While North Dakota does have its bigger cities, a lot of the state's residents are small town born and raised. Growing up in a tight-knit community in a small town is actually pretty awesome - and here are 10 reasons why.

1. You make friends for life.

Small town friends usually first meet in kindergarten and stay friends all through elementary, middle, and high school, and for many years after that.

2. You are truly part of a community.

It's not uncommon for everyone in a small town here to know each other's names, and know at least a few of your relatives based off your last name alone. It's always tight-knit and everyone is looking out for one another - and that's awesome.

3. Small town parades and festivals are the BEST.

Annual festivals and parades usually get a huge turn out consisting of the entire town. Country fairs are a big deal, too, of course. Who could forget those? It's a time when the whole community comes together for some fun!

4. You know you are in a safe place.

In some small towns, crime rates are nearly nonexistent. And even if something bad does happen, the local cops probably know your family and would be there to help you out right away. Small towns are definitely one of the best places to grow up for this reason.

5. You know someone will always be there to help you out.

Whether it's to jump your car or help you out with shoveling snow when you don't have a snow blower and they do - someone will always be there to lend a helping hand in a small town.

6. Supporting local businesses is the way of life.

Most all the businesses in a small town are family owned and operated, save for maybe one or two chains. The store owners will start to recognize you after a while and know things like your regular order so you don't even have to ask.

7. You never have to worry about traffic.

Except for, of course, when a train comes through town and backs everyone up by the grain elevator. Other than that, it's usually smooth sailing. Plus, there is the assurance that most everyone in a small town is a pretty good driver. City drivers can be crazy sometimes, I tell ya.

8. You learn to make the most out of everything.

Small town life certainly isn't a life of fast and easy convenience like some other places. The nearest mall is probably miles away and the big venues are, too. But it doesn't bother you - you can make your own fun in your hometown, or you can make a joyful trip out of heading into the nearest city.

9. High school football games are a BIG deal.

You can bet most of the town will show up to support their local team, especially if it's the big game against the rival team in the nearest town.

10. You'll always be welcomed back.

Your hometown is your town for life - even if you moved far away and lived somewhere else for years. Just don't be surprised if everyone already knows what you've been up to while you were away because they've been chatting with your relatives in town.

What do you love about living in a small town in North Dakota?