Safe Communities, Strong Economy Lands Jamestown & North Dakota in Top Spots
April 3, 2026
Safewise has named Jamestown as the #1 safest city in North Dakota!
A new report from Site Selector Magazine also found that North Dakota, long overlooked as a great place to live and work, has emerged as a top contender. It’s continuing to appeal to residents and businesses looking for an alternative to high crime rates and high cost of living associated with major metropolitan areas.
“North Dakota continues to see steady growth and attract new residents as one of the best places to live, work and raise a family,” Governor Kelly Armstrong was quoted in the Site Selection Magazine article, having recently announced that the state’s population, which has steadily risen over the past four years, is now nearing 800,000. “From historic property tax relief and reform to phone-free schools and robust economic development, our state made significant progress this past year to improve the quality of life for our citizens, which will always be our top priority.”
Jamestown Named #1 Safest City in North Dakota
In the Safeway report, Jamestown outranked twelve other cities throughout the state, including Valley City, West Fargo, Minot, Dickinson and Bismarck, thanks to a steady decline in property crime rates over the past four years. “This consistency is extremely rare among all of America's safest cities,” stated the report.
Safewise also found that only one third of North Dakota respondents in North Dakota indicated any worry about their overall safety, securing its spot as the third least-concerned state in the country for two consecutive years.
The advantage of living in Jamestown, North Dakota
Norman Rockwell could have painted curly-topped boys fishing along the banks of the James River that runs through Jamestown.
Jamestown is nestled between two rivers, the James River and the Pipestem River, both of which provide recreational opportunities in a beautiful setting.
Here you’ll find clean air, safe streets and short commutes. You can take time for fitness at the Two Rivers Activity Center, at one of many local athletic clubs, or on the outdoor walking, biking, and hiking trails in and around town.
You can also own and operate a thriving business, realize job stability in the same community you own your dream home, enjoy quiet neighborhood living, and watch your children grow.

Here, the American Dream is tangible with the qualities of small town living plus exceptional opportunities to achieve personal and professional success.
Businesses Thrive in Jamestown, North Dakota
Jamestown/Stutsman County Development Corporation (JSDC) has a multimillion-dollar economic development program available to assist with expanding or relocating business. We can provide guidance on any of the following:
- Site Selection
- Industry & Labor Data
- Local, State & Federal Resources
- Demographics
- Various Incentive Programs
For more detailed information about doing business in Jamestown / Stutsman County, please contact us at 701-252-6861 or email us here.
