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River Drive, Fargo,ND

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If you're considering a move to Fargo, ND, the River Drive neighborhood in the southeast part of the city offers a wonderful blend of suburban comfort and natural beauty. Known for its scenic views along the Red River, River Drive is a favorite among families and professionals alike. The area boasts a peaceful atmosphere with plenty of green space, making it perfect for those who appreciate outdoor activities like jogging, biking, or simply enjoying a quiet walk along the riverbanks. Residents often take advantage of the nearby parks, such as Lindenwood Park, which provides playgrounds, picnic spots, and open fields for community events and weekend fun.

One of the standout features of River Drive is its strong sense of community and accessibility to local amenities. You'll find a variety of dining options, cozy coffee shops, and boutique stores that give the neighborhood a charming, small-town feel while still being close to city conveniences. For those who enjoy cultural experiences, the area is not far from the Fargo Theatre and the Plains Art Museum, both located just a short drive northwest, offering a taste of Fargo’s vibrant arts scene. Additionally, River Drive’s proximity to major shopping centers and grocery stores makes daily errands quick and easy, contributing to the neighborhood’s appeal for busy families and young professionals.

Despite its peaceful setting, River Drive is conveniently close to Downtown Fargo, typically just a 10 to 15-minute drive away. This means residents can enjoy the tranquility of suburban life without sacrificing access to the bustling heart of the city. Whether you’re heading downtown for work, dining, or entertainment, the commute is straightforward and stress-free. Overall, River Drive provides a balanced lifestyle that combines natural beauty, community warmth, and urban convenience—making it a fantastic choice for anyone relocating to Fargo looking for a welcoming and well-rounded neighborhood.

Community Snapshot

Population 1,242
Density (People/sqml.) 1,565
Median Age 51.4
Married Couples
61%
61% of the population of River Drive aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
27%
27% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

In River Drive, 27% of residents aged 16 and older are married, which is notably higher than the national average. This could point to a more settled, community-driven neighborhood where long-term residents and homeowners are common. It’s the kind of place where stability, and a close-knit atmosphere make it especially appealing to families and couples looking to put down roots.

With only 27% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

River Drive neighborhood age breakdown chart

River Drive demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 1,242 residents, River Drive is notably smaller than many other Fargo neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

With a lower than average population density of 1,565 people per square mile, River Drive offers a more open and spacious environment compared to many other Fargo neighborhoods. This often means quieter streets, less congestion, and a relaxed atmosphere — all while still providing access to the amenities and conveniences of city living.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 51, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

Crime in River Drive

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Types of Crime

River Drive neighborhood age breakdown chart

River Drive Crime Map

The River Drive crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing

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Home Price $352,733
Median Rent $840
People/Household 2.4

Home Price Breakdown

River Drive neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 16% Own 84%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 55% After 2010 45%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing prices can reveal a lot about the balance and overall appeal of a neighborhood. In River Drive, the median home price is about $352,733, which is on par with many comparable areas. This average pricing reflects a stable, affordable housing market and makes the neighborhood an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers seeking both value and long-term potential. Examining how home prices and appreciation rates in River Drive have shifted over time can reveal important clues about the neighborhood’s future value. These trends help potential buyers and investors understand market momentum and determine whether the area is likely to deliver strong returns over the long term.

The median rent is around $840, which is on par with many comparable neighborhoods. This balanced pricing offers a mix of affordability and value, making it a practical choice for a wide range of renters.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Caribou Coffee
Coffee Shop
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Starbucks
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

Bluestem Amphitheater
Theatre Arts
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Theatre Arts
Theatre Arts
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Food & Drink

Royal Liquors
Alcohol
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Woody's
Bar
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Groceries

Hornbacher's Foods
Grocery Store
min.
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Breadsmith
Bakery
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Parks

Playground
Playground
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Playground
Playground
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Shops

Remote Control Hobbies
Toys
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Casey's General Store
Convenience Store
min.
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

Marriott
Bus Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Essentia Health-Fargo
Hospital
min.
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Essentia South University Clinic
Clinic
min.
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Health Care

Dentist
Dentist
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Dentist
Dentist
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Safety

Southside Station
Fire Station
min.
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FM Ambulance Service
Ambulance Station
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
South High School
1840 15Th Ave S, Fargo, ND
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Oak Grove Lutheran Elementary School
2720 32Nd Ave S, Fargo, ND
Elementary School PK - 5 School Score
Red River Alc - Barnesville 146
2777 34Th St S, Moorhead, MN
High School 7 - 12 School Score
Eagles Elementary School
3502 University Dr, Fargo, ND
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Ed Clapp Elementary School
3131 S 28Th St, Fargo, ND
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Woodrow Wilson Alternative High School
1305 9Th Ave S, Fargo, ND
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Rralc: Dgf Secondary 2164
2777 34Th St S, Moorhead, MN
High School 7 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

Education is a key factor in understanding the character and opportunities within a community like River Drive. School ratings here reflect important indicators such as academic performance, graduation outcomes, and standardized testing, while NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores offer a valuable national comparison to gauge how local schools measure up. Looking at the overall education level of residents in River Drive can also provide meaningful insight into the neighborhood’s focus on learning and long-term growth, helping families choose a community that aligns with their educational goals.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $61,383
Household Income $115,481
Unemployment 3.3%

Income Breakdown

River Drive Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In River Drive, median household incomes average $115,481, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The employment landscape offers valuable insight into the stability and economic health of a neighborhood. In River Drive, the unemployment rate sits at around 3%, which is about average compared to many other areas. This balanced rate reflects a steady local economy and a reliable foundation for residents and businesses alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the highlights?

River Drive in Fargo offers picturesque views along the Red River, with the scenic Red River Greenway providing excellent trails for walking, biking, and running. The neighborhood also boasts proximity to Lindenwood Park, a popular spot featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and river access. Residents enjoy easy access to local eateries and shops along 25th Street, one of Fargo’s vibrant commercial corridors.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

Yes, River Drive hosts several community events annually, including the popular Fargo Marathon, which routes through parts of the neighborhood. Seasonal events at Lindenwood Park, such as summer concerts and outdoor movie nights, foster a strong sense of community. Additionally, nearby downtown Fargo’s events, like the Fargo Film Festival and the Downtown Farmers Market, are easily accessible to River Drive residents.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

River Drive is conveniently located near major roadways such as Interstate 29, providing easy access for commuters traveling north or south. Additionally, the neighborhood is served by MATBUS, Fargo’s public transit system, with multiple bus routes that connect River Drive to downtown Fargo and other parts of the city, making public transportation a viable option for residents.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

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