I wish to relocate back to ND (Fargo, Bismarck: skyscraper, apts)

[run68bird]

I have been away for about 17 years, but visit my family about once a year. I may have the opporunity to transfer into another division of my company to Jamestown. I grew up in a town outside of Bismarck about 800 people. I visit my family there at least once a year and every year I want to move back. This may be the opportunity to move back there. I have lived in western Washington for 16 years and am tired of it. I have no regret leaving North Dakota as there were no job opportunities at the time. The question I have is what would be considered a good wage in Jamestown? I know the housing prices are cheap compaired to where I live (the current CMA on my home is 350000). I was born in Valley City before my family moved by Bismarck and this was a retirement community is Jamestown the same? I am in my 30's and see the average age there is 38, is this a true statement? How is the nightlife there?

[ebitdadada]

I've never lived in Jamestown but in all honesty, I really doubt you're going to find many 30 somethings and / or nightlife outside the big 3 ND towns. On the other hand, ND's economy is booming right now so you may be able to get a job in Bis, Fargo, or GF. GF is getting its first skyscraper / tall building, some sort of hotel from Canada. Bismarck is alledgedly getting the same thing only with two towers and a few more stories. Energy and alot of good press on being a good place to live is driving Bismarck's economy and, if I understand correctly, the strong Canadian dollar is helping GF. Also Fargo recently passed the national average for per-capita income, Bismarck may have also recently done the same or will very soon if current trends continue.

[btown69]

I am in the same boat as Run68Bird, although I'm a lot closer and less-removed from good ol' ND. With the positive press that Fargo and Bismarck have received of late, I am proud to be a North Dakotan, but I've been ashamed since I moved to the Minneapolis area about a year ago. Granted, the pay is better here, but the cost of living is higher too. North Dakota, especially in the F-M, GF, Bis-Man and Minot areas is a great place to live, but don't expect too much for a night life if you're not a college student. However, where there is a lack, there is opportunity. North Dakota is a gold mine, not only for commodities and whatnot, but also for anyone who would be interested in opening a business. Fargo is far overdue for a good-quality post-college night club, and one in Bismarck or GF could probably do well also. I'm hoping to relocate back to Fargo within the next 10-15 years myself.

[so-cal-colleen]

From what we saw of Valley City and Jamestown, there was little to no night life. We had to get propane for our RV in the middle of the night and every place was flat out "closed up" by 9:00. Even the truck stop that was supposed to have someone available until 10, had left early.
Stores and restaurants were the same.
If the average age is "38", that is our own age and we're on the way there. According to the local townspeople, they are losing a small percentage of the population every year because the children are moving away to larger cities.
Hope you decide to come back!

[Jamestownhodag]

Jamestown is a nice place. I moved from Minneapolis 17 years ago. The people are great here, friendly, helpful, do almost anything for you. Minneapolis - no one talks to you, your neighbors (in apts) not friendly. My car broken into twice. Here in Jamestown, you worry about nothing. Tourism is a number one draw here, and our college. Your right night time is not big like in the "Cities", but we have our bars and lounges for you night owls. Next time your in our city stop in stay a night and talk to the folks and see why I stayed here.

[Corbay]

Run,
Come to Jamestown!

I assume you have a chance to come to work here for Goodrich.

I am a lifelong resident (except for a short stint in Vegas). I would be more than happy to help you out with any questions you might have.


I am very knowledgeable about our local housing and economy.

One other thing you might check is a small group I am part of here in Jamestown; Jamestown After 5 - Home.

FYI, I moved my current home from V.C. (sat next to the walk bridge) over here to Jamestown. I like V.C. it is a nice town. Spent plenty of time there over the years.