Yes, African Americans Live in North Dakota—Population Growing

African American Population in North Dakota

According to the 2020 U.S. Census, 15,195 residents identified as Black or African American alone or in combination—about 1.9% of the state's 779,094 total population.

Growth Trend

• 2010 Census: ~7,500 (1.2%)
• 2020 Census: ~15,200 (1.9%)
• Increase: >100% over the decade

Drivers of Growth

• Oil boom (Bakken): Attracted workers from across the U.S. (2008–2015 peak).
• Military: Minot AFB & Grand Forks AFB bring diverse service members & families.
• University of North Dakota (Grand Forks) & NDSU (Fargo): International & out-of-state students.
• Healthcare & Tech: Sanford, Altru, and growing remote-work hubs.
• Refugee resettlement: Lutheran Social Services places African refugees (Somali, Sudanese, Congolese) in Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks.

Geographic Concentration

Over 70% live in the four largest metros: Fargo–Moorhead, Bismarck–Mandan, Grand Forks, Minot. Rural counties remain <1% Black.