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Cost of Living in
South Dakota

Living cost is 8.27% lower than avg
Families spend upto $8,068/mo on avg
Homeowners spend $7,844/mo on avg
Renters spend $4,080/mo on avg

Cost of Living in
South Dakota

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A Breakdown of the Cost of Living in South Dakota

U.S. Avg.

South Dakota

Difference Diff

Home Price

$534,127

$479,341.33

10%

Apartment Rent (per month)

$1,354

$1,205

11%

U.S. Avg.

South Dakota

Difference Diff

Phone (per month)

$219.9

$200.11

Total Energy (per month)

$194.67

$164.09

16%

U.S. Avg.

South Dakota

Difference Diff

Grocery Staples

Corn Flakes (per box)

$5.88

$5.08

14%

Frozen Corn (per bag)

$2.33

$2.22

Frozen Meal (per package)

$4.75

$3.55

25%

Cooking Oil (per bottle)

$6.00

$9.17

53%

Detergent (per bottle)

$18.81

$20.31

Facial Tissues (per box)

$2.54

$2.16

15%

Sweet Peas (per can)

$1.74

$1.66

Sugar (per bag)

$4.46

$4.96

11%

Bread (per loaf)

$3.66

$3.9

Frying Chicken (per lb)

$1.64

$1.48

10%

Meat & Poultry

Chicken (per lb)

$1.67

$1.52

Steak (per lb)

$13.56

$17.02

26%

Sausage (per lb)

$4.89

$5.1

Ground Beef (per lb)

$7.90

$7.78

Snacks & Beverages

Soft Drink (per bottle)

$3.08

$2.97

Potato Chips (per bag)

$5.08

$4.31

15%

Coffee (per lb)

$5.92

$6.54

10%

Fresh Orange Juice (per half gallon)

$4.85

$4.91

Fruits & Vegetables

Peaches (per can)

$4.29

$2.85

33%

Lettuce (per head)

$1.85

$1.93

Bananas (per lb)

$0.62

$0.75

20%

Potatoes (per bag)

$4.61

$5.41

17%

Dairy & Eggs

Parmesan Cheese (per lb)

$4.46

$4.83

Margarine (per lb)

$1.26

$1.4

11%

Eggs (per dozen)

$4.50

$4.75

Whole Milk (per gallon)

$4.02

$4.82

20%

Seafood

Chunk Light Tuna (per can)

$1.06

$1.2

13%

U.S. Avg.

South Dakota

Difference Diff

Tire Balance (per tire)

$69.15

$57.59

17%

Gasoline (per gallon)

$2.82

$2.92

U.S. Avg.

South Dakota

Difference Diff

Doctor Visit (per visit)

$113.53

$209.68

85%

Dentist Visit (per visit)

$144.14

$107.03

26%

Ibuprofen (per bottle)

$11.48

$12

Prescription Drug (per month)

$21.09

$22.3

Optometrist Visit (per visit)

$93.18

$183.86

97%

U.S. Avg.

South Dakota

Difference Diff

Women’s Slacks

$34.9

$32.28

Boys’ Jeans

$29.45

$24.29

18%

Men’s Shirt

$39.14

$34.24

13%

Wine (per bottle)

$7.14

$12.04

69%

Beer (per 6-pack)

$10.78

$9.51

12%

Veterinary Services (per visit)

$65.41

$66.4

Tennis Balls (per pack)

$3.49

$4.19

20%

Yoga (per class)

$11.89

$15.71

32%

Movie (per ticket)

$11.41

$10.37

Newspaper (per copy)

$18.96

$13.57

28%

Washer Repair (per service)

$109.38

$91.74

16%

Women Slacks

$34.88

$30.21

13%

Boy Jeans

$29.51

$22.45

24%

Man Dress Shirt

$39.05

$31.74

19%

Dry Cleaning (per item)

$13.25

$16.91

28%

Shampoo (per bottle)

$1.56

$1.38

12%

Toothpaste (per tube)

$3.59

$4.04

13%

Beauty Salon (per visit)

$46.61

$34.53

26%

Haircut (per cut)

$26.79

$33.3

24%

Fried Chicken (per serving)

$4.36

$4.81

10%

Pizza (per pizza)

$11.88

$12.13

Hamburger (per serving)

$5.25

$6.14

17%

The cost of living in South Dakota is 8.27% lower than the national average. South Dakota’s lack of income tax, strong agricultural sector, and abundant outdoor recreation contribute to its affordability. With major employers like Sanford Health, Citibank, and South Dakota State University supporting the economy, housing and services remain affordable for residents across various income levels.

Housing is 10% lower than the US average. Median South Dakota home prices stand at $479,341.33, compared to the national median of $428,000. If you're buying a house in South Dakota, plan to pay 10% to 20% of the home price upfront as a down payment. Monthly mortgage payments in the state can be 15% to 25% less than the national average.
Renting in South Dakota is 11.0% lower than the national average of $1,205.00. The average cost of rent in South Dakota is approximately $965 per month. The rent for a one-bedroom apartment in South Dakota is only $826 per month, while a two-bedroom averages $1,090. Even at these low prices, many rentals in South Dakota include amenities like attached garages and spacious yards, which cost extra in urban markets.
Utilities are 13% lower than the national average. South Dakota's wind energy production and efficient rural infrastructure help keep energy costs manageable. Winter heating bills can increase due to harsh temperatures, but summer cooling costs remain minimal. Monthly utility bills average $300, including electricity, heating, water, and internet services.
Food prices in South Dakota are 1% lower than the US median. If you're a family of four, you'll typically spend $1,000 to $1,200 each month on groceries. Single adults budget $280 to $400 monthly, benefiting from the state's agricultural production and local farmers markets.
Healthcare costs in South Dakota are 18.46% higher than the national average. A routine check-up and dental cleaning cost $115 each, while ER visits average $2,400 without insurance. South Dakota's healthcare network includes regional medical centers like Sanford USD Medical Center and Avera McKennan Hospital, which provide quality care at reasonable rates.
Transportation costs are 11.41% lower than the US average. Gas prices average $2.92 per gallon, compared to $3.16 nationwide. Monthly car insurance premiums average $165, which is also less than the national average of $183. Public transit is limited outside major cities, so most residents have personal vehicles.
Miscellaneous expenses are 9.75% lower than the national average. This covers everything from Sturgis Motorcycle Rally tickets to visits to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. A family day at Reptile Gardens costs around $85, while dinner for two at a steakhouse in Deadwood can run up to $110.

Moving to South Dakota? Your wallet will breathe easier. From affordable housing to lower everyday expenses, it’s a refreshing change—just bring a jacket for those winters!

👉 Next Step: Compare single-family homes in South Dakota. Cost of living data is sourced in part from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Figures are provided for informational purposes only and may not reflect real-time changes.

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Is Living in South Dakota Expensive?

No, South Dakota is not expensive to live in. Most families can manage with a reasonable budget. The state’s overall cost of living is 8.27% lower than the national average, with housing standing out as a key benefit, 10% lower than the US median.

With $350,000, you can buy a spacious home in South Dakota with several acres of land and outbuildings. In contrast, that same amount might only cover a small condo in Colorado or a modest house in Minnesota. The state’s lower costs for food, healthcare, and transportation, along with the absence of a state income tax, contribute to its overall affordability.

Housing in South Dakota

If you're looking to buy a home in South Dakota, you'll find it more affordable than many parts of the country. The average home price is $479,341.33, which is 10% lower than the national average. With mortgage rates between 6.5% and 7.5%, and property taxes around 1.2% of the home's value, monthly housing costs remain manageable. Here's a closer look at what you can expect:

Buying a House in South Dakota

For young adults or single people, one-bedroom homes in Sioux Falls or Rapid City are popular entry points into homeownership. These cities provide job opportunities, entertainment venues, and outdoor recreation access. Homes here average $280,000 to $380,000. At that price, mortgage payments range from $1,800 to $2,400 monthly, excluding insurance and taxes. Condos in downtown Sioux Falls, Brookings, and other growing areas are typically priced between $180,000 and $280,000.
If you're a married couple with young children (under 6), expect to pay between $320,000 and $480,000 for a three-bedroom home in Brandon, Tea, or Harrisburg. These family-friendly communities provide access to parks, community centers, and great schools like Brandon Valley School District and Tea Area School District.
If you're a married couple with older children (ages 6 to 17), you can find multi-family homes in South Dakota for $350,000 to $650,000. In areas like Spearfish and Mitchell, it's also possible to find homes with acreage, so you have more space and privacy. These areas offer access to well-rated schools, including Spearfish High School and Mitchell High School.

Renting a House in South Dakota

Renting in South Dakota costs 11.0% lower than the national average. While rent nationwide is typically $1,530 per month, the average rent in South Dakota is $1,205.00. However, rental prices vary based on the size of the city and proximity to major employment centers. Let's break it down:

If you're a young adult or single person, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Sioux Falls or central Rapid City usually ranges from $900 to $1,200 per month. Downtown Sioux Falls is popular for its nightlife and Falls Park, while Rapid City is close to the Black Hills and outdoor activities. More affordable options (around $800 to $1,000) can be found in areas like east Sioux Falls or north Rapid City. These neighborhoods also offer easy access to major employers like Sanford Health and Ellsworth Air Force Base.
If you're a married couple with young children (under 6), expect to pay between $1,200 and $1,600 monthly for a two-bedroom home in Brookings, Aberdeen, or other family-friendly communities. These areas are known for their safe neighborhoods, family activities, and access to educational resources. Brookings has McCrory Gardens, while Aberdeen is home to Wylie Park and several top-rated schools.
For families with older children (ages 6 to 17), renting a three-bedroom home in Pierre or a four-bedroom home in Yankton costs between $1,400 and $2,000 monthly. Rentals near top schools tend toward the higher end of this range.
If you're downsizing, expect to spend $900 to $1,300 monthly renting one- or two-bedroom condos in Spearfish, Hot Springs, or Vermillion. These areas offer low-maintenance living, access to outdoor recreation, and quality healthcare at regional medical centers.
For international students, a three-bedroom apartment in South Dakota typically costs around $1,800 per month. However, since most students share housing with roommates, your personal share of the rent will typically be 25% to 35% lower, especially in student-friendly towns like Brookings and Vermillion.

Utilities in South Dakota

Food and Groceries in South Dakota

Transportation in South Dakota

Healthcare in South Dakota

Healthcare costs in South Dakota are 18.46% higher than the national average, aided by efficient healthcare delivery and lower administrative expenses. While rural residents might need to travel to regional medical centers, quality care is available across the state. Here is a breakdown of medical costs in South Dakota:

Doctor Visit — $209.68+ per visit: Routine care in South Dakota averages $115 per visit, below the national average of $125. Common reasons for visits include flu symptoms, annual physicals, or managing chronic conditions. More specialized appointments, like orthopedic check-ups or allergy testing, typically cost between $180 and $280, depending on the provider and area.
Dentist Visit — $107.03+ per visit: This includes standard cleanings and check-ups. A basic dental cleaning in South Dakota costs about $115, while root canal treatments range from $170 to $240. Compared to nearby states like Minnesota, where cleanings average $125, and Nebraska, at $115, South Dakota stays competitively priced. Other common procedures, such as teeth whitening or dental sealants, typically cost 10% to 15% less than regional averages.
Optometrist Visit — $183.86+ per visit: Routine eye exams in South Dakota tend to cost a bit more than the national average of $130, likely due to fewer providers in rural areas. These exams include vision screenings and prescription updates. Additional services like retinal imaging or cataract evaluations can add $65 to $180 to the total cost.
Prescription Drugs — $22.30+ per package: For chronic conditions like high blood pressure, a month’s supply of Lisinopril ranges from $14 to $25 without insurance. Treating type 2 diabetes with Metformin costs between $18 and $38 per month. Common antibiotics like Amoxicillin typically cost $20 to $32 for short-term use.
Over-the-Counter Meds — $11+ per package: Everyday essentials such as ibuprofen, allergy medication, and cold remedies like DayQuil usually cost between $11 and $15 per package. A stocked medicine cabinet comes in handy during winter flu season, spring allergy outbreaks, or after a lot of time outdoors.

Healthcare costs in South Dakota are lower than in many other states, with quality regional facilities such as Sanford USD Medical Center, Avera McKennan Hospital, and Regional Health Rapid City Hospital available. While harsh winters may raise seasonal illness expenses, the state’s emphasis on preventive care helps keep overall healthcare costs manageable.
It's a good idea to get health insurance, as the average cost of a doctor's visit in South Dakota is around $115*. The monthly premium of a health insurance plan in the state typically ranges between $345* and $615*.

*Disclaimer:These figures are averages and can vary based on individual circumstances and specific insurance providers. It's recommended to compare plans and consult with insurance professionals to find the best coverage for your needs.

Miscellaneous Costs in South Dakota

What Salary Do You Need to Live in South Dakota?

The average income in South Dakota is $8.27% lower. However, a comfortable income for most residents falls between $38,000 and $55,000 per year, depending on factors like lifestyle, household size, and spending patterns. The state’s outdoor-focused lifestyle pairs well with its generally low cost of living.

Homeowners spend $94,124.00 per year: This covers mortgage or property taxes, utilities, and upkeep costs common in South Dakota’s housing markets.

Renters spend $48,964.00 per year: This amount covers rent, groceries, utilities, and transportation, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle across most cities and towns.

Families with kids spend $96,816.00 per year: This level of income covers key family expenses like childcare, larger housing and groceries.

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What is a Cost of Living Calculator?

A cost of living calculator helps you compare the expenses required to live in a different location. The calculator factors in various living expenses like housing, food, utilities, transportation, fitness, and entertainment, etc., and helps you estimate how much salary you need to live in that city. Since the cost of goods and services varies in different cities, a South Dakota cost of living calculator can help you make the decision to move to this city or not.

About Cost of Living Data

The data used to determine South Dakota's cost of living is sourced from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Published since 1968, COLI data is recognized by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This organization regularly updates its data to offer a detailed and well-researched view of living expenses in cities across the country. An independent Advisory Board reviews C2ER’s data collection methodologies and quarterly publications to ensure consistency and quality. For more information, visit www.coli.org. Data published as of Oct 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is gas in South Dakota?

The cost of gas in South Dakota averages $2.92 per gallon. Prices often shift in winter due to weather-related delivery delays, or during busy times like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and hunting seasons. Long drives between cities also mean more frequent fill-ups.

Is South Dakota a good place to live?

Yes, South Dakota is an excellent place to live if you value outdoor recreation, affordable housing, and no state income tax. It offers access to iconic attractions like Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park, plus quality education at South Dakota State University. Cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City offer modern services without losing their community feel.

What is the average cost of living in South Dakota?

The average cost of living in South Dakota is 8.27% lower than the national average. Cities like Rapid City and Sioux Falls tend to be more expensive, while Aberdeen, Pierre, and other smaller towns in the state are more affordable.

What is the average rent in South Dakota?

A one-bedroom apartment in South Dakota typically rents for $800 to $1,205.00 per month. Premium areas like downtown Sioux Falls and central Rapid City charge higher rents for their amenities, like proximity to entertainment districts and outdoor recreation.

How much is a 2-bedroom apartment in South Dakota?

A two-bedroom apartment in South Dakota costs between $1,400 and $1,800 per month. Expect higher rents for luxury homes in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and other areas with prime locations and premium amenities.

What is the average price of utilities in South Dakota?

Utilities in South Dakota range from $350 to over $500 per month. This includes electricity, natural gas, water, sewer, and trash. Heating expenses in winter can significantly increase utility bills.

How much is childcare in South Dakota?

If you're moving to South Dakota, expect childcare costs to range between $810 to $1,040 per month for toddlers. However, prices vary by area. Larger cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City have higher daycare fees, while smaller communities like Aberdeen and Mitchell offer more affordable family care options.