The median household income in North Dakota is $68,000. On the national average student loan balance of $37,650, a standard 10-year repayment plan at 6.54% costs $428/month — representing 7.6% of gross median income. Financial planners typically recommend keeping student loan payments below 10% of gross income.
North Dakota's cost of living is near the national average (index: 93). Standard repayment plans are manageable for most borrowers earning at or above the state median income.
North Dakota has a state income tax of 0%–2.5%. Federal student loan interest is deductible up to $2,500/year if your MAGI is below $85,000, reducing your effective borrowing cost. Check whether North Dakota mirrors the federal deduction for state return purposes.