About West Fargo

West Fargo has a warm, friendly, small town atmosphere, complemented by metropolitan area advantages.With an estimated population of more than 38,000, West Fargo is truly “a city on the grow” with one of the fastest growing communities in North Dakota.

Throughout this phenomenal growth, West Fargo continues to offer an excellent student-oriented school district, a park district with world-class facilities, and a variety of housing options to meet the needs of any resident. Boasting opportunities for both families and businesses, West Fargo combines the benefits of small-town living with the resources and amenities of a large metropolitan city. 

Beginnings

In 1917, Equity Cooperative Packing Company began construction of its plant in what was called West Fargo. In 1925, Armour and Company bought out the plant and housing for employees, which had been built north of the highway. Residents living there were asked to move from their homes, with many relocating south of the highway to form their own village.

West Fargo City Government

If you are not familiar with how your local government operates or need a quick reference, this section will provide you with information regarding the City of West Fargo services and amenities.

Commission & Boards

West Fargo is governed by a City Commission along with a number of Boards and Committees.  Community members are encouraged to attend and have input in all these public meetings.

Awards and Honors

2020

USA Today: West Fargo named #11 best city to live in the U.S.

24/7 Wall St. created a weighted index of over two dozen measures from the U.S. Census Bureau, the FBI, and other sources to identify the best city to live in among places with at least 8,000 residents.

2019

MoneyRates.com: North Dakota is the top state for millennials

Ranks first among all states for young adults, according to a recent study. The study focuses on where 20- to 24-year-olds have the best shot at thriving in today’s economy.

Main Street Excellence Award

City of West Fargo selected by Governor Doug Burgum and Lt. Governor Brent Sanford during the 2019 Main Street Summit in recognition of the downtown revitalization efforts that started in 2016 and have transformed Sheyenne Street from Main to Seventh Avenues W.

Special Olympics North Dakota

West Fargo High School named the 2019 Outstanding School for their outstanding commitment and support.

U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbon School

West Fargo Schools’ Harwood Elementary named a National Blue Ribbon School for 2019 for excellence.

North Dakota Association of Career & Technical Education New Teacher of the Year

West Fargo High School health science teacher Traci Tarnasky was named the New Teacher of the Year in Health Science Education Award.

National Math & Science Initiative Teacher of the Month

Sheyenne High School science teacher Shaina Eagleson was named the Teacher of the Month.

2016

MSN.com Amazing Library

The West Fargo Public Library was named North Dakota’s Amazing Library.

2015

The Safewise Report Safest City

West Fargo was named one of the North Dakota’s five safest cities based on FBI Crime Report data to rank the safest cities.

2014

North Dakota League of Cities Employee of the Year

City Administrator Jim Brownlee was named Outstanding Employee of the Year.

North Dakota Librarian of the Year

Library Director Sandra Hannahs named North Dakota Librarian of the Year

2013

North Dakota League of Cities City of the Year

West Fargo was named City of Year by the North Dakota League of Cities.

American Public Works Association North Dakota Chapter Project of the Year

City of West Fargo received Project of the Year for storm sewer improvement district numbers 4044, 4046 and 4047.

2011

Playful City USA by KaBOOM!

West Fargo was recognized for championing efforts to make play a priority through establishing policy initiatives, infrastructure investments and innovative programming.