The median household income in North Dakota is $77,871. Using the 15% of take-home pay guideline, the maximum affordable monthly car payment for a typical ND household is around $730.
At that income level, the typical North Dakota buyer can comfortably finance a $36,000 vehicle over 60 months without overextending. Stretching to 72 or 84 months reduces monthly payments but significantly increases total interest paid.
North Dakota has a state income tax of 1.95%–2.5%, which reduces take-home pay and effective car buying power.
The cost of living in North Dakota is 91 (national average = 100). Lower living costs in North Dakota free up more household cash flow for car payments and other goals.