geography

North Dakota is a north-central U.S. state in the Great Plains. The Missouri River crosses the state, and the Red River forms much of its eastern boundary. The state covers an area of 70,698 sq mi (183,108 km²) and is one of the least densely populated U.S. states. It is known for broad prairies and farmland.

History

The area became part of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 and later the Dakota Territory in 1861. North Dakota was admitted to the Union on November 2, 1889, as the 39th state.

Population and cities

North Dakota has a relatively small population for its size and remains largely rural. According to the 2020 census, the population is 779,094. Fargo is the largest city, followed by Bismarck, Grand Forks, and Minot.

Economy

Agriculture is a major part of the state economy, alongside energy production. North Dakota is also known for oil, natural gas, and large lignite deposits.

Key facts

  • North Dakota became the 39th U.S. state on November 2, 1889.
  • It is bordered by Canada, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Montana.
  • The state is part of the Great Plains and is known for broad prairies and farmland.
  • Bismarck is the state capital, while Fargo is the most populous city.
  • North Dakota is one of the least densely populated U.S. states.
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Canadian context

North Dakota is directly relevant to Canadian readers because it shares an international border with Saskatchewan and Manitoba, and cross-border travel, trade, and regional weather systems often connect the state with Canada.

Frequently asked questions

When did North Dakota become a state?
North Dakota was admitted to the Union on November 2, 1889.
What is North Dakota's capital?
The capital of North Dakota is Bismarck.
What is North Dakota's largest city?
Fargo is North Dakota's most populous city.
Which countries or states border North Dakota?
North Dakota borders Canada, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Montana.
What region is North Dakota in?
North Dakota is in the north-central United States and is part of the Great Plains.

References

  1. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/place/North-Dakota
    Supports: Statehood date, capital, borders, area, and general historical overview.
  2. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/summary/North-Dakota
    Supports: Population, capital, borders, river boundaries, Louisiana Purchase, Dakota Territory, and statehood.
  3. National Geographic Kids — https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/geography/states/article/north-dakota
    Supports: Borders, statehood, Native peoples, and resource information including lignite and petroleum.
  4. North Dakota State Government — https://www.nd.gov/government/fun-facts
    Supports: Dakota Territory history, statehood date, and the meaning of 'Dakota'.
  5. Infoplease — https://www.infoplease.com/us/states/north-dakota
    Supports: Capital, abbreviation, counties, population, land area, and major cities.