Updated 2026 · Based on median market data for Bismarck, ND
The median monthly rent in Bismarck, ND is $1,220, translating to $14,640 in annual gross rental income per unit. The rent-to-price ratio is 0.46% — well below the 1% rule, making pure cash flow investing challenging at median prices.
Renters in Bismarck spend approximately 23% of the local median household income ($62,400) on rent. This is well below the 30% threshold, suggesting significant headroom for rent increases. Tenants can afford to pay more, which is bullish for landlords.
The vacancy rate in Bismarck is 5%. This is a healthy vacancy rate that indicates balanced supply and demand. You should be able to find quality tenants without extended vacancies, though expect normal turnover periods of 2-4 weeks between tenants. Population growth of 1% annually provides stable demand.
Bismarck's GRM (price divided by annual rent) is 18.1x. A GRM above 16x means the property is expensive relative to its income. Investors here are typically betting on appreciation rather than current cash flow. For comparison, the national average GRM for investment-grade rentals is approximately 13-15x.
At the median rent of $1,220/mo, a single-family rental in Bismarck generates approximately $14,640 in gross annual income. After accounting for 5% vacancy ($732 lost), property taxes of $2,544, insurance (~$1,060), and maintenance (~$1,060), the estimated NOI is $9,244 per year, or $770/mo.