Real.Good.

Real. Good. Communities

Northeast North Dakota is home to some of the kindest people you’ll meet. Our small-town lifestyle fosters a strong sense of connection, where neighbors look out for each other and take pride in their communities. From friendly greetings at the grocery store to waves on the road, our communities are built on relationships and support.

The counties of Nelson, Walsh and Pembina are made up of 31 incorporated cities and more than 100 unincorporated communities and rural townships, ranging in size from 13 in Conway to just over 4,100 in Grafton.

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A Sample of Our Real. Good. Communities

Grafton

Population: 4,161

The county seat of Walsh County, Grafton is the largest city in the tri-county area and is a regional hub for healthcare, education and commerce.

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Park River

Population: 1,556

Park River is located in Walsh County and is known for its historic downtown, golf course and Aggie athletic teams.

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Cavalier

Population: 1,360

Cavalier is home to a vibrant downtown, several annual events including the the Cavalier Motorcycle Ride-In and the Off The Charts Music Festival, family-centered healthcare and a wide array of recreational options. With nearby Icelandic State Park, nature’s playground is out your back door.

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Walhalla

Population: 910

Walhalla is tucked in the Pembina Hills and offers a rich blend of cultural heritage, small-town charm and outdoor recreation. Being just minutes from the Pembina Gorge, golf courses, Frost Fire Park, world-class wildlife and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, skiing, kayaking, trail riding and snowmobiling, you’ll love life immersed in nature’s beauty. 

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Lakota

Population: 655

Lakota is a community that thrives on lively events and strong community spirit and its residents take great pride in their town. Situated just off US Highway 2, if offers easy access to exceptional fishing, boating, and hunting.
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McVille

Population: 341

Located in Nelson County, McVille is known for its safe and well-kept neighborhoods, a great education system, excellent healthcare facilities, and recreational opportunities for all ages including golf, fishing, camping and even frisbee golf.

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Fordville

Population: 216

Community support is alive in Fordville, where you can have small-town fun whenever you’d like. Head a few miles southwest to Fordville Dam for boating, camping, fishing, and more!If you enjoy friendly people and pleasant atmosphere, Fordville is the place to grow!
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Minto

Population: 616

Minto is a tight-knit community where people come together to build a strong sense of community
spirit. With an impressive community center that hosts a variety of fun events and a city park – featuring new sports courts and recreational amenities – Minto is a beautiful place where neighbors quickly become friends!

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Drayton

Population: 818

Nestled between I-29 and the Red River, Drayton is an angler’s dream and home to a variety of high-quality fish. With a community-owned grocery store, many food and drink options, a curling club, golf course, gorgeous park, and American Crystal Sugar, Drayton offers you the “sweet” small-town life!

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Pembina

Population: 583

Pembina offers a unique small-town experience with a vibrant history in the fur trading era. Today it is a bustling port of entry from Canada. If you are seeking the best of both worlds – a peaceful lifestyle with ample outdoor recreation opportunities plus easy access to big city amenities – Pembina is an ideal setting with convenient access to I-29, halfway between Grand Forks and Winnipeg.

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Michigan

Population: 278

Michigan is a welcoming and charming town where you’ll find beautiful scenery, wide-open spaces, and the friendliest of faces! Enjoy a cup of coffee with neighbors, catch amazing sunrises and sunsets, and enjoy great golfing on the hometown course!

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Tolna

Population: 139

With excellent fishing for walleye and pike just outside of town, Tolna provides exceptional outdoor recreational opportunities and a friendly small-town vibe! If you seek safety, affordability, and a peaceful lifestyle away from the hustle, Tolna is the place to be!

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Edinburg

Population: 215

Brimming with community pride, Edinburg is a closely connected town where neighbors still look out for each other, and community isn’t just a word – it’s a way of life. Whether at a local event, the local café, grocery store, or just chatting with a neighbor, you’ll quickly realize that people here are welcoming, hardworking, and always willing to lend a hand. If you are searching for a place where life is beautiful, Edinburg is it!

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Hoople

Population: 277

Hoople, proudly known as “The Potato Capital of North Dakota” or affectionately called “Tater Town USA,” is a vibrant and youthful community with a median age of 26.5, making it an ideal place for families. The town recently welcomed a new Community Center in 2025, perfect for hosting wedding receptions, parties, and other gatherings. Additionally, the city park features a pool, providing a fun spot for kids to enjoy during the summer months.

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Explore communities by location

NE North Dakota is close to Winnipeg, Fargo and Grand Forks
Testimonial person photo

“Originally from Alaska, I also lived on the east coast before moving to the Midwest. What I adore about living in Northeast North Dakota are the stunning wide-open spaces, the community spirit filled with generosity and pride, and watching my daughter grow up in a safe, welcoming community with a close-knit group of friends. I love feeling at home in my community, even though I’m not originally from here. You will be amazed at how many people wave at you as you pass by on roads and highways in our rural areas. Waving is our way of saying “hello friend” and we hope it makes your day!”

Lule Naas

McVille, ND

“Originally from Alaska, I also lived on the east coast before moving to the Midwest. What I adore about living in Northeast North Dakota are the stunning wide-open spaces, the community spirit filled with generosity and pride, and watching my daughter grow up in a safe, welcoming community with a close-knit group of friends. I love feeling at home in my community, even though I’m not originally from here. You will be amazed at how many people wave at you as you pass by on roads and highways in our rural areas. Waving is our way of saying “hello friend” and we hope it makes your day!”

Lule Naas

McVille, ND

Testimonial person photo

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