Rapid City, SD
Why You’ll Love Living in Rapid City, South Dakota
With its proximity to attractions like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial, Rapid City, South Dakota, is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs. The city boasts a lively cultural scene and a vibrant downtown. But what really sets Rapid City apart is its deep connection to Native American culture. Explore the stories of the Plains Indian tribes at the Journey Museum and Learning Center, or attend the annual Black Hills Powwow, a celebration of Native American traditions, dance and music.
Thinking of moving to Rapid City, SD? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Rapid City, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Rapid City, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Rapid City, SD, a Best Place to Live in 2024
Visitors from around the country travel to Rapid City, SD, to see the main attractions like Mount Rushmore’s presidential portraits that are carved and set in stone, as well as the hoodoos and buttes that define the otherworldly landscape in Badlands National Park. Not only is Rapid City a favorite base camp for tourists, but it’s also one of the best places to live in the U.S. for those who want to put down roots in a region where wide open spaces are plentiful and the cost of living is affordable.
Perks of living in Rapid City include easy access to nearby parks and monuments for epic adventures, like the summertime Badlands Astronomy Festival and seeing one of the largest free-roaming buffalo herds in the U.S. at Custer State Park. The Black Hills region also hosts some noteworthy festivals and gatherings, including rodeos, powwows and the world-renowned Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.
We should also mention that commutes are short – under 14 minutes on average throughout South Dakota – which means more time to catch up with friends at a local brewery (Cohort Craft Brewery is always up to something fun, like Girl Scout cookie and beer pairings!) or go for a post-work hike or bike ride. Those interested in relocating but wondering about jobs are pleased to discover the city boasts a steady job market and industries that range from health care and finance to retail and manufacturing. Sioux Falls is a major medical care hub with significant players like Sanford Health and Avera Health headquartered here.
Rapid City, SD Quality of Life LivScore
Rapid City, SD Top Categories
Housing & Cost of Living
Environment
Transportation
Rapid City ranks highest for housing, environment and transportation.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Rapid City, SD
Rapid City is a great place to enjoy the outdoors all year long. The average highs and lows are 82°F and 59°F (summer) and 37°F and 17°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Rapid City is 42 inches, with March having the highest snowfall averages.
The average annual rainfall in Rapid City is right at 19 inches.
Rapid City averages 218 sunny days a year.
Go for a bike ride or play volleyball at the 60-acre Founders Park. There are also lots of great fly fishing streams near Rapid City, in Rapid and Spring creeks.
Things To Do in Rapid City, SD
See the lifesize, cartoon-like replicas of half a dozen dinos and an extinct reptile at Dinosaur Park. Set on a sandstone ridge, the concrete and steel reproductions, built in 1936, are a fun throwback.
Visit Storybook Island, an amusement park with a carousel and train rides.
An ever-evolving exhibit of colorful, eye-catching murals are in “Art Alley” between 6th and 7th and Main and Saint Joseph streets.
Uprooted is a houseplant shop that hosts plant swaps and offers a monthly plant club subscription.
Dakotah Steakhouse serves up a variety of local game and fish, including steak, elk, buffalo and pheasant.
Aby’s is a full-service bar and live music venue that hosts open mic nights, upcoming talent and even karaoke.
Sidle up to the copper-top bar at Paddy O’Neill’s for “Paddy Hour.” The Irish pub is located inside Hotel Alex Johnson.
The Local and State Economy in Rapid City, SD
Rapid City’s major industry is centered around commercial activities, including agriculture, tourism and professional services. Thanks to its close proximity to the Ellsworth Air Force Base, research and technology also color the economy. Some of the largest employers in the Rushmore Region include Monument Health, the Rapid City School District and the State of South Dakota.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Rapid City is 6.2%.
No, South Dakota does not have a state income tax.
Monument Health Rapid City is the region’s leading health care provider, offering a wide range of medical services. It is also one of the largest hospitals in western South Dakota.
There are a handful of colleges and universities in Rapid City, including the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, Western Dakota Technical College and National American University.
Weather in Rapid City, SD
Average Temperatures
59 High / 36 Low
Average Annual Rainfall
19 Inches
Average Annual Snowfall
42 Inches
Quick Facts about Rapid City, South Dakota
- Median Home Value
- $274,003
- Median Property Tax
- $2,507
- Total Population
- 78,542
- Average Commute
- 14 min
- Median Household Income
- $66,024
- Median Rent per Month
- $873
Map of Rapid City, SD
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