Will It Be Worth It? The Impact of the Oil Boom on Williston, North Dakota

• In Event: 546 - Section on Sociology of Population Roundtable Session (one-hour).
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 05. Neighborhoods, Migration, and Health

Abstract

With unemployment registering less than one percent in western North Dakota, and the rest of the country suffering the lingering effects of the Great Recession, job seekers have descended from every state in search of high-paying oilfield jobs. This study briefly examines the social costs incurred by the residents of Williston, North Dakota, the epicenter of a current oil boom. In addition to examining the costs of the boom through the eyes of long-term residents, the overall perception of the benefits were also addressed. The central question posed to these residents was whether or not life will eventually be better in Williston despite the staggering social costs currently being paid.

Author

• Timothy D. Pippert, Augsburg College