Golden Valley County, North Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Golden Valley County is located in North Dakota with a total population of 1,679. It is the 50th most populous county out of 53 in North Dakota. The county encompasses 4 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Golden Valley County is 45.7 years. This is 28% higher than the state median of 35.7 years. 10.9% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Golden Valley County is $76,528. This is about average than the state median of $75,949. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 3% lower. The poverty rate stands at 18.0%. This is 70% higher than the state poverty rate of 10.6%. The unemployment rate is 4.6%. This is 61% higher than the state rate of 2.8%. The median home value is $119,200. Housing costs are 51% lower than the state median of $241,100. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.6x, Golden Valley County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 75.1% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 18% higher than the state average of 63.4%.

Race & Ethnicity

Golden Valley County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 90.1% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 1.6%. The Black or African American population (0.1%) is well below the state average of 3.2%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.6%) is well below the state average of 4.5%. The Asian population (0.5%) is well below the state average of 1.5%.

Education

18.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is among the lowest rates in the state, which may correlate with employment and income patterns. This is 44% lower than the state rate of 32.3%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 96.5%.