Cost of Living in South Dakota in 2025

South Dakota Cost of Living: Quick Takeaways

Housing Costs: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in South Dakota is around $704 in 2025, showing relative stability over recent years.
Transportation Expenses: Public transportation is affordable with fares averaging $1.50 one-way and monthly passes about $50.
Healthcare Costs: Employer-sponsored health insurance averages about $139.67 monthly, with silver plan premiums around $715 monthly.
Utilities and Groceries: Monthly utility costs total about $187.92, while grocery expenses average $256.48 per person.

South Dakota offers an affordable lifestyle with lower than average living costs across most categories. This article breaks down the various factors creating the overall cost landscape.

From housing to healthcare and beyond, understanding these expenses can help residents and potential movers plan financially for 2025.

1. Housing Costs in South Dakota

Housing remains one of the largest living expenses. Here's how rent for a one-bedroom apartment has evolved over the past decade and more:

2010: Approximately $625
2015: Around $700
2020: Nearly $750
2024: About $716
2025: Estimated at $704

These numbers suggest relatively stable rent prices in recent years with slight fluctuations.

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2. Homeownership and Real Estate Trends in South Dakota

For buyers, median home prices have increased notably:

2010: $150,000
2015: $180,000
2020: $220,000
2024: $329,000
2025: Projected around $335,000

This trend indicates a robust real estate market with rising property values.

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3. Transportation Expenses in South Dakota

Transportation options include affordable public transit and vehicle-related costs:

Public Transit: One-way fares average $1.50, with monthly passes costing around $50.
Fuel Costs: Gas is priced at approximately $3.26 per gallon as of 2025.
Vehicle Maintenance: Annual upkeep averages near $1,000.

Private transport costs vary but tend to remain reasonable compared to urban centers.

4. Utility Costs in South Dakota

Typical monthly utility bills for an average household consist of:

Electricity: Approx. $127.92
Internet Services: Around $60.00

Overall utilities average about $187.92 per month, reflecting slightly below national averages.

5. Grocery and Food Expenses in South Dakota

Groceries typically cost about $256.48 per person monthly, generally close to the national average.

Eating out varies with casual meals costing around $12 and mid-range restaurant dinners averaging $40.

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6. Healthcare Costs in South Dakota

Health-related expenses include employer plans and private coverage:

Employer-Sponsored Insurance: Costs average $139.67 monthly.
Silver Plan Premiums: About $715 monthly on average.

Healthcare costs remain below many U.S. states, improving affordability.

7. Educational Expenses in South Dakota

Education offerings feature a mix of public and private options:

Public Schools: Tuition free as funded by taxes.
Private Schools: Average tuition near $8,000 annually.
In-State University: Tuition around $9,000 per year for residents.

These costs vary widely depending on institution and level.

8. Entertainment and Leisure in South Dakota

Recreational costs provide affordable options:

Movie Tickets: Usually $10 each.
Gym Memberships: Approximately $30 monthly.
Meals at Mid-Range Restaurants: About $40 per person.

Annual spending on entertainment and care services totals around $2,000 and $600 respectively.

9. Taxes and Miscellaneous Fees in South Dakota

Key tax information:

State Income Tax: None (0%)
Sales Tax: Estimated at 4.2%
Property Tax: Average rate approximately 1.17%

The absence of state income tax supports overall cost savings for residents.

10. Childcare and Family Expenses in South Dakota

Childcare costs include:

Daycare: Around $800 monthly.
After-School Programs: Approximately $250 monthly.
Extracurricular Activities: Roughly $100 per month.

These figures are crucial for families budgeting child-related expenses.

11. Clothing and Personal Care in South Dakota

Monthly personal expenses break down as follows:

Clothing: Estimated $100
Personal Care: About $50 for grooming and related products.

These costs are in line with national averages reflecting everyday needs.

12. Insurance Costs in South Dakota

Insurance premiums cover health, auto and housing:

Health Insurance: Average monthly premium about $715.
Auto Insurance: Annual premiums estimated near $959.
Homeowners Insurance: Around $1,200 yearly.
Renters Insurance: Approximately $180 annually.

Insurance costs contribute significantly to the overall budget.

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13. Miscellaneous Expenses in South Dakota

Additional living costs include:

Entertainment Expenses: Estimated annual spending of $2,000.
Personal Care Services: Around $600 spent yearly.
Miscellaneous Goods and Services: Averaging $700 per year.

These categories reflect lifestyle choices and other regular expenses.

14. Income and Salaries in South Dakota

Median household income data over the years shows growth:

2010: About $50,000
2015: Near $55,000
2020: Approximately $60,000
2023 and 2025: Around $72,421

This growth aligns with economic development in the state.

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15. Comparison with National Averages

South Dakota's cost profile compared to U.S. norms:

Overall Cost of Living: Approximately 7% lower
Housing: Around 12% more affordable
Utilities: Roughly 10% less expensive
Food: About 3% lower costs
Healthcare: 8% cheaper on average
Transportation: 7% below national average
Goods and Services: Approximately 4% cheaper

These differences emphasize South Dakota's affordability as a key draw.

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Our Methodology for South Dakota Cost of Living Figures

Data presented here was gathered from reputable resources including government statistics, local reports, and trusted databases like Numbeo and Zillow. Where exact figures were unavailable, reasonable estimates were made to ensure a comprehensive and accurate portrayal of South Dakota's living costs in 2025.

South Dakota Cost of Living: Conclusion

South Dakota offers a cost of living below national averages across most major categories including housing, utilities, healthcare and transportation.

Its lack of state income tax and reasonable property taxes add further financial advantages for residents.

For those seeking affordable living balanced with decent income opportunities, South Dakota in 2025 presents a compelling option worth considering carefully for relocation or investment.

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