South Dakota
The Missouri River divides South Dakota into two distinct halves, known to residents as simply East River and West River. While Mount Rushmore draws thousands of tourists to South Dakota each year, the state’s natural resources, low cost of living and thriving economy lure new residents. Agriculture, tourism and national defense anchor the economy in South Dakota. Considering moving to South Dakota? Read on to learn more about working and living in South Dakota!
Quick Facts About South Dakota
- Median Household Income
- $109,767
- Average Property Tax
- $2864.83
- State Population
- 930,085
- Sales Tax Rate
- 0.0420%
- Median Monthly Rent
- $870
Places We Love In South Dakota
Cities in South Dakota on Livability.com
Experiences & Adventures in South Dakota
From Sea to Shining Sea: The Ultimate Guide to Celebrating America’s 250
Gear up for July 4, 2026! Discover the ultimate guide to celebrating America's 250th birthday, featuring historic 13 colonies sites, the Civil Rights Trail and new museum openings.
Where to Stay at America’s 25 Best National Parks: Lodges, Hotels and Airbnbs
Planning a national park getaway? Book one of these charming lodges, hotels and Airbnbs for your next park visit.
The Best Cities to Visit With Your Dog in Every State
Looking for places you can bring your pup? Check out this list of some of the most Fido-friendly cities in the U.S.
Food Scenes in South Dakota
The Official Food of Each State in the U.S
Eat your way through America the beautiful with our guide to the official food of each state.
Make Your Move to South Dakota
Can Where You Live Shape Your Personality?
Have you ever wondered if the connection between place and personality influences where you live? Here's how your environment can influence your traits, values and worldview.
South Dakota: Where to Live Now
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These 25 Midwestern cities each have something special to offer residents.
Best Places To Live in South Dakota
Wide-open spaces and serene landscapes make South Dakota an extraordinary place to live. Here are the best cities to hang your cowboy hat.
South Dakota: Love Where You Live
50 Things You Didn’t Know About the Olympics
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The 20 Greatest Things About Living in the Midwest
Cheese curds, lakes, beer, quality education, four seasons: There's a lot to love about being in the Midwest.
Data used on Livability.com is provided from the most recent release (November 2025) by Applied Geographic Solutions (AGS). Our LivScore is calculated in partnership with AGS. Sales tax sources: Sales Tax Clearinghouse, Tax Foundation, and State Revenue Departments. Local rates are population-weighted to account for municipal variations.