From a person who hasn't lived in ND for 14 years, I view Fargo and GF about the same. Same weather, same topography, same work ethic, etc. Sure Fargo is bigger, but it isn't substantial enough to make a difference. We are not talking about one city being 600,000 like a Winnipeg and the other 50,000. GF's MSA is around 100,000. Fargo's MSA is about 200,000. Both cities have their pros and cons.
Bismarck is different and I would agree, is a desirable location to live.