Midwest Magazine North Dakota’s Best Small Town 2026

Every year, Midwest Magazine puts together a list of the best small towns in midwestern states. You may notice some of them you've never heard of, and others seem like the obvious pick.

The magazine/online publication just released its "The Best Small Towns in the Midwest" for 2026. You might be surprised at which small towns made the list, which didn't, and which were crowned for North Dakota. Let's take a look at some of the top towns in other states.

Kansas - Lindsborg

This small town has a lot of Swedish influence, festivals, and cozy vibes. People throughout the state say it has a truly unique charm.

Iowa - Decorah

This is known as a college town (Luther College), and it's also famous for its live webcam feed of resident eagles.

(Also Read: North Dakota's Bighorn Sheep Populations Reaches New Heights)

Michigan - Leland

Leland is also known as Fishtown. Picture tugboats, smokehouses, and dockside shanties. This town has a ton of 19th-century charm.

South Dakota - Hot Springs

This town welcomes people into the Black Hills. Residents rave about the Moccasin Natural Mineral Spa, The Mammoth Site, and so many other cool and unique features.

Minnesota - Stillwater

St. Croix River bluffs, mansions, and home of the Snow Sculpting Championship -it's no mystery why this small town was named the best.

North Dakota's Top Small Town 2026

So, which small town in North Dakota takes the top spot?

I'm sure it's no surprise to you that Medora is the top small town in our state. With the Theodore Roosevelt State Park, the musical,  the Bully Pulpit, and the Presidential Library, there's a lot to love about Medora.