North Dakota’s rolling prairies and majestic badlands create a tranquil backdrop for this family-friendly, safe and affordable state. Ranked the 15th Most Livable State in 2004 by the Morgan Quitno Press, it is consistently rated as one of the top safest states in the nation, creating a less stressful environment in its towns and communities. Most notably, the cities of Fargo and Bismarck ranked as the 1st and 2nd Least Stressful Cities in the Nation in 2004. As the state’s largest city, Fargo is a railway hub as well as a financial and medical center for the region. It also has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country and enjoys a thriving economy and job market. North Dakota is world renowned as an agricultural mega center and in recent years, manufacturing has also been on the rise. It is one of the most rural states in the nation, with farms covering 90% of the land and almost half the population living in rural areas. Affordable housing costs for homes and apartments, competitive and high-quality health care, a superior educational system and the best air quality in the country make this state a great place to live. Residents value the air, earth and water responsible for good crops, a clean environment and a healthy lifestyle, so that they can enjoy the outdoors during each of the four seasons.