Moving To South Dakota

A complete guide of the state from healthcare to diversity

Should you move to South Dakota?

South Dakota, the Mount Rushmore State, is a place of expansive prairies, rugged Badlands, and a rich Native American heritage. Known for its outdoor adventure opportunities, friendly communities, and a booming agricultural industry, South Dakota offers a calm, nature-focused lifestyle.

South Dakota’s economy is predominantly driven by agriculture, but sectors like healthcare and financial services are growing rapidly. Its largest city, Sioux Falls, is a hub of commerce and healthcare, while Rapid City serves as the gateway to Black Hills outdoor adventures.

Living in South Dakota provides a variety of experiences. From exploring the iconic Mount Rushmore and the stunning Badlands National Park to immersing in the vibrant cultural scene of its cities, South Dakota presents a unique blend of rural charm and urban convenience. Education is highly valued, with good public schools and notable universities like the University of South Dakota and South Dakota State University.

If you’re looking for a state that offers a relaxed lifestyle, a connection with nature, and a stable economy, South Dakota could be your perfect destination. Just be prepared for frigid winters and the occasional glimpse of bison crossing the road!

State Capital

Pierre

Area Code(s)

605

Time Zone

Central Time Zone, Mountain Time Zone

Land Area (sq mi)

75,810

State Bird

Ring-necked pheasant

Motto

Under God the people rule

State Flag

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Who Lives in South Dakota?

Discover more about the people who make up the State

Total Population

National Avg 6,652,315

Population Density

12 per sq mi

National Avg 206.5 persons/square mile

How does South Dakota compare?

D
Diversity Grade
White alone
80.7%
Black or African American
2.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
8.5%
Asian
1.8%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Hispanic or Latino
4.9%

Foreign Born Persons

3.8%

Veterans

54350

Under 5 years
6.4%
Under 18 years
24.1%
Over 65 years
18%

South Dakota Climate

How’s the weather?

How Does South Dakota Compare?

#25
in Sunny Days
#41
in Annual Rainfall
#26
in Daytime Humidity

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Healthcare in South Dakota

How are the hospitals and care?

Major Hospitals

57

Residents Per Bed

300

Residents Per Physician

435.9

How Does South Dakota Compare?

#29
in Healthcare
#41
in Available Beds
#45
in Doctors Per Resident

South Dakota Metropolitans

South Dakota

Sioux Falls

South Dakota

Rapid City

South Dakota Cost of Living

How Does South Dakota Compare?

21
in Cost of Living
25
in Minimum Wage
1
in Living Wage

Don't Forget!

Auto insurance costs change from city to neighborhood. Through Insurify, you can receive personalized quotes from top insurers in 5 minutes or less.

Renting? Renter’s insurance protects you, your guests, and your things. And Lemonade offers renters insurance plans for as low as $5 per month.

South Dakota State Taxes

Housing in South Dakota

Buying or renting? Here’s more about real estate in the zip code.

Total Households

345,779

Own vs. Rent

Own 68.4%
Rent 31.6%

Connect with a local South Dakota REALTOR®

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Median Home Value

239,500

National $440,300

Median Rent

$809

National $1,702

Average Homeownership cost

$521

Taxes, Insurance, Utilities, HOA (no mortgage)

Persons Per Household

2.46

Moving advice

Increase your odds of a quick sale, earning more money, or saving your rental deposit by hiring a professional cleaner. A study by HomeLight found home sellers who invest in cleaners earned $3,700 more

South Dakota Schools

Explore the school district and schools

8th Grade Proficiency (2022)

Ranked #4 in Mathematics

Basic Proficiency

72%

Proficient or Above

32%

Ranked #9 in Reading

Basic Proficiency

73%

Proficient or Above

31%

Education Attainment

High School Degree
92.5%
Bachelors Degree
30%

Need some help with your move?

Moving labor can be hired by the hour, helping you budget for the heavy stuff or your entire move.

South Dakota Cities & Towns

South Dakota Economy

The industries, jobs, and economics of the zip code

Median Household Income

$63,920

US Average $74,580

How does South Dakota compare?

In Labor Force

67.5%

Poverty rate

12.3%

Private Employers

27,951

Total Employees

363,923

South Dakota Counties

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