Colorado vs South Dakota: Which Is Better to Live In?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and South Dakota #3 as of the latest release. South Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.6 vs 103.1), has no income tax, and has a 27% lower violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 58% lower in South Dakota ($8,859 vs. $20,978 in Colorado).
- Typical home value is 40% lower in South Dakota ($321,574 vs. $532,748 in Colorado).
- Property crime rate is 39% lower in South Dakota (1,312 vs. 2,144 in Colorado).
| Measure | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | GapCO−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -14.6 pts | 64.7#18 of 50 · B+ | 79.3#3 of 50 · A+ | -14.6 pts | — | SD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.5 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +14.5 pts+16% | 100 | SD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$38,886 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$38,886 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$211,174 (+66%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$211,174+66% | $368,697 | SD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.27 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +2.27 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +114 (+37%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | +114+37% | 328 | SD |
| Median household incomeGap +$20,232 (+26%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$20,232+26% | $80,903 | CO |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.2 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +1.2 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +9,802 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | +9,802 | -33 | CO |
Cost of living index from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (US = 100). Left after costs from the America's Dashboard affordability engine for a family of four earning $75,000. Typical home value from Zillow Research. Tax burden from WalletHub. Violent crime from the FBI, per 100,000 residents. Income and graduation from the Census Bureau and NCES. Life expectancy from the CDC. Net households from IRS Statistics of Income. US column is the 50-state average or median.
Is Colorado or South Dakota better to live in?
South Dakota scores higher overall: 79.3 to 64.7 out of 100, #3 of 50 against #18. Colorado leads 3 of 11 categories, South Dakota leads 7, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -9.7 | 15% | 60.3#9 · A | 70.0#3 · A+ | -9.7 pts | SD |
| Safety12% of scoregap -21.4 | 12% | 50.4#46 · D | 71.8#25 · B | -21.4 pts | SD |
| Health12% of scoregap +23.7 | 12% | 75.4#7 · A | 51.7#28 · C+ | +23.7 pts | CO |
| Education12% of scoregap +4.7 | 12% | 65.3#18 · B+ | 60.6#25 · B | +4.7 pts | CO |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -31.6 | 10% | 53.1#38 · C | 84.7#8 · A | -31.6 pts | SD |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -15.9 | 8% | 60.4#22 · B | 76.3#2 · A+ | -15.9 pts | SD |
| Growth7% of scoregap -29.3 | 7% | 31.0#33 · C+ | 60.3#4 · A+ | -29.3 pts | SD |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +7 | 7% | 61.4#3 · A+ | 54.4#15 · B+ | +7 pts | CO |
| Livability7% of scoregap -8 | 7% | 34.2#24 · B | 42.2#12 · B+ | -8 pts | SD |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -1.3 | 6% | 44.5#9 · A | 45.8#7 · A | -1.3 pts | Even |
| Environment4% of scoregap -7.4 | 4% | 45.9#20 · B | 53.3#11 · B+ | -7.4 pts | SD |
Scores run 0 to 100 within each category; weight is the category's share of the composite. Grades follow rank (1–5 A+, 6–10 A, 11–18 B+, 19–26 B, 27–34 C+, 35–42 C, 43–48 D, 49–50 F). Methodology →
Is Colorado cheaper than South Dakota?
South Dakota is cheaper: cost of living index 88.6 vs 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $38,886 more a year in South Dakota after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | GapCO−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.5 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +14.5 pts+16% | 100 | SD |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.2 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | +3.2 pts+3% | 100 | SD |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.47¢ (+18%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | +2.47¢+18% | 17.84¢/kWh | SD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.31 (+13%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | +$1.31+13% | $15.83/Mcf | SD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.10 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | -$0.10-3% | $3.32/gal | CO |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$12,119 (+137%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$12,119+137% | $15,633 | SD |
Cost of living index and the price level for goods from the Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (US = 100). Electricity, natural gas and gasoline prices from the EIA; center-based infant care from Child Care Aware of America. Lower is ahead.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | GapCO−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$10,189 | +$25,165costs $49,836 | +$35,354costs $39,647 | -$10,189 | SD |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$12,027 | +$14,590costs $60,410 | +$26,617costs $48,383 | -$12,027 | SD |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$38,886 | -$35,330costs $110,331 | +$3,556costs $71,445 | -$38,886 | SD |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$10,867 | +$28,486costs $46,514 | +$39,353costs $35,647 | -$10,867 | SD |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | GapCO−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$11,758 | $34,937 | $23,179 | +$11,758 | SD |
| ChildcareGap +$24,238 | $41,956 | $17,718 | +$24,238 | SD |
| UtilitiesGap +$696 | $4,949 | $4,253 | +$696 | SD |
| GroceriesGap +$361 | $11,117 | $10,756 | +$361 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$314 | $9,837 | $10,151 | -$314 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,147 | $7,535 | $5,388 | +$2,147 | SD |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or South Dakota?
South Dakota collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.46% vs 8.73%. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; South Dakota has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | GapCO−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.27 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +2.27 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.4 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.65 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | -0.65 pts | 1.02% | CO |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.78 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | +1.78 pts | 6.66% | SD |
Total tax burden (state and local taxes as a share of personal income) from WalletHub; top marginal income tax rate, effective property tax rate and combined state and local sales tax from the Tax Foundation. Lower is ahead.
Are homes more expensive in Colorado or South Dakota?
Homes cost 66% more in Colorado: a typical home value of $532,748 in Colorado vs $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of income in Colorado and $90,326 in South Dakota; the median household earns $97,113 and $76,881.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | GapCO−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$211,174 (+66%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$211,174+66% | $368,697 | SD |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.9 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | -3.9 pts | +1.2% | SD |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$633 (+49%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$633+49% | $1,948 | SD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$48,432 (+54%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | +$48,432+54% | $100,006 | SD |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.3x (+31%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | +1.3x+31% | 4.6x | SD |
Typical home value, one-year change, largest-metro rent and income needed to buy from Zillow Research (a modeled estimate, not a median). Price-to-income ratio divides that typical home value by ACS median household income. Lower is ahead.
| CO | SD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $2,741 | $1,654 |
| Income needed vs. median | +43% | +18% |
| Five-year change | +6.8% | +24.2% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Denver | Sioux Falls |
Income needed vs. median: how far the income required to buy the typical home sits above (+) or below (−) the state's median household income. Temperature blends price cuts, days to pending and inventory against the national market (Zillow).
Do people earn more in Colorado or South Dakota?
Colorado pays more: median household income $97,113 vs $76,881, with unemployment at 4% in Colorado and 2.1% in South Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and South Dakota's in 0.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | GapCO−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$20,232 (+26%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$20,232+26% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.9 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| GDP per capitaGap +$10,232 (+16%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | +$10,232+16% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Population growthGap -0.46 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | -0.46 pts | +0.51% | Even |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | CO | SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,948$250,427 in Denver | $202,091$177,840 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Software Developers | $150,821$152,329 in Denver | $124,314$109,396 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $115,156$116,308 in Denver | $93,043$81,878 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| General & Operations Managers | $109,441$110,535 in Denver | $90,123$79,308 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Registered Nurses | $97,192$98,164 in Denver | $79,282$69,768 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,322$80,115 in Denver | $62,577$55,068 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Electricians | $70,316$71,019 in Denver | $55,802$49,106 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $83,477$84,312 in Denver | $70,181$61,759 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Civil Engineers | $101,074$102,085 in Denver | $88,719$78,073 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Mental Health Counselors | $59,750$60,347 in Denver | $48,902$43,034 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,050$54,590 in Denver | $43,748$38,498 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Lawyers | $151,994$153,514 in Denver | $141,728$124,721 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Accountants & Auditors | $86,184$87,046 in Denver | $76,534$67,350 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Construction Laborers | $48,799$49,287 in Denver | $40,411$35,562 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,578$57,144 in Denver | $48,506$42,685 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $71,333$72,046 in Denver | $63,552$55,926 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $61,912$62,531 in Denver | $55,730$49,042 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $59,367$59,961 in Denver | $53,188$46,805 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,415$36,779 in Denver | $32,119$28,265 in Sioux Falls | CO |
| Secondary School Teachers | $67,748$68,425 in Denver | $63,716$56,070 in Sioux Falls | CO |
BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, latest release: the median wage in each state's best-paying metro, adjusted for that metro's cost of living (BEA regional price parities). Sorted by the size of the gap.
Is Colorado safer than South Dakota?
South Dakota is safer: 308 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado (FBI). Property crime runs 2,144 and 1,312 per 100,000.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | GapCO−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +114 (+37%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | +114+37% | 328 | SD |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +831 (+63%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | +831+63% | 1,535 | SD |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. Florida and North Dakota use the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Castle Rock, CO30 violent per 100K
- Brandon, SD46 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Colorado or South Dakota?
Colorado scores higher for education (#18 of 50 vs #25), with high school graduation rates of 82.3% and 82.1%. Colorado scores higher for health (#7 vs #28); life expectancy is 78.5 years in Colorado and 77.3 in South Dakota.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | GapCO−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.2 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +1.2 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap -12 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | -12 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.2 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+20%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | +7 pts+20% | 38.8 | SD |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- Pueblo, COeducation score 93
- Brandon, SDeducation score 98
City education scores blend graduation rate, student-teacher ratio and per-pupil spending (NCES). State education scores combine NAEP math and reading with the graduation rate; health scores combine life expectancy, adult obesity and the uninsured rate. Education: Colorado #18, South Dakota #25. Health: Colorado #7, South Dakota #28.
Are more people moving from Colorado to South Dakota, or from South Dakota to Colorado?
990 households moved from Colorado to South Dakota and 716 moved from South Dakota to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 274 households for South Dakota. Movers to South Dakota reported an average income of $76,938; movers to Colorado reported $56,637. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 505 people (±428) moving from Colorado to South Dakota and 390 (±250) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Bars show people (Census ACS, latest release, with 90% margins of error). IRS counts tax-filing households and reports the movers' average income; pairs outside a state's top ten origins and destinations are not published.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | GapCO−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +105,404 (+659%) | 121,390#11 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +105,404+659% | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +95,602 (+662%) | 110,049#39 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +95,602+662% | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +9,802 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | +9,802 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.3 | +1.9#11 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | +0.3 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$8,789 (+12%) | $82,532#16 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | +$8,789+12% | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$20,648 (+32%) | $84,540#13 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$20,648+32% | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.3 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | -4.3 | SD |
Each state's total inbound and outbound households and the movers' average income from IRS Statistics of Income; net domestic migration per 1,000 residents from Census Bureau population estimates. Latest releases.
Which is better for retirees, families or remote workers, Colorado or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for families, retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | GapCO−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +16 places | #22score 66.1 | #6score 81 | +16 places | SD |
| RetireesGap +13 places | #16score 67 | #3score 82.8 | +13 places | SD |
| Remote WorkersGap +21 places | #23score 53.8 | #2score 83.3 | +21 places | SD |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +19 places | #20score 56.7 | #1score 81.7 | +19 places | SD |
| Small BusinessGap +19 places | #20score 59.8 | #1score 87.4 | +19 places | SD |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +7 places | #15score 55.8 | #8score 68.2 | +7 places | SD |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesSouth Dakota (#6 vs #22)
- RetireesSouth Dakota (#3 vs #16)
- Remote WorkersSouth Dakota (#2 vs #23)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Dakota (#1 vs #20)
- Small BusinessSouth Dakota (#1 vs #20)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsSouth Dakota (#8 vs #15)
Which cities stand out in Colorado and South Dakota?
Colorado has 20 tracked cities and South Dakota has 20; the largest are Denver and Sioux Falls. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Denver718,877 people | Sioux Falls201,469 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Broomfieldscore 68.1 | Brandonscore 70 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Castle Rock30 violent per 100K | Brandon46 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Pueblocost index 91.8 | Dakota Dunescost index 86.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Boulderwalkability 14.6 of 20 | Sioux Fallswalkability 12.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pueblocounty median AQI 45 | Pierrecounty median AQI 18 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Pueblo93% graduation rate | Brandon98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Highlands Ranchmedian income $159,307 | Dakota Dunesmedian income $136,125 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Grand Junction+1.8% growth | Tea+4.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Colorado and South Dakota compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Colorado carries AA+ credit rating and South Dakota AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | GapCO−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -41 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -41 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -48.2 (-73%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -48.2-73% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap +30.8 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | +30.8 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.2 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +7.2 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 2.29% | CO |
| Workers working from homeGap +11.9 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +11.9 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.6 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 92.67% | CO |
Renewable share of electricity from the EIA; natural disaster risk from FEMA's National Risk Index; public land share from USGS PAD-US; mean travel time to work, transit and work-from-home shares from the Census Bureau ACS; households with a broadband subscription from the Census Bureau ACS.
| Measure | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | GapCO−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | SD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.3 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap -33 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | -33 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$780 (+33%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | +$780+33% | $3,506 | SD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.3 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | -4.3 pts | +4.66% | SD |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Colorado AA+, South Dakota AAA), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
Colorado vs South Dakota: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. Colorado is ahead on 15 of 51, South Dakota on 27, and 9 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | ColoradoCO | South DakotaSD | GapCO−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,077,467 (+543%) · US 6.8 million | 6 million#20 of 50 | 935,094#46 of 50 | +5,077,467+543% | 6.8 million | CO |
| Median household incomeGap +$20,232 (+26%) · US $80,903 | $97,113#8 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$20,232+26% | $80,903 | CO |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.9 pts · US 3.95% | 4%#26 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| Population growthGap -0.46 pts · US +0.51% | +0.4%#28 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | -0.46 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$10,232 (+16%) · US $64,333 | $75,024#7 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | +$10,232+16% | $64,333 | CO |
| Real GDP growthGap +1.3 pts · US +1.91% | +2.6%#11 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | +1.3 pts | +1.91% | CO |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +114 (+37%) · US 328 | 422#43 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | +114+37% | 328 | SD |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +831 (+63%) · US 1,535 | 2,144#49 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | +831+63% | 1,535 | SD |
| High school graduation rateGap +0.2 pts · US 85.62% | 82.3%#40 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 85.62% | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 239#18 of 50 | 240#11 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -3 · US 273 | 278#15 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | -3 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +7 · US 214 | 221#5 of 50 | 214#30 of 50 | +7 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +5 · US 257 | 265#3 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | +5 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.5#11 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +1.2 yrs | 76.9 | CO |
| Adults with obesityGap -12 pts · US 34.03% | 25%#1 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | -12 pts | 34.03% | CO |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -0.2 pts · US 7.6% | 7.9%#30 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | -0.2 pts | 7.6% | Even |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$211,174 (+66%) · US $368,697 | $532,748#44 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$211,174+66% | $368,697 | SD |
| Home value change, one yearGap -3.9 pts · US +1.2% | -1.4%#47 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | -3.9 pts | +1.2% | SD |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$633 (+49%) · US $1,948 | $1,922#34 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$633+49% | $1,948 | SD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$48,432 (+54%) · US $100,006 | $138,758#43 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | +$48,432+54% | $100,006 | SD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +14.5 pts (+16%) · US 100 | 103.1#39 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +14.5 pts+16% | 100 | SD |
| Home value to income ratioGap +1.3x (+31%) · US 4.6x | 5.5x#40 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | +1.3x+31% | 4.6x | SD |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.47¢ (+18%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.85¢/kWh#30 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | +2.47¢+18% | 17.84¢/kWh | SD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.31 (+13%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.17/Mcf#11 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | +$1.31+13% | $15.83/Mcf | SD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.10 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.13/gal#19 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | -$0.10-3% | $3.32/gal | CO |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +3.2 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.7#36 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | +3.2 pts+3% | 100 | SD |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$12,119 (+137%) · US $15,633 | $20,978#42 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$12,119+137% | $15,633 | SD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.27 pts · US 8.74% | 8.73%#25 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +2.27 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +4.4 pts · US 5.46% | 4.4%#17 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | +4.4 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.65 pts · US 1.02% | 0.49%#3 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | -0.65 pts | 1.02% | CO |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +1.78 pts · US 6.66% | 7.89%#35 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | +1.78 pts | 6.66% | SD |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -5 pts · US 92.7 | 95#24 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | -5 pts | 92.7 | SD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +0.3 pts · US 12.39% | 13.2%#14 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 12.39% | Even |
| Pension funded ratioGap -33 pts · US 74.3% | 67%#37 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | -33 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$780 (+33%) · US $3,506 | $3,120#29 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | +$780+33% | $3,506 | SD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -4.3 pts · US +4.66% | +3.5%#34 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | -4.3 pts | +4.66% | SD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +7 pts (+20%) · US 38.8 | 42#35 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | +7 pts+20% | 38.8 | SD |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -41 pts · US 29.34% | 39%#14 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -41 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -48.2 (-73%) · US 29.6 | 17.9#16 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -48.2-73% | 29.6 | CO |
| Public land shareGap +30.8 pts · US 17.16% | 36.2%#9 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | +30.8 pts | 17.16% | CO |
| Mean travel time to workGap +7.2 min · US 25.2 min | 25.7 min#24 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +7.2 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.5 pts · US 2.29% | 1.7%#18 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 2.29% | CO |
| Workers working from homeGap +11.9 pts · US 12.28% | 19.9%#1 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +11.9 pts | 12.28% | CO |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +3.6 pts · US 92.67% | 94.9%#5 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | +3.6 pts | 92.67% | CO |
| Households moving inIRSGap +105,404 (+659%) · US 78,682 | 121,390#11 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +105,404+659% | 78,682 | CO |
| Households moving outIRSGap +95,602 (+662%) · US 78,715 | 110,049#39 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +95,602+662% | 78,715 | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +9,802 · US -33 | +11,341#8 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | +9,802 | -33 | CO |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.3 · US +0.4 | +1.9#11 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | +0.3 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$8,789 (+12%) · US $77,690 | $82,532#16 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | +$8,789+12% | $77,690 | CO |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$20,648 (+32%) · US $77,024 | $84,540#13 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$20,648+32% | $77,024 | CO |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -4.3 · US +1.1 | -2.0#42 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | -4.3 | +1.1 | SD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$38,886 · US -$11,758 | -$35,330#43 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$38,886 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$10,189 · US +$31,418 | +$25,165#39 of 50 | +$35,354#15 of 50 | -$10,189 | +$31,418 | SD |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$10,867 · US +$35,970 | +$28,486#39 of 50 | +$39,353#17 of 50 | -$10,867 | +$35,970 | SD |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Colorado and South Dakota numbers say when read together.
South Dakota ranks higher overall
South Dakota leads 7 of the 11 categories to Colorado's 3, with 1 even; Colorado is ahead on health and transportation. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Colorado is ahead on 15 and South Dakota on 27.
South Dakota is cheaper day to day
South Dakota's cost of living index is 88.6 against 103.1 in Colorado (US = 100). The typical home costs $532,748 in Colorado and $321,574 in South Dakota. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 a year after typical costs in Colorado and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
South Dakota takes a smaller share in taxes
Colorado collects 8.73% of income in state and local taxes (low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); South Dakota collects 6.46% (no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Colorado pays more
Median household income is $97,113 in Colorado and $76,881 in South Dakota, with unemployment at 4% and 2.1%. Violent crime runs 422 per 100,000 residents in Colorado and 308 in South Dakota.
Moves between the two run about even
505 people moved from Colorado to South Dakota and 390 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
South Dakota fits families and retirees better
For families, Colorado ranks #22 of 50 and South Dakota #6; for retirees, Colorado ranks #16 and South Dakota #3.
Colorado vs South Dakota: frequently asked questions
Is Colorado or South Dakota better to live in?
Colorado ranks #18 of 50 overall and South Dakota #3 as of the latest release. South Dakota is cheaper to live in (cost of living index 88.6 vs 103.1), has no income tax, and has a 27% lower violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Colorado cheaper than South Dakota?
South Dakota is cheaper than Colorado: cost of living index 88.6 vs 103.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$35,330 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Colorado, and +$3,556 in South Dakota. The typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $321,574 in South Dakota.
Which has lower taxes, Colorado or South Dakota?
South Dakota has the lower tax burden: 6.46% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.73% in Colorado. Colorado's top income tax rate is 4.4%, its effective property tax rate 0.49% and its combined sales tax 7.89%; South Dakota's are zero, 1.14% and 6.11%.
Is Colorado safer than South Dakota?
South Dakota is safer: 308 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 422 in Colorado, per the FBI. Colorado ranks #43 of 50 for violent crime and South Dakota #28. Property crime is 2,144 per 100,000 in Colorado and 1,312 in South Dakota. The safest tracked cities are Castle Rock, CO, and Brandon, SD.
Are homes more expensive in Colorado or South Dakota?
Homes are 66% more expensive in Colorado: the typical home value is $532,748 in Colorado and $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $138,758 of household income in Colorado and $90,326 in South Dakota, against median incomes of $97,113 and $76,881.
Do people earn more in Colorado or South Dakota?
Colorado pays more: median household income is $97,113 vs $76,881 in South Dakota, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4% in Colorado and 2.1% in South Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Colorado's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and South Dakota's in 0.
Are more people moving from Colorado to South Dakota or from South Dakota to Colorado?
990 households moved from Colorado to South Dakota and 716 moved from South Dakota to Colorado in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 274 households for South Dakota. Movers to South Dakota reported an average income of $76,938; movers to Colorado reported $56,637. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 505 people (±428) moving from Colorado to South Dakota and 390 (±250) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Colorado or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for retirees: #3 of 50 on the retiree index vs #16 for Colorado. Colorado has low property tax, with income and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; South Dakota has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$28,486 left after typical costs in Colorado and +$39,353 in South Dakota.
Which is better for families, Colorado or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for families: #6 of 50 on the families index vs #22 for Colorado. Center-based infant care costs $20,978 a year in Colorado and $8,859 in South Dakota. High school graduation rates are 82.3% and 82.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$35,330 after typical costs in Colorado and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
Is South Dakota better than Colorado?
Yes: South Dakota ranks higher than Colorado overall, #3 of 50 vs #18, with a composite score of 79.3 to 64.7. South Dakota leads 7 of 11 categories and Colorado leads 3, including health and transportation. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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