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30-Year Fixed6.625%-0.125|15-Year Fixed5.875%-0.063|30-Year FHA6.375%-0.125|30-Year VA6.125%-0.063|5/1 ARM6.125%0.000|7/1 ARM6.250%+0.063|30-Year Jumbo7.125%-0.188|15-Year Jumbo6.625%-0.125|CA Avg6.550%-0.080|TX Avg6.720%+0.050|FL Avg6.680%-0.030|NY Avg6.500%-0.100|PA Avg6.450%-0.050|IL Avg6.580%+0.020|OH Avg6.380%-0.070|GA Avg6.650%0.000|NC Avg6.520%-0.040|MI Avg6.480%-0.060|AZ Avg6.600%+0.030|WA Avg6.420%-0.090|30-Year Fixed6.625%-0.125|15-Year Fixed5.875%-0.063|30-Year FHA6.375%-0.125|30-Year VA6.125%-0.063|5/1 ARM6.125%0.000|7/1 ARM6.250%+0.063|30-Year Jumbo7.125%-0.188|15-Year Jumbo6.625%-0.125|CA Avg6.550%-0.080|TX Avg6.720%+0.050|FL Avg6.680%-0.030|NY Avg6.500%-0.100|PA Avg6.450%-0.050|IL Avg6.580%+0.020|OH Avg6.380%-0.070|GA Avg6.650%0.000|NC Avg6.520%-0.040|MI Avg6.480%-0.060|AZ Avg6.600%+0.030|WA Avg6.420%-0.090|

Mortgage Rates in North Dakota

Current mortgage rates updated daily for North Dakota. Average 30yr fixed: 6.73%. Median home price: $285,000.

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Current Rates

30-Year Fixed6.73%
15-Year Fixed6.23%
5/1 ARM6.13%

Housing Market

Median Home Price$285,000
Down Payment (20%)$57,000
Property Tax0.98%

Monthly Payment

P&I (Principal & Interest)$1,476
Property Tax$233
Total (P&I + Tax)$1,709
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Quick Facts — North Dakota

6.73%
Avg 30yr Rate
$285,000
Median Home Price
779K
Population
0.98%
Property Tax
Top Cities: Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks

North Dakota Mortgage Market Overview 2026

The mortgage market in North Dakota in 2026 offers a dynamic landscape for home buyers and homeowners alike. With an average 30-year fixed rate of 6.73%and a median home price of $285,000, North Dakota presents a distinctive profile in the national housing market. The effective property tax rate of 0.98% is a key factor in total monthly housing costs for residents across the state.

North Dakota’s population of 779K supports a vibrant real estate ecosystem spanning major metropolitan areas and growing suburban communities. Top cities such as Fargo, Bismarck and Grand Forksoffer diverse housing options that cater to first-time buyers, growing families, and retirees alike. Population trends continue to shape demand patterns across these markets, influencing both home prices and mortgage rate availability.

Home buyers in North Dakota are encouraged to compare offers from multiple lenders and factor in the state’s property tax structure when calculating their total monthly payment. With the current average rate of 6.73%, locking in a competitive rate early in the home search process can result in substantial savings over the 30-year term of a typical mortgage. As local housing conditions evolve throughout 2026, staying informed about North Dakota’s market trends will help buyers make confident financing decisions.

Why Choose a Specific Loan Type in North Dakota?

FHA Loans in North Dakota

FHA loans are a popular choice in North Dakota for first-time buyers and borrowers with limited down payment savings. With down payments as low as 3.5% and more flexible credit requirements, FHA financing opens the door to homeownership across cities like Fargo. The FHA loan limit in most areas of North Dakota supports the median home price of $285,000, making this program a practical path for many households looking to enter the market with a manageable upfront investment.

VA Loans in North Dakota

VA loans provide eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and military families with 0% down payment financing in North Dakota. With no private mortgage insurance (PMI) requirements and competitively low rates, VA loans are among the most valuable mortgage benefits available.North Dakota’s veteran community can leverage this entitlement to purchase homes across the state with minimal closing costs and no monthly mortgage insurance premiums.

USDA Loans in North Dakota

USDA loans offer 0% down financing for eligible rural and suburban home buyers throughout North Dakota. Designed to promote homeownership in designated rural areas, USDA loans feature below-market interest rates and reduced mortgage insurance costs compared to conventional loans. Many areas outside Fargo and Bismarck qualify for USDA eligibility, making this an excellent option for buyers seeking properties in the state’s qualifying regions.

Tips for Getting the Best Mortgage Rate in North Dakota

  1. Improve your credit score. A higher credit score unlocks access to the lowest available rates. Aim for a score of 740 or above to qualify for the best conventional loan pricing from lenders in North Dakota.
  2. Shop multiple lenders. Rates can vary by 0.25–0.50% or more between lenders in North Dakota. Obtaining quotes from at least three to five lenders allows you to compare terms and potentially save thousands over the life of your loan.
  3. Consider discount points. Paying discount points upfront reduces your interest rate for the duration of the loan. In North Dakota, each point typically reduces the rate by about 0.25%, which can be a smart strategy if you plan to stay in the home for several years.
  4. Lock your rate at the right time. Mortgage rates change daily based on market conditions. When you see a competitive rate in North Dakota, locking it in protects you from increases while your application is being processed.
  5. Choose the right loan term. A 30-year fixed mortgage offers the lowest monthly payment, but a 15-year fixed rate of 6.23% could save tens of thousands in interest over time. Evaluate your budget and long-term goals to pick the term that works best for your situation in North Dakota.

Monthly Payment Scenarios in North Dakota

See how different home prices and down payments affect your monthly mortgage payment in North Dakota, including estimated property taxes.

Home Price10% Down15% Down20% Down25% Down
$199,500$1,383/mo$1,319/mo$1,254/mo$1,190/mo
$242,250$1,680/mo$1,601/mo$1,523/mo$1,445/mo
$285,000$1,976/mo$1,884/mo$1,792/mo$1,699/mo
$327,750$2,273/mo$2,166/mo$2,060/mo$1,954/mo
$370,500$2,569/mo$2,449/mo$2,329/mo$2,209/mo

* Estimates include principal, interest, estimated property tax, and estimated homeowners insurance. Actual payments may vary based on credit score, exact rate, and insurance costs.

First-Time Home Buyer Programs in North Dakota

First-time home buyers in North Dakota have access to several programs designed to make homeownership more accessible:

Down Payment Assistance

Many states offer grants or forgivable loans ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 to help cover down payment and closing costs. Check with North Dakota’s housing finance authority for current programs.

FHA 3.5% Down Loans

With a credit score of 580+, you can qualify for an FHA loan with just 3.5% down. On a $285,000 home, that’s only $9,975 down.

Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC)

First-time buyers may qualify for a federal tax credit worth up to $2,000 annually through the Mortgage Credit Certificate program, reducing your effective federal tax bill.

Conventional 97 Program

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac offer 3% down conventional loans for qualified first-time buyers with strong credit (typically 660+). PMI is required but cancellable once you reach 20% equity.

Frequently Asked Questions — North Dakota

What is the average mortgage rate in North Dakota?+
As of mid-2026, the average 30-year fixed rate in North Dakota is 6.73%. This varies by credit score, down payment, and lender.
How much down payment do I need in North Dakota?+
On the median home of $285,000, 20% down is $57,000. FHA needs 3.5%, VA and USDA may offer 0% down.
What are top cities to buy a home in North Dakota?+
Top cities include Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks. Each offers unique neighborhoods, job markets, and housing styles to suit different budgets.
What credit score do I need for a mortgage in North Dakota?+
Most lenders in North Dakota require a minimum credit score of 620 for conventional loans. FHA loans may accept scores as low as 580, while VA loans have no official minimum but most lenders look for 620+. A higher score of 740+ will qualify you for the best rates.
What are the closing costs in North Dakota?+
Closing costs in North Dakota typically range from 2% to 5% of the home purchase price. On a $285,000 home, that means $$8,550 to $$14,250 in closing costs. These include lender fees, title insurance, appraisal, and escrow charges.
Are there first-time home buyer programs in North Dakota?+
Yes, North Dakota offers several first-time home buyer programs including down payment assistance, tax credits, and favorable loan terms. Many local housing authorities in Fargo and Bismarck provide grants and low-interest loans to help first-time buyers with down payments and closing costs.
What is the housing market forecast for North Dakota?+
The housing market in North Dakota is expected to remain competitive through 2026 with steady demand driven by the state’s population of 779K. With a median home price of $285,000 and rates around 6.73%, moderate price appreciation is anticipated as inventory conditions evolve.
How do North Dakota property taxes compare to the national average?+
North Dakota’s effective property tax rate of 0.98% compares to the national average of roughly 1.1%. This means property taxes in North Dakota are below the national average, which can significantly impact your total monthly housing costs and overall affordability.
What is the difference between fixed-rate and ARM loans in North Dakota?+
A fixed-rate mortgage locks in your rate for the entire loan term (e.g., 6.73% for 30 years), providing predictable monthly payments. An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) starts lower—currently around 6.13%—but can change after an initial fixed period. ARMs may suit buyers who plan to move or refinance within a few years.
Can I get a mortgage with 0% down in North Dakota?+
Yes, 0% down payment mortgages are available in North Dakota through VA loans for eligible veterans and USDA loans for qualified buyers in designated rural areas. Some conventional loans also offer 3% down options for first-time buyers. These programs make homeownership more accessible without requiring a large upfront payment.

More Resources for North Dakota Home Buyers