With its majestic Mount Rushmore and Black Hills, South Dakota has a lot to offer. And while the state is known for its rural flight, it also boasts a few major cities where you’ll want to settle down.
Attractions To Live In South Dakota
For example, Rapid City is a great choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking. And the town is just a short distance from Mount Rushmore, making it a perfect spot for those who want to be within close reach of these iconic landmarks.
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Sioux Falls is a great choice for those who enjoy small-town camaraderie but still want the benefits of a big city. Its diversified economy and booming business community make it a popular spot for young professionals looking to grow their careers.
Mobridge is a lakeside town that’s a good fit for those who like to relax by the water, with fishing and boating options. The town is also home to many family-friendly events, such as arts in the park, a rodeo and town fair.
Aberdeen is another city that’s great for those who enjoy a more rural setting. It has a low cost of living, affordable housing and reasonable commutes, all of which contribute to its high livability ranking.
The city has a high rate of happy marriages and respectable incomes, with the average household earning over 75,000 dollars. Its short commutes mean that residents can spend more time with their loved ones and do the things they love to do.
If you’re looking for an affordable place to live with good schools and low crime, South Dakota may be the perfect choice for you. Here are 12 of the best places to live in this state.
Sioux Falls is a beautiful city that’s known for its big waterfall, which attracts hundreds of tourists every day. It’s also home to numerous parks and other recreational spots.
Brookings #1
Brookings, South Dakota’s fourth-largest city, has developed many points of interest since it was founded in 1879. It is the county seat of Brookings County and is home to the state’s largest college, South Dakota State University.
Brookings is a great place for families, with a growing community and lots of amenities. It has a great mix of one-of-a-kind eateries, local boutiques and plenty of outdoor activities to choose from.
The Children’s Museum of South Dakota, for example, is a must-see for anyone visiting with young children. This popular attraction has interactive displays that will keep your little ones entertained for hours.
In addition, there are a number of museums in Brookings that will keep adults engaged. For instance, the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum will give visitors an insight into the state’s history and agriculture.
Another cool option is the Fear Asylum Haunted House, which offers a variety of experiences and challenges. This is a great way to bond with a group of friends or relatives while getting a thrill!
| Weather | 1 °C, Wind NW at 18 km/h |
| Population | 23,577 (2021) |
| Elevation | 494 m |
| Area | 33.76 km² |
| ZIP codes | 57006-57007 |
Dakota Dunes #2
A booming business park, a golf course, a community center and multiple parks make Dakota Dunes a great place to call home. It’s also a safe place to raise a family and has friendly neighbors and low crime rates.
The town’s main street is Phillips Avenue, a bustling strip lined with local boutiques and restaurants serving farm-to-table favorites. It’s a prime spot for an afternoon stroll.
In the evening, grab a bite at Nick’s Hamburger Shop or dine al fresco at McCrory Gardens, a lush green haven filled with flower power. The city’s Children’s Museum of South Dakota is another popular destination for families.
The eastern region of South Dakota offers a vast array of only-in-the-USA sights, natural wonders and farm-to-table experiences. Whether you’re a history buff exploring national parks, monuments and caves in the Black Hills or Badlands or a sports lover on the waterways of the Missouri River, there’s something for everyone.
| Weather | 4 °C, Wind NW at 23 km/ |
| Population | 2,895 (2014) |
| Area | 7.407 km² |
| Area code | 605 |
| ZIP code | 57049 |
Sioux Falls #3
Sioux Falls is one of South Dakota’s largest cities and is known for its arts and cultural attractions, family-friendly activities, and history. It’s also home to waterfalls, a lively nightlife scene, and plenty of sports. If you’re interested in learning about local history, the Pettigrew Home & Museum is a must-visit.
This historic house, which is the former home of Senator Richard Franklin, is filled with fascinating artifacts, including Native American clothing and stone tools. Another must-visit is the Washington Pavilion of Arts and Science. This is a place where you can experience everything from music concerts to science demonstrations and shows.
The museum is especially fun for children and families, as the exhibits incorporate all five senses and feature a wide range of materials. There are interactive displays that allow you to touch, stamp, poke, color and even build.
Lastly, if you’re looking for something a little more active, take a trip to Terrace Park. This 123-acre outdoor space is perfect for running, biking and hiking. The park is also home to water fountains and a playground.
| Population | 1.97 lakhs (2021) |
| Metro population | 2,81,958 (US: 176th) |
| Weather | 2 °C, Wind NW at 21 km/h |
| Area code | 605 |
Brandon #4
If you’re looking for a small-town South Dakota town that has everything you need without having to travel too far, Brandon is the perfect place to live. Its proximity to Sioux Falls is ideal for families with children, it has one of the best school districts in the state, and it offers affordable housing options.
The town also has a great local economy that is centered around agribusiness and credit processing companies, thanks to its proximity to the largest city in South Dakota. Its job growth projections are positive, too.
For those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of parks and trails to enjoy. The Big Sioux State Recreation Area is especially popular. It’s also home to a variety of outdoor sports, including biking and hiking. The Big Sioux River runs through the park, and there are numerous fishing opportunities.
If you’re a fan of golf, you can head to Brandon Golf Course for some friendly competition or a relaxing round on the greens. It has regular tournaments throughout the summer and is also a great venue for weddings.
| Weather | 2 °C, Wind NW at 19 km/h |
| Population | 10,950 (2021) |
| Area code | Area code 605 |
| Elevation | 412 m |
| Founded | 1973 |
Madison #5
Madison is a small community in Lake County that offers plenty of things to do for residents. It is home to long rolling prairies, numerous lakes, hiking trails, and sports events. It also offers good schools and affordable housing.
It has a low crime rate and a tight-knit community feel, which makes it an ideal place to raise a family. Those who are looking to live in a safe and quiet city should consider moving to Madison.
It has a crime rate that is 60% lower than the state average, making it one of the safest places in South Dakota to live. If you are a nature lover or an avid weekend explorer, this city is the perfect choice for you! It is home to many beautiful waterfalls, rugged rock formations, pools, and mountains.
It is also known for its great fly-fishing opportunities, which are a must-try when visiting this part of the state. Moreover, the weather is more than agreeable for most of the year, which is another plus point for this area.
| Population | 6,071 (2021) |
| Weather | 0 °C, Wind NW at 24 km/h |
| University | Dakota State University |
| Elevation | 511 m |
| Area | 11.95 km² |
| Area code | Area code 605 |
| Founded | 1885 |
Pierre #6
The capital city of South Dakota and the seat of Hughes County, Pierre is an upbeat place to live with plenty to offer. The town is a great place to start a family, with a wide variety of schools and a safe community for seniors.
The best part of the city is its proximity to outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and kayaking. There are also several parks to explore, including Okobojo Point and Cow Creek. For those looking for a bit of R&R, there are several spas and resorts to choose from in the surrounding area.
The best thing about living in the state of South Dakota is its plethora of attractions and activities. It’s not just about living the good life, it’s also about making the most of the opportunities that come your way.
You’ll never run out of things to see or do, from the big city to the tiny town. The statewide tourism board is a great resource for information on events and activities in the area. You can also sign up for free newsletters and receive the latest updates on what’s hot in the local area!
| Weather | 4 °C, Wind SE at 8 km/h |
| Population | 14,000 (2021) |
| ZIP code | 57501 |
| Area code | 605 |
| Elevation | 1,453 ft (442 m) |
Tea #7
There are many cities in South Dakota with a low crime rate, excellent schools and reasonably priced housing. This makes it a popular state for relocation. Known for its majestic mountains, scenic views and Native American history, this state is perfect for outdoor lovers and weekend explorers. You can also enjoy the weather almost all year round!
Rapid City, a bustling and thriving city on the east side of the Black Hills, is one of the best places to live in South Dakota. It provides easy access to a wide variety of outdoor activities and offers good connectivity with other cities.
Spearfish is another popular South Dakota city. It attracts tourists from across the world due to its exotic Northern Black Hills and a plethora of outdoor adventure options. It has an average household income of around $40,737 and has been rated as one of the best cities for raising a family.
The city is also home to some of the best public schools in the country. If you are looking for a quiet place with a warm community, then Hot Springs may be just the place for you. It has a small population of just 3,502 people and is very affordable.
| Weather | 1 °C, Wind NW at 21 km/h |
| Population | 6,256 (2021) |
| Area | 9.81 km² |
| Area code | Area code 605 |
| Elevation | 454 m |
| Founded | 1894 |
Vermillion #8
A top pick for families looking to explore South Dakota’s outdoors, Vermillion offers more than a few fun ways to experience nature. The city’s bluff-top location on the Missouri River in the southeast corner of the state allows for ample outdoor recreation opportunities.
Whether you want to kayak, sail, bike, hike or golf, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Vermillion throughout the year! When it comes to entertainment, the city’s historic downtown is home to more than 90 places to dine, shop, and enjoy live music.
It also has pocket parks, Sculpture Walk and murals, and beautiful architecture. For those seeking a little education, the University of South Dakota campus is central to the town’s culture. This college is famous for its accredited academic programs and on-campus museums.
The National Music Museum, located on the campus of the University of South Dakota, is one of the largest musical instrument museums in the country. The museum features thousands of instruments from around the world, ranging from Chinese chopsticks to violins.
| Weather | 1 °C, Wind NW at 19 km/h |
| Population | 11,802 (2021) |
| University | University of South Dakota |
| Area code | Area code 605 |
| Elevation | 373 m |
FAQs about Live In South Dakota
What do I need to know before moving to South Dakota?
South Dakota is a sparsely populated state in the midwestern region of the United States. The climate is generally cold with long, snowy winters and hot summers. The economy is based on agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. The cost of living is relatively low, and the state is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
What are the best things about living in South Dakota?
South Dakota offers a high quality of life with a low cost of living. It boasts stunning natural scenery, including Mount Rushmore and the Badlands National Park. The state has a friendly, close-knit community, and low crime rates. The economy is stable with low unemployment, and there are ample outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, hunting, and fishing.
