While at lunch last week, I overheard a group of people talking about Williston, and how they hated everything about it.

There's nothing to do. If I could, I would move back home tomorrow. Why would anyone want to live up here? I thought the same thing. Why would anyone want to live here... let alone want to move here?

Let's drill down on why Williston is such a 'horrible' place.

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1. Williston, North Dakota - Job Market

We are lucky to have a strong job market. Williston is known for its thriving oil and gas industry, which has created a high demand for workers in various fields. I get the fact that the cost of living is a bit higher, but with an average household income of around $100,000, items are still affordable.

WEDC/Facebook
WEDC/Facebook
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Williston Housing

2. Williston, North Dakota - Housing

Williston offers fairly affordable housing. Compared to other states, the cost of living in Williston is relatively low compared to other cities, and you can find a variety of housing options at affordable prices.

Blacktail Dam/Facebook
Blacktail Dam/Facebook
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Blacktail Dam

3. Williston, North Dakota - Things to do

There are a bunch of outdoor recreation options! Williston is located near several state parks, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Plus, the views in our region never get old. There is always something you can do outside in our region.

First Lutheran Church - Williston ND/Facebook
First Lutheran Church - Williston ND/Facebook
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Community

4. Williston, North Dakota - The People

Williston is known to be an extremely friendly community. The people of Williston are known for their welcoming and friendly nature, making it easy to connect with others and feel at home. Whether attending a lutefisk dinner, a meatball dinner, or a Williston basketball game, you won't meet nicer people anywhere.

googlemaps.com
googlemaps.com
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Williston Schools

5. Williston, North Dakota - Schools

Have you heard of the Coyotes or the Crusaders? Williston has two excellent schools, including public, private, and charter options, providing high-quality education for our children. You won't find better teachers. They genuinely do the best for our kids...not just in Williston, but throughout the Mon-Dak Region. Oh, and the school's fanbase always supports their team through thick and thin.

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6. Williston, North Dakota - MORE Things to do

We live in a fairly rural area, but that doesn't mean we don't have any cultural opportunities up here. Williston has a rich history and culture, with several museums, galleries, and cultural events throughout the year. There are many talented people just waiting to perform for you.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g60819-d5267394-Reviews-Williston_Brewing_Company-Williston_North_Dakota.html
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g60819-d5267394-Reviews-Williston_Brewing_Company-Williston_North_Dakota.html
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Williston Brewing Company

7. Williston, North Dakota - Where to Eat

For years, Williston was a bit limited when it came to food choices. As the years have gone by, it's getting pretty diverse with many more dining options. Whether you're looking for traditional American fare or even some international treats, Williston has a variety of restaurants to satisfy any craving. Throw in the microbrews, and now we have a party!

Community Facebook Pages
Community Facebook Pages
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Events/Festivals

8. Williston, North Dakota - Community

It seems as the years pass, there is always something more to do up here. There is a strong community spirit here that you can feel every day. Williston has always had that, with several community events and festivals throughout the year.

Local Facebook Pages
Local Facebook Pages
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Volunteer Groups

9. Williston, North Dakota - Local Pride

We do like to give back. The amount of time and effort residents give will leave you amazed. For a city that gives so much, it's easy for us to step up and try to make things just a bit better. If you have some time, there are groups looking for help. If you can give a little, or a lot, any time you can give is greatly appreciated. You can see the pride on our faces when we talk about all the things our volunteers have done.

The City Of Williston/Submitted Photo
The City Of Williston/Submitted Photo
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City of Williston

Opportunities for growth are everywhere! Williston is still a growing city, with several new developments and businesses opening up each year, providing opportunities for career growth and personal development. We have relied on cattle, farming, and oil forever. Now, things are diversifying more and more. Carbon capture, cryptocurrency, pipelines, and more are still the talk of the town. There is plenty more to come!

There are plenty of reasons not to move to Williston...but from where I was sitting at lunch that day, I couldn't think of a single one. So I secretly bought the fellas wondering who would move here their lunch, and at least gave them one reason to consider it!

Williston's Guns V Hoses Through the Decades

From the start of their rivalry in the summer of 1969 to today, this charity softball game between Williston's police and fire departments is an annual crowd-pleaser!

The 8 Grossest Foods People Eat In North Dakota