Nebraska vs South Dakota: Which Is Better to Live In?
Nebraska ranks #10 of 50 overall and South Dakota #3 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 88.6); Nebraska carries a 2.3-point higher tax burden and has a 29% lower violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 41% lower in South Dakota ($8,859 vs. $15,080 in Nebraska).
- Violent crime rate is 29% lower in Nebraska (218 vs. 308 in South Dakota).
- Total tax burden is 26% lower in South Dakota (6.46% vs. 8.78% in Nebraska).
| Measure | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | GapNE−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -8.2 pts | 71.1#10 of 50 · A | 79.3#3 of 50 · A+ | -8.2 pts | — | SD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.5 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 90.1#10 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +1.5 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$11,941 · US -$11,758 | -$8,385#21 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$11,941 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$40,901 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $280,673#14 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | -$40,901-13% | $368,697 | NE |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.32 pts · US 8.74% | 8.78%#26 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +2.32 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -89 (-29%) · US 328 | 218#12 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | -89-29% | 328 | NE |
| Median household incomeGap -$505 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $76,376#31 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | -$505-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.1%#21 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +5 pts | 85.62% | NE |
| Life expectancyGap +1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.3#15 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +1.0 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -3,023 · US -33 | -1,484#34 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -3,023 | -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 Nebraska or South Dakota better to live in?
South Dakota scores higher overall: 79.3 to 71.1 out of 100, #3 of 50 against #10. Nebraska leads 3 of 11 categories, South Dakota leads 7, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -13.3 | 15% | 56.7#12 · B+ | 70.0#3 · A+ | -13.3 pts | SD |
| Safety12% of scoregap +6.2 | 12% | 78.0#16 · B+ | 71.8#25 · B | +6.2 pts | NE |
| Health12% of scoregap +6.5 | 12% | 58.2#25 · B | 51.7#28 · C+ | +6.5 pts | NE |
| Education12% of scoregap +3.2 | 12% | 63.8#20 · B | 60.6#25 · B | +3.2 pts | NE |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -3.1 | 10% | 81.6#12 · B+ | 84.7#8 · A | -3.1 pts | SD |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -4.9 | 8% | 71.4#8 · A | 76.3#2 · A+ | -4.9 pts | SD |
| Growth7% of scoregap -15.1 | 7% | 45.2#18 · B+ | 60.3#4 · A+ | -15.1 pts | SD |
| Transportation7% of scoregap +1.2 | 7% | 55.6#12 · B+ | 54.4#15 · B+ | +1.2 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -9.8 | 7% | 32.4#26 · B | 42.2#12 · B+ | -9.8 pts | SD |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -23.8 | 6% | 22.0#29 · C+ | 45.8#7 · A | -23.8 pts | SD |
| Environment4% of scoregap -9.2 | 4% | 44.1#22 · B | 53.3#11 · B+ | -9.2 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 Nebraska cheaper than South Dakota?
Nebraska and South Dakota cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 90.1 vs 88.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $11,941 more a year in South Dakota after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | GapNE−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.5 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 90.1#10 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +1.5 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.4 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 94.1#7 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | -1.4 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.04¢ (-8%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.34¢/kWh#3 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | -1.04¢-8% | 17.84¢/kWh | NE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.54 (+16%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.40/Mcf#13 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | +$1.54+16% | $15.83/Mcf | SD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.02 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.21/gal#26 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | -$0.02-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,221 (+70%) · US $15,633 | $15,080#24 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$6,221+70% | $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 | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | GapNE−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$1,695 | +$33,659costs $41,341 | +$35,354costs $39,647 | -$1,695 | SD |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$231 | +$26,386costs $48,614 | +$26,617costs $48,383 | -$231 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$11,941 | -$8,385costs $83,385 | +$3,556costs $71,445 | -$11,941 | SD |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$421 | +$38,932costs $36,067 | +$39,353costs $35,647 | -$421 | 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 | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | GapNE−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$1,826 | $21,353 | $23,179 | -$1,826 | NE |
| ChildcareGap +$12,442 | $30,160 | $17,718 | +$12,442 | SD |
| UtilitiesGap +$72 | $4,325 | $4,253 | +$72 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$158 | $10,598 | $10,756 | -$158 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$62 | $10,089 | $10,151 | -$62 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,472 | $6,860 | $5,388 | +$1,472 | SD |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Nebraska or South Dakota?
South Dakota collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.46% vs 8.78%. Nebraska has high 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 | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | GapNE−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.32 pts · US 8.74% | 8.78%#26 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +2.32 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.2 pts · US 5.46% | 5.2%#24 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | +5.2 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.4 pts · US 1.02% | 1.54%#42 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.87 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#23 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | +0.87 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 Nebraska or South Dakota?
Homes cost 15% more in South Dakota: a typical home value of $280,673 in Nebraska vs $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $83,194 of income in Nebraska and $90,326 in South Dakota; the median household earns $76,376 and $76,881.
| Measure | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | GapNE−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$40,901 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $280,673#14 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | -$40,901-13% | $368,697 | NE |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +3.1%#15 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.2% | NE |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$124 (+10%) · US $1,948 | $1,413#9 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$124+10% | $1,948 | SD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$7,132 (-8%) · US $100,006 | $83,194#17 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | -$7,132-8% | $100,006 | NE |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-12%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#12 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | -0.5x-12% | 4.6x | NE |
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.
| NE | SD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,444 | $1,654 |
| Income needed vs. median | +9% | +18% |
| Five-year change | +25.6% | +24.2% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Omaha | 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 Nebraska or South Dakota?
Median household income is about the same, $76,376 in Nebraska and $76,881 in South Dakota, with unemployment at 3% and 2.1%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Nebraska's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 19 after adjusting for local costs and South Dakota's in 0.
| Measure | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | GapNE−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$505 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $76,376#31 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | -$505-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 3%#6 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| GDP per capitaGap +$2,545 (+4%) · US $64,333 | $67,337#17 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | +$2,545+4% | $64,333 | NE |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#28 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | NE |
| Population growthGap -0.24 pts · US +0.51% | +0.62%#17 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | -0.24 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 | NE | SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $223,267$200,940 in Omaha | $202,091$177,840 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Software Developers | $141,411$127,270 in Omaha | $124,314$109,396 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| General & Operations Managers | $104,988$94,489 in Omaha | $90,123$79,308 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Civil Engineers | $102,437$92,193 in Omaha | $88,719$78,073 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Registered Nurses | $90,051$81,046 in Omaha | $79,282$69,768 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $71,723$64,551 in Omaha | $62,577$55,068 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $101,091$90,982 in Omaha | $93,043$81,878 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $56,370$50,733 in Omaha | $48,506$42,685 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Mental Health Counselors | $56,301$50,671 in Omaha | $48,902$43,034 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $50,587$45,528 in Omaha | $43,748$38,498 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Secondary School Teachers | $69,523$62,571 in Omaha | $63,716$56,070 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $69,281$62,353 in Omaha | $63,552$55,926 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $75,020$67,518 in Omaha | $70,181$61,759 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Accountants & Auditors | $81,297$73,167 in Omaha | $76,534$67,350 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Electricians | $60,544$54,490 in Omaha | $55,802$49,106 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $57,030$51,327 in Omaha | $53,188$46,805 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $58,814$52,933 in Omaha | $55,730$49,042 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Construction Laborers | $43,074$38,767 in Omaha | $40,411$35,562 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $34,211$30,790 in Omaha | $32,119$28,265 in Sioux Falls | NE |
| Lawyers | $142,516$128,264 in Omaha | $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 Nebraska safer than South Dakota?
Nebraska is safer: 218 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 308 in South Dakota (FBI). Property crime runs 1,379 and 1,312 per 100,000.
| Measure | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | GapNE−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -89 (-29%) · US 328 | 218#12 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | -89-29% | 328 | NE |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +66 (+5%) · US 1,535 | 1,379#19 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | +66+5% | 1,535 | Even |
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.
- Papillion, NE48 violent per 100K
- Brandon, SD46 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Nebraska or South Dakota?
Nebraska scores higher for education (#20 of 50 vs #25), with high school graduation rates of 87.1% and 82.1%. Nebraska scores higher for health (#25 vs #28); life expectancy is 78.3 years in Nebraska and 77.3 in South Dakota.
| Measure | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | GapNE−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 280#7 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 256#30 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.1%#21 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +5 pts | 85.62% | NE |
| Life expectancyGap +1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.3#15 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +1.0 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.6 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#42 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 34.03% | SD |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1 pts · US 7.6% | 7.1%#25 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | -1 pts | 7.6% | NE |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-3%) · US 38.8 | 34#9 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).
- Gretna, NEeducation score 98
- 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: Nebraska #20, South Dakota #25. Health: Nebraska #25, South Dakota #28.
Are more people moving from Nebraska to South Dakota, or from South Dakota to Nebraska?
970 households moved from Nebraska to South Dakota and 907 moved from South Dakota to Nebraska in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 63 households for South Dakota. Movers to South Dakota reported an average income of $59,886; movers to Nebraska reported $53,521. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,275 people (±950) moving from Nebraska to South Dakota and 4,055 (±2,381) 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 | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | GapNE−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +6,003 (+38%) | 21,989#40 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +6,003+38% | NE |
| Households moving outIRSGap +9,026 (+62%) | 23,473#11 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +9,026+62% | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -3,023 | -1,484#34 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -3,023 | SD |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.3 | -0.7#33 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | -2.3 | SD |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$13,875 (-19%) | $59,868#45 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | -$13,875-19% | SD |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,581 (+4%) | $66,473#38 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$2,581+4% | NE |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.5 | -0.2#32 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | -2.5 | 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, Nebraska 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 | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | GapNE−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +6 places | #12score 78.8 | #6score 81 | +6 places | SD |
| RetireesGap +4 places | #7score 78.2 | #3score 82.8 | +4 places | SD |
| Remote WorkersGap +7 places | #9score 67.2 | #2score 83.3 | +7 places | SD |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +5 places | #6score 69.3 | #1score 81.7 | +5 places | SD |
| Small BusinessGap +6 places | #7score 73.6 | #1score 87.4 | +6 places | SD |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +11 places | #19score 51.4 | #8score 68.2 | +11 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 #12)
- RetireesSouth Dakota (#3 vs #7)
- Remote WorkersSouth Dakota (#2 vs #9)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Dakota (#1 vs #6)
- Small BusinessSouth Dakota (#1 vs #7)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsSouth Dakota (#8 vs #19)
Which cities stand out in Nebraska and South Dakota?
Nebraska has 20 tracked cities and South Dakota has 20; the largest are Omaha and Sioux Falls. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Omaha488,837 people | Sioux Falls201,469 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Papillionscore 68.8 | Brandonscore 70 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Papillion48 violent per 100K | Brandon46 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Kearneycost index 86.3 | Dakota Dunescost index 86.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | South Sioux Citywalkability 13.9 of 20 | Sioux Fallswalkability 12.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Scottsbluffcounty median AQI 23 | Pierrecounty median AQI 18 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Gretna98% graduation rate | Brandon98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Gretnamedian income $123,992 | Dakota Dunesmedian income $136,125 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Norfolk+1.3% growth | Tea+4.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Nebraska and South Dakota compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Nebraska carries AAA credit rating and South Dakota AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | GapNE−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -46 pts · US 29.34% | 34%#17 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -46 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -17.6 (-27%) · US 29.6 | 48.5#43 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -17.6-27% | 29.6 | NE |
| Public land shareGap -4 pts · US 17.16% | 1.4%#47 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | -4 pts | 17.16% | SD |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.4 min · US 25.2 min | 19.9 min#6 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +1.4 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#41 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.7 pts · US 12.28% | 9.7%#38 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 12.28% | NE |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 91.9%#37 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | NE |
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 | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | GapNE−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#4 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.6 pts · US 12.39% | 12.3%#19 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 12.39% | SD |
| Pension funded ratioGap -13 pts · US 74.3% | 87%#8 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | -13 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,060 (-45%) · US $3,506 | $1,280#1 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | -$1,060-45% | $3,506 | NE |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +8.2%#6 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Nebraska 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).
Nebraska 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. Nebraska is ahead on 16 of 51, South Dakota on 19, and 16 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | NebraskaNE | South DakotaSD | GapNE−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +1,082,912 (+116%) · US 6.8 million | 2 million#38 of 50 | 935,094#46 of 50 | +1,082,912+116% | 6.8 million | NE |
| Median household incomeGap -$505 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $76,376#31 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | -$505-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +0.9 pts · US 3.95% | 3%#6 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| Population growthGap -0.24 pts · US +0.51% | +0.62%#17 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | -0.24 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$2,545 (+4%) · US $64,333 | $67,337#17 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | +$2,545+4% | $64,333 | NE |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.5 pts · US +1.91% | +1.8%#28 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | +0.5 pts | +1.91% | NE |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -89 (-29%) · US 328 | 218#12 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | -89-29% | 328 | NE |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +66 (+5%) · US 1,535 | 1,379#19 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | +66+5% | 1,535 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +5 pts · US 85.62% | 87.1%#21 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +5 pts | 85.62% | NE |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 237 | 238#22 of 50 | 240#11 of 50 | -2 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -1 · US 273 | 280#7 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | -1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 212#39 of 50 | 214#30 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -4 · US 257 | 256#30 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | -4 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +1.0 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.3#15 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +1.0 yrs | 76.9 | NE |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.6 pts · US 34.03% | 37.6%#42 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 34.03% | SD |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -1 pts · US 7.6% | 7.1%#25 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | -1 pts | 7.6% | NE |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$40,901 (-13%) · US $368,697 | $280,673#14 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | -$40,901-13% | $368,697 | NE |
| Home value change, one yearGap +0.6 pts · US +1.2% | +3.1%#15 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | +0.6 pts | +1.2% | NE |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$124 (+10%) · US $1,948 | $1,413#9 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$124+10% | $1,948 | SD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$7,132 (-8%) · US $100,006 | $83,194#17 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | -$7,132-8% | $100,006 | NE |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +1.5 pts (+2%) · US 100 | 90.1#10 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +1.5 pts+2% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.5x (-12%) · US 4.6x | 3.7x#12 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | -0.5x-12% | 4.6x | NE |
| Residential electricity priceGap -1.04¢ (-8%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 12.34¢/kWh#3 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | -1.04¢-8% | 17.84¢/kWh | NE |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$1.54 (+16%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $11.40/Mcf#13 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | +$1.54+16% | $15.83/Mcf | SD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.02 (-1%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.21/gal#26 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | -$0.02-1% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.4 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 94.1#7 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | -1.4 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$6,221 (+70%) · US $15,633 | $15,080#24 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$6,221+70% | $15,633 | SD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +2.32 pts · US 8.74% | 8.78%#26 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +2.32 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +5.2 pts · US 5.46% | 5.2%#24 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | +5.2 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.4 pts · US 1.02% | 1.54%#42 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +0.87 pts · US 6.66% | 6.98%#23 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | +0.87 pts | 6.66% | SD |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#4 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -0.6 pts · US 12.39% | 12.3%#19 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | -0.6 pts | 12.39% | SD |
| Pension funded ratioGap -13 pts · US 74.3% | 87%#8 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | -13 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap -$1,060 (-45%) · US $3,506 | $1,280#1 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | -$1,060-45% | $3,506 | NE |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap +0.4 pts · US +4.66% | +8.2%#6 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | +0.4 pts | +4.66% | Even |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -1 pts (-3%) · US 38.8 | 34#9 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | -1 pts-3% | 38.8 | Even |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -46 pts · US 29.34% | 34%#17 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -46 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -17.6 (-27%) · US 29.6 | 48.5#43 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -17.6-27% | 29.6 | NE |
| Public land shareGap -4 pts · US 17.16% | 1.4%#47 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | -4 pts | 17.16% | SD |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1.4 min · US 25.2 min | 19.9 min#6 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +1.4 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.5%#41 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +1.7 pts · US 12.28% | 9.7%#38 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +1.7 pts | 12.28% | NE |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 91.9%#37 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | NE |
| Households moving inIRSGap +6,003 (+38%) · US 78,682 | 21,989#40 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +6,003+38% | 78,682 | NE |
| Households moving outIRSGap +9,026 (+62%) · US 78,715 | 23,473#11 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +9,026+62% | 78,715 | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -3,023 · US -33 | -1,484#34 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -3,023 | -33 | SD |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.3 · US +0.4 | -0.7#33 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | -2.3 | +0.4 | SD |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$13,875 (-19%) · US $77,690 | $59,868#45 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | -$13,875-19% | $77,690 | SD |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$2,581 (+4%) · US $77,024 | $66,473#38 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$2,581+4% | $77,024 | NE |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -2.5 · US +1.1 | -0.2#32 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | -2.5 | +1.1 | SD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$11,941 · US -$11,758 | -$8,385#21 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$11,941 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$1,695 · US +$31,418 | +$33,659#21 of 50 | +$35,354#15 of 50 | -$1,695 | +$31,418 | SD |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$421 · US +$35,970 | +$38,932#20 of 50 | +$39,353#17 of 50 | -$421 | +$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 Nebraska and South Dakota numbers say when read together.
South Dakota ranks higher overall
South Dakota leads 7 of the 11 categories to Nebraska's 3, with 1 even; Nebraska is ahead on health and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Nebraska is ahead on 16 and South Dakota on 19.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 90.1 in Nebraska and 88.6 in South Dakota, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $280,673 and $321,574. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,385 a year after typical costs in Nebraska and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
South Dakota takes a smaller share in taxes
Nebraska collects 8.78% of income in state and local taxes (high 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).
Nebraska is safer
Median household income is $76,376 in Nebraska and $76,881 in South Dakota, with unemployment at 3% and 2.1%. Violent crime runs 218 per 100,000 residents in Nebraska and 308 in South Dakota.
Moves between the two run about even
2,275 people moved from Nebraska to South Dakota and 4,055 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
South Dakota fits families and retirees better
For families, Nebraska ranks #12 of 50 and South Dakota #6; for retirees, Nebraska ranks #7 and South Dakota #3.
Nebraska vs South Dakota: frequently asked questions
Is Nebraska or South Dakota better to live in?
Nebraska ranks #10 of 50 overall and South Dakota #3 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 90.1 vs 88.6); Nebraska carries a 2.3-point higher tax burden and has a 29% lower violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Nebraska cheaper than South Dakota?
Nebraska and South Dakota cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 90.1 vs 88.6 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$8,385 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Nebraska, and +$3,556 in South Dakota. The typical home value is $280,673 in Nebraska and $321,574 in South Dakota.
Which has lower taxes, Nebraska or South Dakota?
South Dakota has the lower tax burden: 6.46% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.78% in Nebraska. Nebraska's top income tax rate is 5.2%, its effective property tax rate 1.54% and its combined sales tax 6.98%; South Dakota's are zero, 1.14% and 6.11%.
Is Nebraska safer than South Dakota?
Nebraska is safer: 218 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 308 in South Dakota, per the FBI. Nebraska ranks #12 of 50 for violent crime and South Dakota #28. Property crime is 1,379 per 100,000 in Nebraska and 1,312 in South Dakota. The safest tracked cities are Papillion, NE, and Brandon, SD.
Are homes more expensive in Nebraska or South Dakota?
Homes are 15% more expensive in South Dakota: the typical home value is $280,673 in Nebraska and $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $83,194 of household income in Nebraska and $90,326 in South Dakota, against median incomes of $76,376 and $76,881.
Do people earn more in Nebraska or South Dakota?
Nebraska and South Dakota pay about the same: median household income is $76,376 vs $76,881, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3% in Nebraska and 2.1% in South Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Nebraska'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 Nebraska to South Dakota or from South Dakota to Nebraska?
970 households moved from Nebraska to South Dakota and 907 moved from South Dakota to Nebraska in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 63 households for South Dakota. Movers to South Dakota reported an average income of $59,886; movers to Nebraska reported $53,521. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 2,275 people (±950) moving from Nebraska to South Dakota and 4,055 (±2,381) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Nebraska or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for retirees: #3 of 50 on the retiree index vs #7 for Nebraska. Nebraska has high 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 +$38,932 left after typical costs in Nebraska and +$39,353 in South Dakota.
Which is better for families, Nebraska or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for families: #6 of 50 on the families index vs #12 for Nebraska. Center-based infant care costs $15,080 a year in Nebraska and $8,859 in South Dakota. High school graduation rates are 87.1% and 82.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$8,385 after typical costs in Nebraska and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
Is South Dakota better than Nebraska?
Yes: South Dakota ranks higher than Nebraska overall, #3 of 50 vs #10, with a composite score of 79.3 to 71.1. South Dakota leads 7 of 11 categories and Nebraska leads 3, including health and safety. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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Why this pair is featured: bordering states.