Sioux Falls, SDBest Places To Live in the U.S. in 2023
Sioux Falls enchants residents with its friendly community, abundance of parks and recreation options, and strong economy. Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Big Sioux River and rolling plains, the city offers a serene setting to establish roots.
Sioux Falls, SD, Is One of the Best Cities To Live in America
A modern city on the prairie, Sioux Falls, SD, has competitive schools, high-quality health care, a strong economy with lots of job openings, friendly neighbors and a cost of living that’s lower than the national average. From recent college grads to young families and retirees, Sioux Falls is a welcoming city and one of the best places to live in the U.S.
Family-friendly amenities include more than 80 parks within city limits, including Falls Park, which is a sight to see year-round but is illuminated with red and green lights during the holiday season. In addition, more than 30 miles of bike paths run along the Big Sioux River, and there are half a dozen public pools, plus an indoor one open year-round.
The Washington Pavilion is a community treasure, home to an art gallery, a performance venue that hosts Broadway shows, a science center, a planetarium and more.
As a fast-growing region, business is booming in Sioux Falls, with distribution logistics, advanced manufacturing, and health care and biotech among the flourishing industries.
Sioux Falls, SD Quality of Life LivScore
Sioux Falls, SD Top Categories
Housing & Cost of Living
Transportation
Amenities
Sioux Falls ranks highest for housing, transportation and amenities.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Sioux Falls, SD
Sioux Falls has four distinct seasons with long summer days, cold winters with snow in the forecast, a color-changing canvas in fall and pleasant springs. Expect winds year-round. The average highs and lows are 83°F and 60°F (summer) and 29°F and 9°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Sioux Falls has remained consistent since the 1950s and averages around 41 inches.
The average annual rainfall in Sioux Falls is 23 inches, with June being the wettest month.
Sioux Falls averages 213 sunny days a year.
Visit Falls Park, a 128-acre oasis with tumbling falls. The park is just outside downtown and perched on the Big Sioux River. Grab a sandwich from Falls Overlook Cafe.
Sioux Falls Weather
213 days
Average Annual Sun
23 inches
Average Annual Rain
41 inches
Average Annual Snow
Things To Do in Sioux Falls, SD
Explore more than five dozen sculptures throughout Sioux Falls. You can even vote on your favorites!
Wild Water West doesn’t just have slides and a wave pool; there’s also an adjacent campsite, mini golf and full-throttle Go Karts.
Pick up fresh-baked loaves of artisan bread from Breadsmith, which has staples in addition to a rotating selection that includes flavors like raisin cinnamon walnut and jalapeño cheddar.
Come hungry to Carnaval Brazilian Grill, where meat dishes are carved at your table until you say stop!
The Local and State Economy in Sioux Falls, SD
Sioux Falls’ major industries are manufacturing, trade and transportation, and educational and health services. In addition, several major companies call Sioux Falls home, including Sanford Health, Pathward Financial Group and Raven Industries.
In 2023, the sales tax rate in Sioux Falls is 4.5%.
No, South Dakota does not have a state income tax.
Because Sanford Health is headquartered in Sioux Falls, it’s no surprise that the health care options here are top-notch. For example, Sanford USD Medical Center is nationally ranked in one adult specialty and rated high performing in two additional specialties. Other options include Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center, which is a Level II trauma center, and Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, which specializes in pediatric care.
There are several colleges and universities in Sioux Falls, SD, including Augustana University, the University of Sioux Falls and Southeast Technical College.
Quick Facts About Sioux Falls, SD
- Median Household Income
- $67,020
- Median Home Value
- $261,529
- Average State Property Tax
- $2,331
- Total Population
- 198,975
- Median Rent/Mo.
- $813
- Average Commute
- 15.5 minutes
Sioux Falls is one of the best places to live in the U.S., thanks in part to top-tier education and a robust local economy. Learn how to experience Sioux Falls best or consider other great places to live in the Midwest. Another good resource as you consider a move: The Ultimate Guide To Finding Your Best Place To Live.
