The oil boom taking place about 100 miles west of the city has brought an influx of energy workers, which has put a strain on housing. But Bismarck is trying to stay ahead of the demand by expediting the permit process and allowing builders to construct homes more quickly.
That's helped keep housing prices from skyrocketing like they have closer to the oil action. Yet, Bismarck is close enough to attract some of the high-paying oil services jobs, including engineering and leasing services. As a result, unemployment is now under 3%. "We're in the sweet spot," said Mayor John Warford.
See complete data and interactive map for Bismarck
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