Crime Rates in North Dakota

North Dakota, often referred to as the “Peace Garden State,” is known for its beautiful landscapes, low population density, and friendly communities. While these things contribute to a generally peaceful environment, like any state, crime still happens—even in the quiet, calm areas.

In 2023, North Dakota ranked #26 in the U.S. for Crime & Corrections, placing it near the national average. The North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) monitors crime throughout the state, providing a detailed analysis of all crime statistics and crime data in North Dakota.

Here’s what you need to know about crime in North Dakota and how you can protect yourself.

Property Crime

Property crime involves damage to or theft of personal belongings. This includes willful destruction of property (vandalism), unlawful entry into a building with intent to commit a crime (burglary), motor vehicle theft, shoplifting, and all other types of larceny/theft. Property crime accounts for 50% of all crime in North Dakota.

The property crime rate in North Dakota is 1,941 per 100,000 residents, slightly below the national average of 1,954.4 per 100,000 people, as reported by the FBI’s National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS).

The most prevalent property crime in North Dakota is larceny/theft, which involves stealing someone’s personal belongings. Larceny/theft accounts for a large number of all state property crimes.

How to Protect Yourself

Adopting certain habits can significantly help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of property crime:

• Lock doors and windows: Always secure your home and vehicle, even during the day.
• Never leave your belongings unattended in public areas.
• Utilize tracking tools like Find My iPhone or AirTags for electronic devices and other belongings.
• Keep valuables out of sight, especially in your vehicle.
• Park in well-lit areas.

Taking these precautions can reduce your risk of becoming a victim of property crime and deter potential criminals.

Violent Crime

Violent crime refers to crimes that involve force or threat of force. Violent crime includes assault, intimidation, stalking, as well as more serious acts, such as sexual assault, kidnapping, and aggravated assault.

Violent crime accounts for 24% of all crime in North Dakota, with a violent crime rate of 267.4 per 100,000 people, according to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting. The FBI reported the national average violent crime rate to be 380.7 per 100,000 people, making North Dakota’s number of property crimes notably lower than the national average.

The most common violent crimes in North Dakota are simple assault and intimidation. In many cases, the victim knows the person who committed the crime–often a romantic partner or an acquaintance.

How to Stay Safe

Knowing certain safety tactics can greatly benefit your safety. Here are some things that you can do to help prevent yourself from becoming a victim of a violent crime:

• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas.
• Avoid situations that feel unsafe or uncomfortable.
• Trust your instincts.
• Do not hesitate to ask for help when you feel threatened or unsafe.

Understanding these habits, staying vigilant, and recognizing potential risks can help you avoid dangerous situations.

Crime Against Society

Crimes against society are offenses that harm society, rather than individual victims. Crime against society accounts for the remaining 26% of Group A offenses in North Dakota, according to data from the North Dakota Attorney General’s Office.

Crimes against society include:

• Drug/narcotic violations
• Drug equipment violations
• Weapon law violations
• Pornographic and obscene material offenses
• Gambling offenses
• Prostitution and related offenses

The most common crimes against society in North Dakota are drug/narcotic-related violations. These offenses typically involve the possession and distribution of illegal substances and drug paraphernalia. 

While these crimes may not always affect you directly, they are important to keep in mind because they have further-reaching consequences for the community. Drug-related crimes often open the door to other forms of crime, such as property crimes, domestic violence, or violent altercations.

The impact of drugs/narcotics goes far beyond legal consequences; it can contribute to homelessness, motor vehicle accidents, job loss, addiction, and much more.

It is important to educate ourselves and our families on the legal and moral consequences of drug use. Understanding the issue and proactively addressing it can help build and support communities across the state.

Where Does Crime Happen the Most?

Crime rates tend to be higher in urban areas, since most of North Dakota’s population resides in the larger cities. Over half of North Dakota’s population resides in Bismarck, Fargo, and Grand Forks, where crime rates are inevitably higher. While crime is more common in these larger cities, no area is completely risk-free; even small towns experience crime.

Notable Crime Rates in Cities in North Dakota:

(Per 100,000)

• Fargo: 3,895.9
• Mandan: 3,594.49
• Bismarck: 3,125.59
• Williston: 2,607.46
• Grand Forks: 2,555.16

These numbers prove that larger cities tend to experience more crime due to the greater number of people and opportunities. However, no area is completely free from crime.

What These Numbers Mean for You

Compared to other states like New Mexico, Colorado, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Alaska, North Dakota is relatively safe. Being proactive, informed, alert, and making wise decisions can help you and your community remain safe.

Local law enforcement agencies, including police departments and the criminal justice system, work hard to prevent and respond to crime. However, the responsibility of safety also falls on individuals and communities. Your individual awareness, knowledge, and action are necessary to maintain safety in our communities.

If you or someone you know has been injured as a result of an accident, like those caused by drunk drivers, The Advocates Injury Attorneys are here to provide the support, care, and guidance that you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.

By staying informed, practicing smart habits, and knowing your resources, you can play a significant role in keeping North Dakota a safe place to live.