8 Most Comfortable Towns in North Dakota for Seniors
North Dakota has become one of the more attractive states for newly retired seniors seeking a new place to enjoy their golden years. With a mix of serene landscapes, adventure, and affordability, the Flickertail State has a lot to offer aging residents looking for a new place to call home. Many towns in this lovely state beckon seniors, from the historic streets of Langdon to the delicious eateries in Hazelton. Add on plenty of amenities such as senior centers, hospitals, and public transportation, and these eight towns are comfortable destinations for seniors in North Dakota.
Langdon
Langdon is a welcoming spot for retirees, blending a rich cultural scene with a strong sense of community. The Cavalier County Dresden Museum takes you on a journey through the town’s history, displaying artifacts from the early days of pioneers and the local farming traditions. At the city's heart, the Langdon Opera House—an old gem brought back to life—occasionally hosts community events, drawing folks together for cultural gatherings.
When it’s time to eat, locals love the Bread Pan Bakery for its fresh-baked bread and pastries, while Sporty’s Bar serves up comforting American favorites in a cozy setting. For healthcare, Langdon Prairie Health is well-equipped with a full range of services, from general practice to specialized care, giving seniors peace of mind with nearby medical support. With a median housing value of $156,000, $100,000 less than the state average, the town is ideal for all retirees.
Hazelton
Hazelton powerfully embodies the rural feel many seniors seek when they settle down in the later stages of their lives. The town’s population is barely over 200, making the vibe tranquil and peaceful. The Hazelton Health Center is an attractive community feature, offering fast and effective medical services minutes from home.
Despite its size, many attractions in Hazelton make it a popular destination for tourists and travelers, keeping a quiet movement in the community. One such location is the Hazelton Heritage Museum, which helps all embrace this long-standing settlement's historical roots. Residents do not have to look hard for hearty food, either, with options like the 83 Diner and The Ugly serving up comforting classics every night of the week.
Bowman
Bowman is a warm, community-focused town with plenty for retirees to enjoy. The Pioneer Trails Regional Museum explores local history, featuring displays of the area’s wildlife, Native American heritage, and farming roots. For seniors who like to stay active, Sweetwater Golf Course is a peaceful spot to play a game. As relaxing as the year can often be throughout all four seasons, the summer livens up with the Bowman County Fairgrounds, which boasts rodeos, vendors, entertainment, and local eats.
You do not have to travel far to enjoy home-style meals, and this tour begins at Silver Dollar Bar & Grill, a favorite among current residents. Seniors also enjoy Bowman because Southwest Healthcare Services covers their medical needs. This company provides everything from a clinic to a nursing home, giving peace of mind with care nearby. Affordable housing at a median value of $70,000 below the state average and a close-knit atmosphere make Bowman a welcoming place for a comfortable, connected retirement.
New Rockford
Active and involved is the name of the game when retirees decide to set up in New Rockford. There is plenty to keep a resident busy, beginning with abundant natural beauty in the protected lands, parks, and the nearby James River for fishing and scenic strolling. Arts and entertainment are never in short supply, either, with venues like the New Rockford Opera House hosting stage productions year-round alongside art exhibits and community events.
There is plenty to help a senior relax as well in this later stage of life, from reading some books at the New Rockford Public Library to enjoying the homestyle meals served fresh daily at the Rockford Cafe; there is always somewhere to be. Even with all its attractive activities, plenty can make the town appealing to senior citizens, especially the Lutheran Home of the Good Shepherd, a nursing facility in the town. The facility offers everything from medical assistance to senior living, so there is no need to break the bank or worry about your health.
Harvey
Retirees look to Harvey as a destination for their golden years to enjoy a slow-paced lifestyle. Everything is readily available, with plenty of businesses within walkable distance of downtown, such as the First State Bank, SUPERVALU supermarket, and Lemer’s Ace hardware store. Moreover, Harvey has some delectable dining experiences for all tastes, from tapping into your wants of sweets and sips at Bean Counter Café to getting portions of comforting classics at the Hometown Tavern.
One of the town's attractive features for seniors is the St. Aloisius Medical Center. This facility provides comprehensive healthcare through a hospital, clinic, and rehabilitation services. The town’s senior center, the Wells Sheridan Aging Council, hosts regular events and activities, helping residents stay connected and engaged with one another.
Carrington
Carrington is a destination that retirees choose when they want to avoid feeling like they are retiring. There is an abundance of outdoor activities and natural beauty to explore throughout the county, but the epicenter of this exists in the town’s gateway to the Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge, about twenty miles south. The attraction boasts trails, birdwatching, and witnessing wildlife in its natural habitat. Those interested in golfing can head over to the Cross Roads Golf Club to tee off with friends.
Even when you are not taking the day to explore what Carrington has to offer, there is much to do and see, from popular dining establishments like Prairie Inn to getting your basic home essentials at the Super Valu. Seniors will be relieved that healthcare is nearby with the Carrington Health Center, and the Carrington Senior Citizens Center offers plenty to keep a resident busy, engaged, and fit. Retirees can also purchase their dream home with a reasonable median home value of less than $180,000.
Garrison
If you are looking for walleye, you might want to start with its self-proclaimed ‘capital’ in Garrison. This is an absolute dream for those avid about fishing and boating. This small town's placement near Fort Stevenson State Park and the Missouri River offers easy access to outdoor excitement. Similarly, with its stunning views, the Garrison Dam is a favorite local spot for peaceful days by the water. Downtown Garrison is where the community gathers, with places like Ye Olde Malt Shoppe serving classic treats in a nostalgic diner setting. Keep yourself supplied at Krause’s SuperValu, another local gem with home essentials.
For healthcare, Garrison residents have convenient access to facilities in nearby Minot, ensuring peace of mind. The town is also affordable, with a median home value of $225,000, which is around $40,000 less than the state average. The Senior Citizen Center hosts regular events, making it easy to stay connected and build friendships in this inviting community for those in their later stages of life.
Medora
Medora is a charming small town that offers retirees a unique blend of history, culture, and welcoming hospitality. This town is steeped in the legacy of the American West, most notably showcased at the Chateau de Mores State Historic Site, a 26-room hunting lodge built in the 1880s by the Marquis de Morès. The site provides a glimpse into the life of this aristocratic rancher and his family, complete with period furnishings and fascinating exhibits. History enthusiasts can also visit the Billings County Museum, which showcases artifacts from Medora's early settlers, including tools, photographs, and stories of life on the frontier.
For entertainment, the Medora Musical is a must-see event, offering Broadway-style performances celebrating the culture and heritage of North Dakota. Seniors will appreciate Medora's strong sense of community, enhanced by its small-town charm and amenities. The town is also very accessible, with a walkable downtown area that anyone can traverse. For healthcare, residents have access to facilities in nearby Dickinson, such as CHI St. Alexius Health Dickinson, which ensures medical care is close at hand. Seniors can also keep their health in check with plenty of outdoor opportunities at the nearby Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
Wrapping Up
North Dakota is one of the more attractive states for the retiring population. It has a lower property tax and median housing cost than the rest of the United States (nearly $100,000 less on average) and a slower rural feel. Small towns are among the biggest draws for retirees, keeping the bustle of the larger metropolises out of daily life but not fully compromising on amenities like the fishing in Garrison or historically significant sites like the Cavalier County Museum in Langdon.
