Reviews & Comments
Bismarck, ND
A Self Centered City That's Not For Me -
3/25/2022I have lived in many places throughout the U.S. I came here with my job and can't wait to leave. This city may be right for some people, but it's definitely not for me.
I'll begin with some pros ..
The economy here is relatively good and most people who want a job can find a job. Wages tend to be a bit higher than other places for similar work. It can be an affordable place if you don't need to have the newest and best. Housing is more than some Midwest and South areas but cheaper than the coasts or mountain west. Rent is reasonable and many rentals cover most utilities, including heat. State income taxes are also low. Crime is not bad, but does seem to be getting worse than it used to be.
I also am going to call the weather a pro. Yes, it does get cold at times. We do get windy days and snow. But overall, we have a lot of dry and sunny days. You can dress for the cold and be just fine. The snow is usually powdery and lacking moisture. It is not windy every day. Severe weather is minimal. Summers can get hot, over 100, but you don't have oppressive humidity.
Shopping and dining is more than adequate. Although the food is rather bland and prices for groceries and at restaurants tend to be high.
Now for the cons.
Most of the people here are not pleasant. I have never encountered such self centered, self righteous, and self important people as I have here. Everybody thinks they're right about everything. Facts don't matter. It's how they feel or desire things to be that matter. I am used to living in conservative areas, but this place takes it to the extreme. There is a very negative vibe that people here constantly give off. I have never lived anywhere where people so openly bring up politics. They assume everyone agrees with them and will bully those who don't. They are obsessed that Trump lost. If something doesn't go their way, they have to blame someone on the left. They, themselves, could never be wrong. They are very money hungry. The pandemic showed the true ignorance and selfishness of the people here. I work with 150 people, and maybe 20% are vaccinated. We were required to wear masks, but most refused to wear them correctly and complained every day. Yet almost everyone except a handful of us ended up getting Covid and were constantly getting exposed, leaving those who took it seriously to pick up their workload.
People are also very racist, stereotyping entire groups like native Americans, African Americans, and immigrants as bad people or thieves. Whites, of which I am one, definitely enjoy privilege here.
People here think very highly of themselves. They see themselves as tough, special, and always right. If not outwardly boasting, you'll find a lot of humblebragging. If someone does do something nice or extra, rest assured they will be padding themselves on the back and making sure someone knows.
Customer service here truly sucks. Most employees act inconvenienced or bothered by customers. Being greeted or thanked is rare. Sometimes they try to act superior and treat customers like they think they're stupid. I have witnessed this countless times, even by my coworkers.
Because this area has brought in so many people from other regions, there isn't a strong sense of community. Many move here with no family or friends already here. Don't expect the natives to invite you to many things. They likely have little interest in knowing anything about you beyond how you might affect them.
The traffic here is also bad. The city streets were not designed for the amount of traffic they carry due to the population growth. And the drivers here are the worst I have ever seen. They speed, run red lights, and most don't yield for pedestrians. No one seems to face any consequences. It's all part the "me first" mentality that thrives here. The bus service is limited and time consuming, but buses usually are on time and not crowded. Caring about the environment is definitely not a priority here.
The city has some trails, a zoo, occasional events, a few museums, and minor league sports. But it all gets boring rather quickly. You can only do the same things so many times. And since there is a lack of entertainment, expect crowds at the things that are available. There are a lot of families with kids here. It feels impossible to find a quiet or private spot.
Overall, Bismarck is simply not for me. Some may love it. I don't desire an extremely liberal place. Just one where people actually respect, care, and think about people other than themselves.