Minnesota vs South Dakota: Which Is Better to Live In?
Minnesota ranks #12 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 98.6), has no income tax, and has a 27% higher violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 57% lower in South Dakota ($8,859 vs. $20,592 in Minnesota).
- Total tax burden is 34% lower in South Dakota (6.46% vs. 9.72% in Minnesota).
- Violent crime rate is 27% lower in Minnesota (224 vs. 308 in South Dakota).
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | GapMN−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -8.9 pts | 70.4#12 of 50 · B+ | 79.3#3 of 50 · A+ | -8.9 pts | — | SD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 98.6#30 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +10 pts+11% | 100 | SD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$28,092 · US -$11,758 | -$24,536#37 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$28,092 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$29,178 (+9%) · US $368,697 | $350,752#26 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$29,178+9% | $368,697 | SD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.26 pts · US 8.74% | 9.72%#40 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +3.26 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -84 (-27%) · US 328 | 224#13 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | -84-27% | 328 | MN |
| Median household incomeGap +$10,236 (+13%) · US $80,903 | $87,117#14 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$10,236+13% | $80,903 | MN |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.5 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#35 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 85.62% | MN |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#6 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | MN |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -6,645 · US -33 | -5,106#39 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -6,645 | -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 Minnesota or South Dakota better to live in?
South Dakota scores higher overall: 79.3 to 70.4 out of 100, #3 of 50 against #12. Minnesota leads 4 of 11 categories, South Dakota leads 6, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -16.9 | 15% | 53.1#15 · B+ | 70.0#3 · A+ | -16.9 pts | SD |
| Safety12% of scoregap +5.3 | 12% | 77.1#18 · B+ | 71.8#25 · B | +5.3 pts | MN |
| Health12% of scoregap +22.8 | 12% | 74.5#9 · A | 51.7#28 · C+ | +22.8 pts | MN |
| Education12% of scoregap +4.1 | 12% | 64.7#19 · B | 60.6#25 · B | +4.1 pts | MN |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -21.6 | 10% | 63.1#29 · C+ | 84.7#8 · A | -21.6 pts | SD |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -17.1 | 8% | 59.2#26 · B | 76.3#2 · A+ | -17.1 pts | SD |
| Growth7% of scoregap -19.6 | 7% | 40.7#25 · B | 60.3#4 · A+ | -19.6 pts | SD |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +5.2 | 7% | 59.6#5 · A+ | 54.4#15 · B+ | +5.2 pts | MN |
| Livability7% of scoregap -5.7 | 7% | 36.5#17 · B+ | 42.2#12 · B+ | -5.7 pts | SD |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -15.1 | 6% | 30.7#21 · B | 45.8#7 · A | -15.1 pts | SD |
| Environment4% of scoregap -2.3 | 4% | 51.0#12 · B+ | 53.3#11 · B+ | -2.3 pts | Even |
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 Minnesota cheaper than South Dakota?
South Dakota is cheaper: cost of living index 88.6 vs 98.6 in Minnesota (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $28,092 more a year in South Dakota after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | GapMN−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 98.6#30 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +10 pts+11% | 100 | SD |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +5 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 100.5#41 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | +5 pts+5% | 100 | SD |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.44¢ (+18%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.82¢/kWh#29 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | +2.44¢+18% | 17.84¢/kWh | SD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.12 (+11%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.98/Mcf#10 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | +$1.12+11% | $15.83/Mcf | SD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.08 (-2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.15/gal#20 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | -$0.08-2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$11,733 (+132%) · US $15,633 | $20,592#41 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$11,733+132% | $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 | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | GapMN−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$5,162 | +$30,192costs $44,807 | +$35,354costs $39,647 | -$5,162 | SD |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$4,530 | +$22,087costs $52,914 | +$26,617costs $48,383 | -$4,530 | SD |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$28,092 | -$24,536costs $99,536 | +$3,556costs $71,445 | -$28,092 | SD |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$4,355 | +$34,998costs $40,002 | +$39,353costs $35,647 | -$4,355 | 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 | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | GapMN−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$1,787 | $24,966 | $23,179 | +$1,787 | SD |
| ChildcareGap +$23,466 | $41,184 | $17,718 | +$23,466 | SD |
| UtilitiesGap +$480 | $4,733 | $4,253 | +$480 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$563 | $11,319 | $10,756 | +$563 | SD |
| TransportationGap -$251 | $9,900 | $10,151 | -$251 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$2,046 | $7,434 | $5,388 | +$2,046 | SD |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Minnesota or South Dakota?
South Dakota collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.46% vs 9.72%. Minnesota has high income tax, with property 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 | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | GapMN−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.26 pts · US 8.74% | 9.72%#40 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +3.26 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +9.85 pts · US 5.46% | 9.85%#45 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | +9.85 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.09 pts · US 1.02% | 1.05%#31 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | -0.09 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.03 pts · US 6.66% | 8.14%#36 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | +2.03 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 Minnesota or South Dakota?
Homes cost 9% more in Minnesota: a typical home value of $350,752 in Minnesota vs $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $98,911 of income in Minnesota and $90,326 in South Dakota; the median household earns $87,117 and $76,881.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | GapMN−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$29,178 (+9%) · US $368,697 | $350,752#26 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$29,178+9% | $368,697 | SD |
| Home value change, one yearGap 0 pts · US +1.2% | +2.5%#21 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$430 (+33%) · US $1,948 | $1,719#24 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$430+33% | $1,948 | SD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$8,585 (+10%) · US $100,006 | $98,911#29 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | +$8,585+10% | $100,006 | SD |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.2x (-5%) · US 4.6x | 4x#19 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | -0.2x-5% | 4.6x | MN |
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.
| MN | SD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,805 | $1,654 |
| Income needed vs. median | +14% | +18% |
| Five-year change | +14.1% | +24.2% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Minneapolis | 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 Minnesota or South Dakota?
Minnesota pays more: median household income $87,117 vs $76,881, with unemployment at 3.9% in Minnesota and 2.1% in South Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Minnesota's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and South Dakota's in 0.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | GapMN−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$10,236 (+13%) · US $80,903 | $87,117#14 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$10,236+13% | $80,903 | MN |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#23 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| GDP per capitaGap +$6,487 (+10%) · US $64,333 | $71,279#13 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | +$6,487+10% | $64,333 | MN |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.2%#19 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | MN |
| Population growthGap -0.29 pts · US +0.51% | +0.57%#21 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | -0.29 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 | MN | SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $247,865$242,908 in Minneapolis | $202,091$177,840 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $117,497$115,147 in Minneapolis | $93,043$81,878 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Software Developers | $147,131$144,188 in Minneapolis | $124,314$109,396 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| General & Operations Managers | $112,218$109,974 in Minneapolis | $90,123$79,308 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Civil Engineers | $107,509$105,359 in Minneapolis | $88,719$78,073 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $80,332$78,725 in Minneapolis | $62,577$55,068 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Registered Nurses | $96,329$94,402 in Minneapolis | $79,282$69,768 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $85,017$83,317 in Minneapolis | $70,181$61,759 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Electricians | $69,341$67,954 in Minneapolis | $55,802$49,106 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Lawyers | $153,543$150,472 in Minneapolis | $141,728$124,721 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $74,902$73,404 in Minneapolis | $63,552$55,926 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,753$58,558 in Minneapolis | $48,506$42,685 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Secondary School Teachers | $73,829$72,352 in Minneapolis | $63,716$56,070 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,550$57,379 in Minneapolis | $48,902$43,034 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Accountants & Auditors | $85,719$84,005 in Minneapolis | $76,534$67,350 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $52,704$51,650 in Minneapolis | $43,748$38,498 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $60,598$59,386 in Minneapolis | $53,188$46,805 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $38,897$38,119 in Minneapolis | $32,119$28,265 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| Construction Laborers | $45,964$45,045 in Minneapolis | $40,411$35,562 in Sioux Falls | MN |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,722$59,508 in Minneapolis | $55,730$49,042 in Sioux Falls | MN |
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 Minnesota safer than South Dakota?
Minnesota is safer: 224 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 308 in South Dakota (FBI). Property crime runs 1,412 and 1,312 per 100,000.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | GapMN−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -84 (-27%) · US 328 | 224#13 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | -84-27% | 328 | MN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +99 (+8%) · US 1,535 | 1,412#22 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | +99+8% | 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.
- Edina, MN52 violent per 100K
- Brandon, SD46 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Minnesota or South Dakota?
Minnesota scores higher for education (#19 of 50 vs #25), with high school graduation rates of 83.6% and 82.1%. Minnesota scores higher for health (#9 vs #28); life expectancy is 79.3 years in Minnesota and 77.3 in South Dakota.
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | GapMN−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 282#3 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 257 | 260#14 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | +0 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.5 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#35 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 85.62% | MN |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#6 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | MN |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.7 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#15 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 34.03% | MN |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.1%#7 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | -3 pts | 7.6% | MN |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 36#13 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
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).
- Eden Prairie, MNeducation score 94.3
- 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: Minnesota #19, South Dakota #25. Health: Minnesota #9, South Dakota #28.
Are more people moving from Minnesota to South Dakota, or from South Dakota to Minnesota?
2,243 households moved from Minnesota to South Dakota and 1,855 moved from South Dakota to Minnesota in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 388 households for South Dakota. Movers to South Dakota reported an average income of $71,016; movers to Minnesota reported $56,885. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,987 people (±1,253) moving from Minnesota to South Dakota and 2,736 (±776) 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 | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | GapMN−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +37,345 (+234%) | 53,331#26 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +37,345+234% | MN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +43,990 (+304%) | 58,437#28 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +43,990+304% | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -6,645 | -5,106#39 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -6,645 | SD |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.5 | -0.9#36 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | -2.5 | SD |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,267 (-4%) | $70,476#33 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | -$3,267-4% | SD |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$25,533 (+40%) | $89,425#8 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$25,533+40% | MN |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.9 | +1.4#22 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | -0.9 | 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, Minnesota 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 | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | GapMN−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +9 places | #15score 77.9 | #6score 81 | +9 places | SD |
| RetireesGap +8 places | #11score 75.6 | #3score 82.8 | +8 places | SD |
| Remote WorkersGap +11 places | #13score 59.7 | #2score 83.3 | +11 places | SD |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +10 places | #11score 63.9 | #1score 81.7 | +10 places | SD |
| Small BusinessGap +16 places | #17score 63.2 | #1score 87.4 | +16 places | SD |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +4 places | #12score 58.6 | #8score 68.2 | +4 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 #15)
- RetireesSouth Dakota (#3 vs #11)
- Remote WorkersSouth Dakota (#2 vs #13)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Dakota (#1 vs #11)
- Small BusinessSouth Dakota (#1 vs #17)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsSouth Dakota (#8 vs #12)
Which cities stand out in Minnesota and South Dakota?
Minnesota has 20 tracked cities and South Dakota has 20; the largest are Minneapolis and Sioux Falls. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Minneapolis427,246 people | Sioux Falls201,469 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Edinascore 72.2 | Brandonscore 70 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Edina52 violent per 100K | Brandon46 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | St. Cloudcost index 87.6 | Dakota Dunescost index 86.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Minneapoliswalkability 14.9 of 20 | Sioux Fallswalkability 12.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | St. Paulcounty median AQI 34 | Pierrecounty median AQI 18 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Eden Prairie94.3% graduation rate | Brandon98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Lakevillemedian income $139,041 | Dakota Dunesmedian income $136,125 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Minnetonka+2.2% growth | Tea+4.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Minnesota and South Dakota compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Minnesota carries AAA credit rating and South Dakota AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | GapMN−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -44 pts · US 29.34% | 36%#16 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -44 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -39.4 (-60%) · US 29.6 | 26.7#25 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -39.4-60% | 29.6 | MN |
| Public land shareGap +5.5 pts · US 17.16% | 10.9%#20 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 17.16% | MN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.2 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#11 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +4.2 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.8%#17 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 2.29% | MN |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.7 pts · US 12.28% | 14.7%#15 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +6.7 pts | 12.28% | MN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#22 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 92.67% | MN |
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 | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | GapMN−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#5 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.8 pts · US 12.39% | 8.1%#37 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | -4.8 pts | 12.39% | SD |
| Pension funded ratioGap -21 pts · US 74.3% | 79%#18 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | -21 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,120 (+48%) · US $3,506 | $3,460#34 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | +$1,120+48% | $3,506 | SD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5.3 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#41 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | -5.3 pts | +4.66% | SD |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Minnesota 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).
Minnesota 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. Minnesota is ahead on 15 of 51, South Dakota on 26, and 10 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | MinnesotaMN | South DakotaSD | GapMN−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +4,895,311 (+524%) · US 6.8 million | 5.8 million#22 of 50 | 935,094#46 of 50 | +4,895,311+524% | 6.8 million | MN |
| Median household incomeGap +$10,236 (+13%) · US $80,903 | $87,117#14 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$10,236+13% | $80,903 | MN |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.8 pts · US 3.95% | 3.9%#23 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +1.8 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| Population growthGap -0.29 pts · US +0.51% | +0.57%#21 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | -0.29 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$6,487 (+10%) · US $64,333 | $71,279#13 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | +$6,487+10% | $64,333 | MN |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.9 pts · US +1.91% | +2.2%#19 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | +0.9 pts | +1.91% | MN |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -84 (-27%) · US 328 | 224#13 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | -84-27% | 328 | MN |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +99 (+8%) · US 1,535 | 1,412#22 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | +99+8% | 1,535 | SD |
| High school graduation rateGap +1.5 pts · US 85.62% | 83.6%#35 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 85.62% | MN |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 241#7 of 50 | 240#11 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 282#3 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +0 · US 214 | 214#27 of 50 | 214#30 of 50 | +0 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 257 | 260#14 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | +0 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +2.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 79.3#6 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +2.0 yrs | 76.9 | MN |
| Adults with obesityGap -4.7 pts · US 34.03% | 32.3%#15 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 34.03% | MN |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -3 pts · US 7.6% | 5.1%#7 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | -3 pts | 7.6% | MN |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$29,178 (+9%) · US $368,697 | $350,752#26 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$29,178+9% | $368,697 | SD |
| Home value change, one yearGap 0 pts · US +1.2% | +2.5%#21 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | 0 pts | +1.2% | Even |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$430 (+33%) · US $1,948 | $1,719#24 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$430+33% | $1,948 | SD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$8,585 (+10%) · US $100,006 | $98,911#29 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | +$8,585+10% | $100,006 | SD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +10 pts (+11%) · US 100 | 98.6#30 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +10 pts+11% | 100 | SD |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.2x (-5%) · US 4.6x | 4x#19 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | -0.2x-5% | 4.6x | MN |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.44¢ (+18%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.82¢/kWh#29 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | +2.44¢+18% | 17.84¢/kWh | SD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.12 (+11%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.98/Mcf#10 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | +$1.12+11% | $15.83/Mcf | SD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.08 (-2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.15/gal#20 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | -$0.08-2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +5 pts (+5%) · US 100 | 100.5#41 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | +5 pts+5% | 100 | SD |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$11,733 (+132%) · US $15,633 | $20,592#41 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$11,733+132% | $15,633 | SD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +3.26 pts · US 8.74% | 9.72%#40 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +3.26 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +9.85 pts · US 5.46% | 9.85%#45 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | +9.85 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap -0.09 pts · US 1.02% | 1.05%#31 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | -0.09 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.03 pts · US 6.66% | 8.14%#36 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | +2.03 pts | 6.66% | SD |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#5 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.8 pts · US 12.39% | 8.1%#37 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | -4.8 pts | 12.39% | SD |
| Pension funded ratioGap -21 pts · US 74.3% | 79%#18 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | -21 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$1,120 (+48%) · US $3,506 | $3,460#34 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | +$1,120+48% | $3,506 | SD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -5.3 pts · US +4.66% | +2.5%#41 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | -5.3 pts | +4.66% | SD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +1 pts (+3%) · US 38.8 | 36#13 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | +1 pts+3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -44 pts · US 29.34% | 36%#16 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -44 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -39.4 (-60%) · US 29.6 | 26.7#25 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -39.4-60% | 29.6 | MN |
| Public land shareGap +5.5 pts · US 17.16% | 10.9%#20 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | +5.5 pts | 17.16% | MN |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.2 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#11 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +4.2 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.6 pts · US 2.29% | 1.8%#17 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 2.29% | MN |
| Workers working from homeGap +6.7 pts · US 12.28% | 14.7%#15 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +6.7 pts | 12.28% | MN |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1.6 pts · US 92.67% | 92.9%#22 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | +1.6 pts | 92.67% | MN |
| Households moving inIRSGap +37,345 (+234%) · US 78,682 | 53,331#26 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +37,345+234% | 78,682 | MN |
| Households moving outIRSGap +43,990 (+304%) · US 78,715 | 58,437#28 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +43,990+304% | 78,715 | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -6,645 · US -33 | -5,106#39 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -6,645 | -33 | SD |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.5 · US +0.4 | -0.9#36 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | -2.5 | +0.4 | SD |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$3,267 (-4%) · US $77,690 | $70,476#33 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | -$3,267-4% | $77,690 | SD |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$25,533 (+40%) · US $77,024 | $89,425#8 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$25,533+40% | $77,024 | MN |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.9 · US +1.1 | +1.4#22 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | -0.9 | +1.1 | SD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$28,092 · US -$11,758 | -$24,536#37 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$28,092 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$5,162 · US +$31,418 | +$30,192#29 of 50 | +$35,354#15 of 50 | -$5,162 | +$31,418 | SD |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$4,355 · US +$35,970 | +$34,998#27 of 50 | +$39,353#17 of 50 | -$4,355 | +$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 Minnesota and South Dakota numbers say when read together.
South Dakota ranks higher overall
South Dakota leads 6 of the 11 categories to Minnesota's 4, with 1 even; Minnesota is ahead on health and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Minnesota is ahead on 15 and South Dakota on 26.
South Dakota is cheaper day to day
South Dakota's cost of living index is 88.6 against 98.6 in Minnesota (US = 100). The typical home costs $350,752 in Minnesota and $321,574 in South Dakota. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$24,536 a year after typical costs in Minnesota and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
South Dakota takes a smaller share in taxes
Minnesota collects 9.72% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, with property 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).
Minnesota pays more and is safer
Median household income is $87,117 in Minnesota and $76,881 in South Dakota, with unemployment at 3.9% and 2.1%. Violent crime runs 224 per 100,000 residents in Minnesota and 308 in South Dakota.
Moves between the two run about even
3,987 people moved from Minnesota to South Dakota and 2,736 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
South Dakota fits families and retirees better
For families, Minnesota ranks #15 of 50 and South Dakota #6; for retirees, Minnesota ranks #11 and South Dakota #3.
Minnesota vs South Dakota: frequently asked questions
Is Minnesota or South Dakota better to live in?
Minnesota ranks #12 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 98.6), has no income tax, and has a 27% higher violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 6 of 11 categories to 4.
Is Minnesota cheaper than South Dakota?
South Dakota is cheaper than Minnesota: cost of living index 88.6 vs 98.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$24,536 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Minnesota, and +$3,556 in South Dakota. The typical home value is $350,752 in Minnesota and $321,574 in South Dakota.
Which has lower taxes, Minnesota or South Dakota?
South Dakota has the lower tax burden: 6.46% of income in state and local taxes vs 9.72% in Minnesota. Minnesota's top income tax rate is 9.85%, its effective property tax rate 1.05% and its combined sales tax 8.14%; South Dakota's are zero, 1.14% and 6.11%.
Is Minnesota safer than South Dakota?
Minnesota is safer: 224 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 308 in South Dakota, per the FBI. Minnesota ranks #13 of 50 for violent crime and South Dakota #28. Property crime is 1,412 per 100,000 in Minnesota and 1,312 in South Dakota. The safest tracked cities are Edina, MN, and Brandon, SD.
Are homes more expensive in Minnesota or South Dakota?
Homes are 9% more expensive in Minnesota: the typical home value is $350,752 in Minnesota and $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $98,911 of household income in Minnesota and $90,326 in South Dakota, against median incomes of $87,117 and $76,881.
Do people earn more in Minnesota or South Dakota?
Minnesota pays more: median household income is $87,117 vs $76,881 in South Dakota, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.9% in Minnesota and 2.1% in South Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Minnesota'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 Minnesota to South Dakota or from South Dakota to Minnesota?
2,243 households moved from Minnesota to South Dakota and 1,855 moved from South Dakota to Minnesota in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 388 households for South Dakota. Movers to South Dakota reported an average income of $71,016; movers to Minnesota reported $56,885. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 3,987 people (±1,253) moving from Minnesota to South Dakota and 2,736 (±776) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Minnesota or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for retirees: #3 of 50 on the retiree index vs #11 for Minnesota. Minnesota has high income tax, with property 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 +$34,998 left after typical costs in Minnesota and +$39,353 in South Dakota.
Which is better for families, Minnesota or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for families: #6 of 50 on the families index vs #15 for Minnesota. Center-based infant care costs $20,592 a year in Minnesota and $8,859 in South Dakota. High school graduation rates are 83.6% and 82.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$24,536 after typical costs in Minnesota and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
Is South Dakota better than Minnesota?
Yes: South Dakota ranks higher than Minnesota overall, #3 of 50 vs #12, with a composite score of 79.3 to 70.4. South Dakota leads 6 of 11 categories and Minnesota leads 4, including health and safety. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
Compare a different pair
Swap either state, or jump to the matchups people open alongside Minnesota vs South Dakota.
Why this pair is featured: bordering states, major moving corridor (2,243 households moved in the busier direction in the latest IRS release).