Iowa vs South Dakota: Which Is Better to Live In?
Iowa ranks #14 of 50 overall and South Dakota #3 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 88.6); Iowa carries a 2.8-point higher tax burden and has a 24% lower violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 33% lower in South Dakota ($8,859 vs. $13,253 in Iowa).
- Total tax burden is 30% lower in South Dakota (6.46% vs. 9.23% in Iowa).
- Typical home value is 26% lower in Iowa ($239,547 vs. $321,574 in South Dakota).
| Measure | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | GapIA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -10.1 pts | 69.2#14 of 50 · B+ | 79.3#3 of 50 · A+ | -10.1 pts | — | SD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.8 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 87.8#3 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | -0.8 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,873 · US -$11,758 | -$2,317#13 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$5,873 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$82,027 (-26%) · US $368,697 | $239,547#7 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | -$82,027-26% | $368,697 | IA |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.77 pts · US 8.74% | 9.23%#34 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +2.77 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -74 (-24%) · US 328 | 234#16 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | -74-24% | 328 | IA |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,380 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $75,501#34 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | -$1,380-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +7.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.9%#6 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +7.8 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| Life expectancyGap +0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#18 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +0.6 yrs | 76.9 | IA |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -3,953 · US -33 | -2,414#35 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -3,953 | -33 | SD |
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 Iowa or South Dakota better to live in?
South Dakota scores higher overall: 79.3 to 69.2 out of 100, #3 of 50 against #14. Iowa leads 3 of 11 categories, South Dakota leads 6, and 2 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -21.2 | 15% | 48.8#24 · B | 70.0#3 · A+ | -21.2 pts | SD |
| Safety12% of scoregap +8 | 12% | 79.8#12 · B+ | 71.8#25 · B | +8 pts | IA |
| Health12% of scoregap +8.6 | 12% | 60.3#20 · B | 51.7#28 · C+ | +8.6 pts | IA |
| Education12% of scoregap +8.4 | 12% | 69.0#9 · A | 60.6#25 · B | +8.4 pts | IA |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +1.6 | 10% | 86.3#5 · A+ | 84.7#8 · A | +1.6 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -10.3 | 8% | 66.0#14 · B+ | 76.3#2 · A+ | -10.3 pts | SD |
| Growth7% of scoregap -25.3 | 7% | 35.0#29 · C+ | 60.3#4 · A+ | -25.3 pts | SD |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +1.2 | 7% | 55.6#13 · B+ | 54.4#15 · B+ | +1.2 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -14.6 | 7% | 27.6#34 · C+ | 42.2#12 · B+ | -14.6 pts | SD |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -23.4 | 6% | 22.4#28 · C+ | 45.8#7 · A | -23.4 pts | SD |
| Environment4% of scoregap -6.6 | 4% | 46.7#17 · B+ | 53.3#11 · B+ | -6.6 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 Iowa cheaper than South Dakota?
Iowa and South Dakota cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 87.8 vs 88.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $5,873 more a year in South Dakota after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | GapIA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.8 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 87.8#3 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | -0.8 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.8 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 93.7#2 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | -1.8 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.34¢ (+3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.72¢/kWh#16 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | +0.34¢+3% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.75 (+8%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.61/Mcf#7 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | +$0.75+8% | $15.83/Mcf | SD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.11 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.12/gal#18 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | -$0.11-3% | $3.32/gal | IA |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,394 (+50%) · US $15,633 | $13,253#17 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$4,394+50% | $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 | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | GapIA−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$482 | +$35,836costs $39,165 | +$35,354costs $39,647 | +$482 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$1,701 | +$28,318costs $46,683 | +$26,617costs $48,383 | +$1,701 | IA |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$5,873 | -$2,317costs $77,317 | +$3,556costs $71,445 | -$5,873 | SD |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$1,113 | +$40,466costs $34,534 | +$39,353costs $35,647 | +$1,113 | Even |
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 | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | GapIA−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$5,074 | $18,105 | $23,179 | -$5,074 | IA |
| ChildcareGap +$8,788 | $26,506 | $17,718 | +$8,788 | SD |
| UtilitiesGap -$39 | $4,214 | $4,253 | -$39 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$203 | $10,553 | $10,756 | -$203 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$345 | $9,806 | $10,151 | -$345 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,745 | $8,133 | $5,388 | +$2,745 | SD |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Iowa or South Dakota?
South Dakota collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.46% vs 9.23%. Iowa has low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; South Dakota has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | GapIA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.77 pts · US 8.74% | 9.23%#34 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +2.77 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +3.8 pts · US 5.46% | 3.8%#13 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | +3.8 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.35 pts · US 1.02% | 1.49%#41 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | +0.35 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.83 pts · US 6.66% | 6.94%#22 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | +0.83 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 Iowa or South Dakota?
Homes cost 34% more in South Dakota: a typical home value of $239,547 in Iowa vs $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $70,437 of income in Iowa and $90,326 in South Dakota; the median household earns $75,501 and $76,881.
| Measure | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | GapIA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$82,027 (-26%) · US $368,697 | $239,547#7 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | -$82,027-26% | $368,697 | IA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1 pts · US +1.2% | +3.5%#11 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.2% | IA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$8 (+1%) · US $1,948 | $1,297#6 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$8+1% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$19,889 (-22%) · US $100,006 | $70,437#8 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | -$19,889-22% | $100,006 | IA |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1x (-24%) · US 4.6x | 3.2x#2 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | -1x-24% | 4.6x | IA |
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.
| IA | SD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,232 | $1,654 |
| Income needed vs. median | -7% | +18% |
| Five-year change | +26.1% | +24.2% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Des Moines | 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 Iowa or South Dakota?
Median household income is about the same, $75,501 in Iowa and $76,881 in South Dakota, with unemployment at 3.5% and 2.1%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Iowa's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and South Dakota's in 0.
| Measure | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | GapIA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$1,380 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $75,501#34 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | -$1,380-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#15 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| GDP per capitaGap -$28 (0%) · US $64,333 | $64,764#21 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | -$280% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.2%#43 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.61 pts · US +0.51% | +0.25%#37 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | -0.61 pts | +0.51% | SD |
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 | IA | SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $241,727$215,137 in Des Moines | $202,091$177,840 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Software Developers | $141,671$126,087 in Des Moines | $124,314$109,396 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| General & Operations Managers | $105,399$93,805 in Des Moines | $90,123$79,308 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $107,679$95,834 in Des Moines | $93,043$81,878 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $75,354$67,065 in Des Moines | $62,577$55,068 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Civil Engineers | $100,113$89,101 in Des Moines | $88,719$78,073 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Registered Nurses | $90,444$80,495 in Des Moines | $79,282$69,768 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Electricians | $65,071$57,913 in Des Moines | $55,802$49,106 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,109$49,937 in Des Moines | $48,506$42,685 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $51,294$45,652 in Des Moines | $43,748$38,498 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Mental Health Counselors | $56,442$50,233 in Des Moines | $48,902$43,034 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Secondary School Teachers | $70,096$62,385 in Des Moines | $63,716$56,070 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $67,263$59,864 in Des Moines | $63,552$55,926 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $73,833$65,711 in Des Moines | $70,181$61,759 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Accountants & Auditors | $80,166$71,348 in Des Moines | $76,534$67,350 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $35,545$31,635 in Des Moines | $32,119$28,265 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $56,506$50,290 in Des Moines | $53,188$46,805 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Construction Laborers | $43,482$38,699 in Des Moines | $40,411$35,562 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,447$52,018 in Des Moines | $55,730$49,042 in Sioux Falls | IA |
| Lawyers | $143,340$127,573 in Des Moines | $141,728$124,721 in Sioux Falls | Even |
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 Iowa safer than South Dakota?
Iowa is safer: 234 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 308 in South Dakota (FBI). Property crime runs 1,172 and 1,312 per 100,000.
| Measure | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | GapIA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -74 (-24%) · US 328 | 234#16 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | -74-24% | 328 | IA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -141 (-11%) · US 1,535 | 1,172#11 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | -141-11% | 1,535 | IA |
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.
- Bettendorf, IA94 violent per 100K
- Brandon, SD46 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Iowa or South Dakota?
Iowa scores higher for education (#9 of 50 vs #25), with high school graduation rates of 89.9% and 82.1%. Iowa scores higher for health (#20 vs #28); life expectancy is 77.9 years in Iowa and 77.3 in South Dakota.
| Measure | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | GapIA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 275#23 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 261#10 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +7.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.9%#6 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +7.8 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| Life expectancyGap +0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#18 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +0.6 yrs | 76.9 | IA |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.4 pts · US 34.03% | 36.6%#34 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.7 pts · US 7.6% | 5.4%#11 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 7.6% | IA |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+23%) · US 38.8 | 43#39 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | +8 pts+23% | 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).
- Urbandale, IAeducation score 98.3
- 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: Iowa #9, South Dakota #25. Health: Iowa #20, South Dakota #28.
Are more people moving from Iowa to South Dakota, or from South Dakota to Iowa?
1,280 households moved from Iowa to South Dakota and 977 moved from South Dakota to Iowa in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 303 households for South Dakota. Movers to South Dakota reported an average income of $57,856; movers to Iowa reported $59,649. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,375 people (±1,201) moving from Iowa to South Dakota and 2,231 (±878) 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 | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | GapIA−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +17,558 (+110%) | 33,544#35 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +17,558+110% | IA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +21,511 (+149%) | 35,958#18 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +21,511+149% | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -3,953 | -2,414#35 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -3,953 | SD |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.3 | -0.7#34 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | -2.3 | SD |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$12,135 (-16%) | $61,608#43 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | -$12,135-16% | SD |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$991 (+2%) | $64,883#41 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$991+2% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.6 | -0.3#35 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | -2.6 | 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, Iowa or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | GapIA−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -3 places | #3score 81.7 | #6score 81 | -3 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +5 places | #8score 77.8 | #3score 82.8 | +5 places | SD |
| Remote WorkersGap +8 places | #10score 63.9 | #2score 83.3 | +8 places | SD |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +14 places | #15score 62.7 | #1score 81.7 | +14 places | SD |
| Small BusinessGap +13 places | #14score 65.8 | #1score 87.4 | +13 places | SD |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +10 places | #18score 52.5 | #8score 68.2 | +10 places | SD |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#3 vs #6)
- RetireesSouth Dakota (#3 vs #8)
- Remote WorkersSouth Dakota (#2 vs #10)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Dakota (#1 vs #15)
- Small BusinessSouth Dakota (#1 vs #14)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsSouth Dakota (#8 vs #18)
Which cities stand out in Iowa and South Dakota?
Iowa has 20 tracked cities and South Dakota has 20; the largest are Des Moines and Sioux Falls. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | IowaIA | South DakotaSD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Des Moines212,421 people | Sioux Falls201,469 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Waukeescore 70.9 | Brandonscore 70 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Bettendorf94 violent per 100K | Brandon46 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Marshalltowncost index 84.1 | Dakota Dunescost index 86.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Fort Dodgewalkability 14.9 of 20 | Sioux Fallswalkability 12.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Iowa Citycounty median AQI 37 | Pierrecounty median AQI 18 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Urbandale98.3% graduation rate | Brandon98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Urbandalemedian income $112,795 | Dakota Dunesmedian income $136,125 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Waukee+9.3% growth | Tea+4.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Iowa and South Dakota compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Iowa carries AAA credit rating and South Dakota AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | GapIA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -13 pts · US 29.34% | 67%#6 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -13 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -27.8 (-42%) · US 29.6 | 38.3#36 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -27.8-42% | 29.6 | IA |
| Public land shareGap -4.3 pts · US 17.16% | 1.1%#48 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 17.16% | SD |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 20.4 min#8 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +1.9 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#31 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | IA |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.9 pts · US 12.28% | 9.9%#36 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 12.28% | IA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 90.7%#45 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 92.67% | SD |
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 | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | GapIA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#6 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.3 pts · US 12.39% | 10.6%#23 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 12.39% | SD |
| Pension funded ratioGap -13 pts · US 74.3% | 87%#9 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | -13 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$310 (+13%) · US $3,506 | $2,650#22 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | +$310+13% | $3,506 | SD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.7 pts · US +4.66% | +7.1%#10 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | -0.7 pts | +4.66% | SD |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Iowa AAA, 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).
Iowa 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. Iowa is ahead on 13 of 51, South Dakota on 21, and 17 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | IowaIA | South DakotaSD | GapIA−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +2,303,293 (+246%) · US 6.8 million | 3.2 million#32 of 50 | 935,094#46 of 50 | +2,303,293+246% | 6.8 million | IA |
| Median household incomeGap -$1,380 (-2%) · US $80,903 | $75,501#34 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | -$1,380-2% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.4 pts · US 3.95% | 3.5%#15 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +1.4 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| Population growthGap -0.61 pts · US +0.51% | +0.25%#37 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | -0.61 pts | +0.51% | SD |
| GDP per capitaGap -$28 (0%) · US $64,333 | $64,764#21 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | -$280% | $64,333 | Even |
| Real GDP growthGap -0.1 pts · US +1.91% | +1.2%#43 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | -0.1 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -74 (-24%) · US 328 | 234#16 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | -74-24% | 328 | IA |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -141 (-11%) · US 1,535 | 1,172#11 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | -141-11% | 1,535 | IA |
| High school graduation rateGap +7.8 pts · US 85.62% | 89.9%#6 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +7.8 pts | 85.62% | IA |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -3 · US 237 | 237#30 of 50 | 240#11 of 50 | -3 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -6 · US 273 | 275#23 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | -6 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 215#25 of 50 | 214#30 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 257 | 261#10 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | +1 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.9#18 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +0.6 yrs | 76.9 | IA |
| Adults with obesityGap -0.4 pts · US 34.03% | 36.6%#34 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | -0.4 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.7 pts · US 7.6% | 5.4%#11 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | -2.7 pts | 7.6% | IA |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$82,027 (-26%) · US $368,697 | $239,547#7 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | -$82,027-26% | $368,697 | IA |
| Home value change, one yearGap +1 pts · US +1.2% | +3.5%#11 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | +1 pts | +1.2% | IA |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$8 (+1%) · US $1,948 | $1,297#6 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$8+1% | $1,948 | Even |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$19,889 (-22%) · US $100,006 | $70,437#8 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | -$19,889-22% | $100,006 | IA |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.8 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 87.8#3 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | -0.8 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -1x (-24%) · US 4.6x | 3.2x#2 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | -1x-24% | 4.6x | IA |
| Residential electricity priceGap +0.34¢ (+3%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.72¢/kWh#16 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | +0.34¢+3% | 17.84¢/kWh | Even |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.75 (+8%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.61/Mcf#7 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | +$0.75+8% | $15.83/Mcf | SD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.11 (-3%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.12/gal#18 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | -$0.11-3% | $3.32/gal | IA |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.8 pts (-2%) · US 100 | 93.7#2 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | -1.8 pts-2% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$4,394 (+50%) · US $15,633 | $13,253#17 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$4,394+50% | $15,633 | SD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.77 pts · US 8.74% | 9.23%#34 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +2.77 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +3.8 pts · US 5.46% | 3.8%#13 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | +3.8 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.35 pts · US 1.02% | 1.49%#41 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | +0.35 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.83 pts · US 6.66% | 6.94%#22 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | +0.83 pts | 6.66% | SD |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#6 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -2.3 pts · US 12.39% | 10.6%#23 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | -2.3 pts | 12.39% | SD |
| Pension funded ratioGap -13 pts · US 74.3% | 87%#9 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | -13 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$310 (+13%) · US $3,506 | $2,650#22 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | +$310+13% | $3,506 | SD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -0.7 pts · US +4.66% | +7.1%#10 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | -0.7 pts | +4.66% | SD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+23%) · US 38.8 | 43#39 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | +8 pts+23% | 38.8 | SD |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -13 pts · US 29.34% | 67%#6 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -13 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -27.8 (-42%) · US 29.6 | 38.3#36 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -27.8-42% | 29.6 | IA |
| Public land shareGap -4.3 pts · US 17.16% | 1.1%#48 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | -4.3 pts | 17.16% | SD |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.9 min · US 25.2 min | 20.4 min#8 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +1.9 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.6 pts · US 2.29% | 0.8%#31 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 2.29% | IA |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.9 pts · US 12.28% | 9.9%#36 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +1.9 pts | 12.28% | IA |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap -0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 90.7%#45 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 92.67% | SD |
| Households moving inIRSGap +17,558 (+110%) · US 78,682 | 33,544#35 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +17,558+110% | 78,682 | IA |
| Households moving outIRSGap +21,511 (+149%) · US 78,715 | 35,958#18 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +21,511+149% | 78,715 | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -3,953 · US -33 | -2,414#35 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -3,953 | -33 | SD |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.3 · US +0.4 | -0.7#34 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | -2.3 | +0.4 | SD |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$12,135 (-16%) · US $77,690 | $61,608#43 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | -$12,135-16% | $77,690 | SD |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$991 (+2%) · US $77,024 | $64,883#41 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$991+2% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.6 · US +1.1 | -0.3#35 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | -2.6 | +1.1 | SD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$5,873 · US -$11,758 | -$2,317#13 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$5,873 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$482 · US +$31,418 | +$35,836#12 of 50 | +$35,354#15 of 50 | +$482 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$1,113 · US +$35,970 | +$40,466#12 of 50 | +$39,353#17 of 50 | +$1,113 | +$35,970 | Even |
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 Iowa and South Dakota numbers say when read together.
South Dakota ranks higher overall
South Dakota leads 6 of the 11 categories to Iowa's 3, with 2 even; Iowa is ahead on health and education. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Iowa is ahead on 13 and South Dakota on 21.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 87.8 in Iowa and 88.6 in South Dakota, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $239,547 and $321,574. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,317 a year after typical costs in Iowa and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
South Dakota takes a smaller share in taxes
Iowa collects 9.23% of income in state and local taxes (low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax 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).
Iowa is safer
Median household income is $75,501 in Iowa and $76,881 in South Dakota, with unemployment at 3.5% and 2.1%. Violent crime runs 234 per 100,000 residents in Iowa and 308 in South Dakota.
Moves between the two run about even
2,375 people moved from Iowa to South Dakota and 2,231 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
South Dakota is the better fit for retirees
For families, Iowa ranks #3 of 50 and South Dakota #6; for retirees, Iowa ranks #8 and South Dakota #3.
Iowa vs South Dakota: frequently asked questions
Is Iowa or South Dakota better to live in?
Iowa ranks #14 of 50 overall and South Dakota #3 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 87.8 vs 88.6); Iowa carries a 2.8-point higher tax burden and has a 24% lower violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Iowa cheaper than South Dakota?
Iowa and South Dakota cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 87.8 vs 88.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$2,317 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Iowa, and +$3,556 in South Dakota. The typical home value is $239,547 in Iowa and $321,574 in South Dakota.
Which has lower taxes, Iowa or South Dakota?
South Dakota has the lower tax burden: 6.46% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.23% in Iowa. Iowa's top income tax rate is 3.8%, its effective property tax rate 1.49% and its combined sales tax 6.94%; South Dakota's are zero, 1.14% and 6.11%.
Is Iowa safer than South Dakota?
Iowa is safer: 234 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 308 in South Dakota, per the FBI. Iowa ranks #16 of 50 for violent crime and South Dakota #28. Property crime is 1,172 per 100,000 in Iowa and 1,312 in South Dakota. The safest tracked cities are Bettendorf, IA, and Brandon, SD.
Are homes more expensive in Iowa or South Dakota?
Homes are 34% more expensive in South Dakota: the typical home value is $239,547 in Iowa and $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $70,437 of household income in Iowa and $90,326 in South Dakota, against median incomes of $75,501 and $76,881.
Do people earn more in Iowa or South Dakota?
Iowa and South Dakota pay about the same: median household income is $75,501 vs $76,881, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.5% in Iowa and 2.1% in South Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Iowa's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and South Dakota's in 0, with 1 even.
Are more people moving from Iowa to South Dakota or from South Dakota to Iowa?
1,280 households moved from Iowa to South Dakota and 977 moved from South Dakota to Iowa in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 303 households for South Dakota. Movers to South Dakota reported an average income of $57,856; movers to Iowa reported $59,649. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,375 people (±1,201) moving from Iowa to South Dakota and 2,231 (±878) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Iowa or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for retirees: #3 of 50 on the retiree index vs #8 for Iowa. Iowa has low income tax, high property tax, with sales tax 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 +$40,466 left after typical costs in Iowa and +$39,353 in South Dakota.
Which is better for families, Iowa or South Dakota?
Iowa and South Dakota are close for families: #3 and #6 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $13,253 a year in Iowa and $8,859 in South Dakota. High school graduation rates are 89.9% and 82.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$2,317 after typical costs in Iowa and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
Is South Dakota better than Iowa?
Yes: South Dakota ranks higher than Iowa overall, #3 of 50 vs #14, with a composite score of 79.3 to 69.2. South Dakota leads 6 of 11 categories and Iowa leads 3, including health and education. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
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Why this pair is featured: bordering states.