South Dakota vs North Dakota: Which Is Better to Live In?
South Dakota ranks #3 of 50 overall and North Dakota #5 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 88.6 vs 89); South Dakota has no income tax and has a 17% higher violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 2.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 28% lower in South Dakota ($8,859 vs. $12,281 in North Dakota).
- Property crime rate is 23% lower in South Dakota (1,312 vs. 1,698 in North Dakota).
- Violent crime rate is 17% lower in North Dakota (257 vs. 308 in South Dakota).
| Measure | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | GapSD−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap +3.8 pts | 79.3#3 of 50 · A+ | 75.5#5 of 50 · A+ | +3.8 pts | — | SD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.4 pts (0%) · US 100 | 88.6#6 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | -0.4 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$4,678 · US -$11,758 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$1,122#11 of 50 | +$4,678 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$29,281 (+10%) · US $368,697 | $321,574#21 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$29,281+10% | $368,697 | ND |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.15 pts · US 8.74% | 6.46%#5 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | -0.15 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +51 (+20%) · US 328 | 308#28 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +51+20% | 328 | ND |
| Median household incomeGap -$990 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $76,881#29 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | -$990-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -3 pts · US 85.62% | 82.1%#41 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | -3 pts | 85.62% | ND |
| Life expectancyGap -0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#24 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | -0.6 yrs | 76.9 | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +1,585 · US -33 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +1,585 | -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 South Dakota or North Dakota better to live in?
South Dakota scores higher overall: 79.3 to 75.5 out of 100, #3 of 50 against #5. South Dakota leads 5 of 11 categories, North Dakota leads 2, and 4 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap +6.3 | 15% | 70.0#3 · A+ | 63.7#8 · A | +6.3 pts | SD |
| Safety12% of scoregap +1.6 | 12% | 71.8#25 · B | 70.2#27 · C+ | +1.6 pts | Even |
| Health12% of scoregap -7.1 | 12% | 51.7#28 · C+ | 58.8#23 · B | -7.1 pts | ND |
| Education12% of scoregap -4.7 | 12% | 60.6#25 · B | 65.3#17 · B+ | -4.7 pts | ND |
| Affordability10% of scoregap +1.2 | 10% | 84.7#8 · A | 83.5#9 · A | +1.2 pts | Even |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap +6.5 | 8% | 76.3#2 · A+ | 69.8#11 · B+ | +6.5 pts | SD |
| Growth7% of scoregap +8.6 | 7% | 60.3#4 · A+ | 51.7#8 · A | +8.6 pts | SD |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -0.2 | 7% | 54.4#15 · B+ | 54.6#14 · B+ | -0.2 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap +0.1 | 7% | 42.2#12 · B+ | 42.1#13 · B+ | +0.1 pts | Even |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap +6.7 | 6% | 45.8#7 · A | 39.1#14 · B+ | +6.7 pts | SD |
| Environment4% of scoregap +14.8 | 4% | 53.3#11 · B+ | 38.5#27 · C+ | +14.8 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 South Dakota cheaper than North Dakota?
South Dakota and North Dakota cost about the same day to day: cost of living index 88.6 vs 89 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $4,678 more a year in South Dakota after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | GapSD−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.4 pts (0%) · US 100 | 88.6#6 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | -0.4 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 95.5#11 of 50 | 95.7#13 of 50 | -0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.57¢ (+13%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | 11.81¢/kWh#1 of 50 | +1.57¢+13% | 17.84¢/kWh | ND |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.36 (+4%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | $9.50/Mcf#3 of 50 | +$0.36+4% | $15.83/Mcf | ND |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.08 (-2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | $3.31/gal#31 of 50 | -$0.08-2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,422 (-28%) · US $15,633 | $8,859#2 of 50 | $12,281#12 of 50 | -$3,422-28% | $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 | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | GapSD−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$1,117 | +$35,354costs $39,647 | +$36,471costs $38,529 | -$1,117 | ND |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$1,737 | +$26,617costs $48,383 | +$28,354costs $46,646 | -$1,737 | ND |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap +$4,678 | +$3,556costs $71,445 | -$1,122costs $76,122 | +$4,678 | SD |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$1,550 | +$39,353costs $35,647 | +$40,903costs $34,097 | -$1,550 | ND |
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 | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | GapSD−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$2,549 | $23,179 | $20,630 | +$2,549 | ND |
| ChildcareGap -$6,844 | $17,718 | $24,562 | -$6,844 | SD |
| UtilitiesGap -$19 | $4,253 | $4,272 | -$19 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$23 | $10,756 | $10,779 | -$23 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$252 | $10,151 | $10,403 | -$252 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap -$88 | $5,388 | $5,476 | -$88 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, South Dakota or North Dakota?
South Dakota and North Dakota collect a similar share of income in state and local taxes: 6.46% vs 6.61%. South Dakota has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; North Dakota has low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | GapSD−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.15 pts · US 8.74% | 6.46%#5 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | -0.15 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -2.5 pts · US 5.46% | none#3 of 50 | 2.5%#10 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.15 pts · US 1.02% | 1.14%#32 of 50 | 0.99%#29 of 50 | +0.15 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.98 pts · US 6.66% | 6.11%#15 of 50 | 7.09%#29 of 50 | -0.98 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 South Dakota or North Dakota?
Homes cost 10% more in South Dakota: a typical home value of $321,574 in South Dakota vs $292,293 in North Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $90,326 of income in South Dakota and $79,542 in North Dakota; the median household earns $76,881 and $77,871.
| Measure | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | GapSD−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$29,281 (+10%) · US $368,697 | $321,574#21 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$29,281+10% | $368,697 | ND |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.7 pts · US +1.2% | +2.5%#20 of 50 | +5.2%#4 of 50 | -2.7 pts | +1.2% | ND |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$189 (+17%) · US $1,948 | $1,289#5 of 50 | $1,100#1 of 50 | +$189+17% | $1,948 | ND |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$10,784 (+14%) · US $100,006 | $90,326#22 of 50 | $79,542#15 of 50 | +$10,784+14% | $100,006 | ND |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+11%) · US 4.6x | 4.2x#21 of 50 | 3.8x#17 of 50 | +0.4x+11% | 4.6x | ND |
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.
| SD | ND | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,654 | $1,504 |
| Income needed vs. median | +18% | +2% |
| Five-year change | +24.2% | +19% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Hot |
| Largest metro | Sioux Falls | Fargo |
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 South Dakota or North Dakota?
Median household income is about the same, $76,881 in South Dakota and $77,871 in North Dakota, with unemployment at 2.1% and 2.6%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, South Dakota's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and North Dakota's in 10.
| Measure | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | GapSD−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap -$990 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $76,881#29 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | -$990-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 2.1%#1 of 50 | 2.6%#3 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| GDP per capitaGap -$9,022 (-12%) · US $64,333 | $64,792#19 of 50 | $73,814#10 of 50 | -$9,022-12% | $64,333 | ND |
| Real GDP growthGap +2.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.3%#41 of 50 | -1%#49 of 50 | +2.3 pts | +1.91% | SD |
| Population growthGap +0.11 pts · US +0.51% | +0.86%#12 of 50 | +0.75%#14 of 50 | +0.11 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 | SD | ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| General & Operations Managers | $90,123$79,308 in Sioux Falls | $98,070$87,282 in Fargo | ND |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $62,577$55,068 in Sioux Falls | $69,862$62,177 in Fargo | ND |
| Family Medicine Physicians | $202,091$177,840 in Sioux Falls | $209,320$186,295 in Fargo | ND |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $48,506$42,685 in Sioux Falls | $53,196$47,344 in Fargo | ND |
| Mental Health Counselors | $48,902$43,034 in Sioux Falls | $53,440$47,562 in Fargo | ND |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $93,043$81,878 in Sioux Falls | $97,121$86,438 in Fargo | ND |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $55,730$49,042 in Sioux Falls | $52,555$46,774 in Fargo | SD |
| Software Developers | $124,314$109,396 in Sioux Falls | $121,375$108,024 in Fargo | Even |
| Electricians | $55,802$49,106 in Sioux Falls | $58,621$52,173 in Fargo | ND |
| Accountants & Auditors | $76,534$67,350 in Sioux Falls | $79,062$70,365 in Fargo | ND |
| Construction Laborers | $40,411$35,562 in Sioux Falls | $42,722$38,023 in Fargo | ND |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $53,188$46,805 in Sioux Falls | $55,304$49,221 in Fargo | ND |
| Registered Nurses | $79,282$69,768 in Sioux Falls | $81,213$72,280 in Fargo | Even |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $70,181$61,759 in Sioux Falls | $72,022$64,100 in Fargo | Even |
| Civil Engineers | $88,719$78,073 in Sioux Falls | $90,154$80,237 in Fargo | Even |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $32,119$28,265 in Sioux Falls | $30,856$27,462 in Fargo | SD |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $63,552$55,926 in Sioux Falls | $64,757$57,634 in Fargo | Even |
| Secondary School Teachers | $63,716$56,070 in Sioux Falls | $64,392$57,309 in Fargo | Even |
| Lawyers | $141,728$124,721 in Sioux Falls | $141,894$126,286 in Fargo | Even |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $43,748$38,498 in Sioux Falls | $43,729$38,919 in Fargo | 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 South Dakota safer than North Dakota?
North Dakota is safer: 257 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 308 in South Dakota (FBI). Property crime runs 1,312 and 1,698 per 100,000. North Dakota shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data.
| Measure | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | GapSD−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +51 (+20%) · US 328 | 308#28 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +51+20% | 328 | ND |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -386 (-23%) · US 1,535 | 1,312#16 of 50 | 1,698#37 of 50 | -386-23% | 1,535 | SD |
FBI state crime estimates, offenses per 100,000 residents, latest release. North Dakota uses the FBI's prior-year estimate because the latest year is based on limited data. Lower is ahead.
- Brandon, SD46 violent per 100K
- Lincoln, ND44 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, South Dakota or North Dakota?
North Dakota scores higher for education (#17 of 50 vs #25), with high school graduation rates of 82.1% and 85.1%. North Dakota scores higher for health (#23 vs #28); life expectancy is 77.3 years in South Dakota and 77.9 in North Dakota.
| Measure | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | GapSD−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 281#6 of 50 | 280#8 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 260#16 of 50 | 257#24 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap -3 pts · US 85.62% | 82.1%#41 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | -3 pts | 85.62% | ND |
| Life expectancyGap -0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#24 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | -0.6 yrs | 76.9 | ND |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.2 pts · US 34.03% | 37%#39 of 50 | 36.8%#36 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2 pts · US 7.6% | 8.1%#31 of 50 | 6.1%#17 of 50 | +2 pts | 7.6% | ND |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-8%) · US 38.8 | 35#11 of 50 | 38#19 of 50 | -3 pts-8% | 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).
- Brandon, SDeducation score 98
- Beulah, NDeducation score 95
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: South Dakota #25, North Dakota #17. Health: South Dakota #28, North Dakota #23.
Are more people moving from South Dakota to North Dakota, or from North Dakota to South Dakota?
656 households moved from South Dakota to North Dakota and 676 moved from North Dakota to South Dakota in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 20 households for South Dakota. Movers to North Dakota reported an average income of $54,006; movers to South Dakota reported $64,114. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,205 people (±613) moving from South Dakota to North Dakota and 1,850 (±1,046) 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 | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | GapSD−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +2,205 (+16%) | 15,986#46 of 50 | 13,781#48 of 50 | +2,205+16% | SD |
| Households moving outIRSGap +620 (+4%) | 14,447#4 of 50 | 13,827#3 of 50 | +620+4% | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +1,585 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +1,585 | SD |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.7 | +1.6#14 of 50 | -0.1#28 of 50 | +1.7 | SD |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$19,147 (+35%) | $73,743#31 of 50 | $54,596#50 of 50 | +$19,147+35% | SD |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$912 (-1%) | $63,892#44 of 50 | $64,804#42 of 50 | -$912-1% | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.7 | +2.3#17 of 50 | +0.6#29 of 50 | +1.7 | 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, South Dakota or North Dakota?
All six lifestyle indexes rank South Dakota and North Dakota within 4 places of each other. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | GapSD−ND | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +1 places | #6score 81 | #5score 81.1 | +1 places | Even |
| RetireesGap -1 places | #3score 82.8 | #4score 79.1 | -1 places | Even |
| Remote WorkersGap -3 places | #2score 83.3 | #5score 73.2 | -3 places | Even |
| Young ProfessionalsGap -2 places | #1score 81.7 | #3score 75.9 | -2 places | Even |
| Small BusinessGap -2 places | #1score 87.4 | #3score 79.1 | -2 places | Even |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap -3 places | #8score 68.2 | #11score 59.9 | -3 places | Even |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#6 vs #5)
- RetireesEven (#3 vs #4)
- Remote WorkersEven (#2 vs #5)
- Young ProfessionalsEven (#1 vs #3)
- Small BusinessEven (#1 vs #3)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsEven (#8 vs #11)
Which cities stand out in South Dakota and North Dakota?
South Dakota has 20 tracked cities and North Dakota has 20; the largest are Sioux Falls and Fargo. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Sioux Falls201,469 people | Fargo131,627 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Brandonscore 70 | West Fargoscore 69.3 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Brandon46 violent per 100K | Lincoln44 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Dakota Dunescost index 86.5 | Grand Forkscost index 86.7 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Sioux Fallswalkability 12.1 of 20 | West Fargowalkability 14.9 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Pierrecounty median AQI 18 | Minotcounty median AQI 36 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Brandon98% graduation rate | Beulah95% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Dakota Dunesmedian income $136,125 | Horacemedian income $138,578 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Tea+4.1% growth | Horace+12.7% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do South Dakota and North Dakota compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. South Dakota carries AAA credit rating and North Dakota AA+.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | GapSD−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap +39 pts · US 29.34% | 80%#2 of 50 | 41%#13 of 50 | +39 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.4 (+25%) · US 29.6 | 66.1#49 of 50 | 52.7#46 of 50 | +13.4+25% | 29.6 | ND |
| Public land shareGap +1.5 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#34 of 50 | 3.9%#39 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 17.16% | SD |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1 min · US 25.2 min | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | 17.5 min#1 of 50 | +1 min | 25.2 min | ND |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.2%#50 of 50 | 0.5%#40 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 8%#47 of 50 | 7.1%#49 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 12.28% | SD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 91.3%#40 of 50 | 90.7%#44 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 | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | GapSD−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#2 of 50 | 95#19 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | SD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -5.7 pts · US 12.39% | 12.9%#16 of 50 | 18.6%#5 of 50 | -5.7 pts | 12.39% | ND |
| Pension funded ratioGap +30 pts · US 74.3% | 100%#1 of 50 | 70%#33 of 50 | +30 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$150 (+7%) · US $3,506 | $2,340#16 of 50 | $2,190#13 of 50 | +$150+7% | $3,506 | ND |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1 pts · US +4.66% | +7.8%#7 of 50 | +8.8%#3 of 50 | -1 pts | +4.66% | ND |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; South Dakota AAA, North Dakota AA+), rainy-day fund and budget balance as a share of spending (Pew, NASBO), pension funded ratio (Pew) and state debt per capita (Census Bureau).
South Dakota vs North Dakota: every metric side by side
Every measure behind the category scores, with each state's rank of 50 and the US figure. South Dakota is ahead on 18 of 51, North Dakota on 19, and 14 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | South DakotaSD | North DakotaND | GapSD−ND | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +135,736 (+17%) · US 6.8 million | 935,094#46 of 50 | 799,358#47 of 50 | +135,736+17% | 6.8 million | SD |
| Median household incomeGap -$990 (-1%) · US $80,903 | $76,881#29 of 50 | $77,871#25 of 50 | -$990-1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap -0.5 pts · US 3.95% | 2.1%#1 of 50 | 2.6%#3 of 50 | -0.5 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| Population growthGap +0.11 pts · US +0.51% | +0.86%#12 of 50 | +0.75%#14 of 50 | +0.11 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap -$9,022 (-12%) · US $64,333 | $64,792#19 of 50 | $73,814#10 of 50 | -$9,022-12% | $64,333 | ND |
| Real GDP growthGap +2.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.3%#41 of 50 | -1%#49 of 50 | +2.3 pts | +1.91% | SD |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +51 (+20%) · US 328 | 308#28 of 50 | 257#22 of 50 | +51+20% | 328 | ND |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -386 (-23%) · US 1,535 | 1,312#16 of 50 | 1,698#37 of 50 | -386-23% | 1,535 | SD |
| High school graduation rateGap -3 pts · US 85.62% | 82.1%#41 of 50 | 85.1%#32 of 50 | -3 pts | 85.62% | ND |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 240#11 of 50 | 241#6 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +1 · US 273 | 281#6 of 50 | 280#8 of 50 | +1 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 214 | 214#30 of 50 | 216#21 of 50 | -1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +3 · US 257 | 260#16 of 50 | 257#24 of 50 | +3 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.6 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.3#24 of 50 | 77.9#17 of 50 | -0.6 yrs | 76.9 | ND |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.2 pts · US 34.03% | 37%#39 of 50 | 36.8%#36 of 50 | +0.2 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +2 pts · US 7.6% | 8.1%#31 of 50 | 6.1%#17 of 50 | +2 pts | 7.6% | ND |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$29,281 (+10%) · US $368,697 | $321,574#21 of 50 | $292,293#16 of 50 | +$29,281+10% | $368,697 | ND |
| Home value change, one yearGap -2.7 pts · US +1.2% | +2.5%#20 of 50 | +5.2%#4 of 50 | -2.7 pts | +1.2% | ND |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$189 (+17%) · US $1,948 | $1,289#5 of 50 | $1,100#1 of 50 | +$189+17% | $1,948 | ND |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$10,784 (+14%) · US $100,006 | $90,326#22 of 50 | $79,542#15 of 50 | +$10,784+14% | $100,006 | ND |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap -0.4 pts (0%) · US 100 | 88.6#6 of 50 | 89#8 of 50 | -0.4 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.4x (+11%) · US 4.6x | 4.2x#21 of 50 | 3.8x#17 of 50 | +0.4x+11% | 4.6x | ND |
| Residential electricity priceGap +1.57¢ (+13%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | 11.81¢/kWh#1 of 50 | +1.57¢+13% | 17.84¢/kWh | ND |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.36 (+4%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | $9.50/Mcf#3 of 50 | +$0.36+4% | $15.83/Mcf | ND |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.08 (-2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | $3.31/gal#31 of 50 | -$0.08-2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -0.2 pts (0%) · US 100 | 95.5#11 of 50 | 95.7#13 of 50 | -0.2 pts0% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap -$3,422 (-28%) · US $15,633 | $8,859#2 of 50 | $12,281#12 of 50 | -$3,422-28% | $15,633 | SD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap -0.15 pts · US 8.74% | 6.46%#5 of 50 | 6.61%#8 of 50 | -0.15 pts | 8.74% | Even |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap -2.5 pts · US 5.46% | none#3 of 50 | 2.5%#10 of 50 | -2.5 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.15 pts · US 1.02% | 1.14%#32 of 50 | 0.99%#29 of 50 | +0.15 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.98 pts · US 6.66% | 6.11%#15 of 50 | 7.09%#29 of 50 | -0.98 pts | 6.66% | SD |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap +5 pts · US 92.7 | 100#2 of 50 | 95#19 of 50 | +5 pts | 92.7 | SD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -5.7 pts · US 12.39% | 12.9%#16 of 50 | 18.6%#5 of 50 | -5.7 pts | 12.39% | ND |
| Pension funded ratioGap +30 pts · US 74.3% | 100%#1 of 50 | 70%#33 of 50 | +30 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap +$150 (+7%) · US $3,506 | $2,340#16 of 50 | $2,190#13 of 50 | +$150+7% | $3,506 | ND |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -1 pts · US +4.66% | +7.8%#7 of 50 | +8.8%#3 of 50 | -1 pts | +4.66% | ND |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap -3 pts (-8%) · US 38.8 | 35#11 of 50 | 38#19 of 50 | -3 pts-8% | 38.8 | SD |
| Renewable share of electricityGap +39 pts · US 29.34% | 80%#2 of 50 | 41%#13 of 50 | +39 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap +13.4 (+25%) · US 29.6 | 66.1#49 of 50 | 52.7#46 of 50 | +13.4+25% | 29.6 | ND |
| Public land shareGap +1.5 pts · US 17.16% | 5.4%#34 of 50 | 3.9%#39 of 50 | +1.5 pts | 17.16% | SD |
| Mean travel time to workGap +1 min · US 25.2 min | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | 17.5 min#1 of 50 | +1 min | 25.2 min | ND |
| Commuters using public transitGap -0.3 pts · US 2.29% | 0.2%#50 of 50 | 0.5%#40 of 50 | -0.3 pts | 2.29% | Even |
| Workers working from homeGap +0.9 pts · US 12.28% | 8%#47 of 50 | 7.1%#49 of 50 | +0.9 pts | 12.28% | SD |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +0.6 pts · US 92.67% | 91.3%#40 of 50 | 90.7%#44 of 50 | +0.6 pts | 92.67% | SD |
| Households moving inIRSGap +2,205 (+16%) · US 78,682 | 15,986#46 of 50 | 13,781#48 of 50 | +2,205+16% | 78,682 | SD |
| Households moving outIRSGap +620 (+4%) · US 78,715 | 14,447#4 of 50 | 13,827#3 of 50 | +620+4% | 78,715 | ND |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +1,585 · US -33 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -46#28 of 50 | +1,585 | -33 | SD |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.7 · US +0.4 | +1.6#14 of 50 | -0.1#28 of 50 | +1.7 | +0.4 | SD |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$19,147 (+35%) · US $77,690 | $73,743#31 of 50 | $54,596#50 of 50 | +$19,147+35% | $77,690 | SD |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap -$912 (-1%) · US $77,024 | $63,892#44 of 50 | $64,804#42 of 50 | -$912-1% | $77,024 | Even |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap +1.7 · US +1.1 | +2.3#17 of 50 | +0.6#29 of 50 | +1.7 | +1.1 | SD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap +$4,678 · US -$11,758 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$1,122#11 of 50 | +$4,678 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$1,117 · US +$31,418 | +$35,354#15 of 50 | +$36,471#9 of 50 | -$1,117 | +$31,418 | ND |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$1,550 · US +$35,970 | +$39,353#17 of 50 | +$40,903#10 of 50 | -$1,550 | +$35,970 | ND |
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 South Dakota and North Dakota numbers say when read together.
South Dakota ranks higher overall
South Dakota leads 5 of the 11 categories to North Dakota's 2, with 4 even; North Dakota is ahead on health and education. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, South Dakota is ahead on 18 and North Dakota on 19.
Everyday costs are about the same
The cost of living index is 88.6 in South Dakota and 89 in North Dakota, inside the 2-point band this site treats as even. Typical home values are $321,574 and $292,293. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$3,556 a year after typical costs in South Dakota and -$1,122 in North Dakota.
Tax burdens are close
South Dakota collects 6.46% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack); North Dakota collects 6.61% (low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
North Dakota is safer
Median household income is $76,881 in South Dakota and $77,871 in North Dakota, with unemployment at 2.1% and 2.6%. Violent crime runs 308 per 100,000 residents in South Dakota and 257 in North Dakota.
Moves between the two run about even
1,205 people moved from South Dakota to North Dakota and 1,850 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
Families and retirees: a split decision
For families, South Dakota ranks #6 of 50 and North Dakota #5; for retirees, South Dakota ranks #3 and North Dakota #4.
South Dakota vs North Dakota: frequently asked questions
Is South Dakota or North Dakota better to live in?
South Dakota ranks #3 of 50 overall and North Dakota #5 as of the latest release. They cost about the same to live in (cost of living index 88.6 vs 89); South Dakota has no income tax and has a 17% higher violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 5 of 11 categories to 2.
Is South Dakota cheaper than North Dakota?
South Dakota and North Dakota cost about the same to live in: cost of living index 88.6 vs 89 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have +$3,556 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in South Dakota, and -$1,122 in North Dakota. The typical home value is $321,574 in South Dakota and $292,293 in North Dakota.
Which has lower taxes, South Dakota or North Dakota?
South Dakota and North Dakota have similar tax burdens: 6.46% vs 6.61% of income in state and local taxes. South Dakota's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.14% and its combined sales tax 6.11%; North Dakota's are 2.5%, 0.99% and 7.09%.
Is South Dakota safer than North Dakota?
North Dakota is safer: 257 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 308 in South Dakota, per the FBI. South Dakota ranks #28 of 50 for violent crime and North Dakota #22. Property crime is 1,312 per 100,000 in South Dakota and 1,698 in North Dakota. North Dakota shows the FBI's prior-year estimate because the FBI flags its latest year as based on limited data. The safest tracked cities are Brandon, SD, and Lincoln, ND.
Are homes more expensive in South Dakota or North Dakota?
Homes are 10% more expensive in South Dakota: the typical home value is $321,574 in South Dakota and $292,293 in North Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $90,326 of household income in South Dakota and $79,542 in North Dakota, against median incomes of $76,881 and $77,871.
Do people earn more in South Dakota or North Dakota?
South Dakota and North Dakota pay about the same: median household income is $76,881 vs $77,871, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 2.1% in South Dakota and 2.6% in North Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, South Dakota's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 2 after adjusting for local costs and North Dakota's in 10, with 8 even.
Are more people moving from South Dakota to North Dakota or from North Dakota to South Dakota?
656 households moved from South Dakota to North Dakota and 676 moved from North Dakota to South Dakota in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 20 households for South Dakota. Movers to North Dakota reported an average income of $54,006; movers to South Dakota reported $64,114. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 1,205 people (±613) moving from South Dakota to North Dakota and 1,850 (±1,046) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, South Dakota or North Dakota?
South Dakota and North Dakota are close for retirees: #3 and #4 of 50 on the retiree index. South Dakota has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack; North Dakota has low income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,353 left after typical costs in South Dakota and +$40,903 in North Dakota.
Which is better for families, South Dakota or North Dakota?
South Dakota and North Dakota are close for families: #6 and #5 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $8,859 a year in South Dakota and $12,281 in North Dakota. High school graduation rates are 82.1% and 85.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps +$3,556 after typical costs in South Dakota and -$1,122 in North Dakota.
Is North Dakota better than South Dakota?
No: South Dakota ranks higher than North Dakota overall, #3 of 50 vs #5, with a composite score of 79.3 to 75.5. South Dakota leads 5 of 11 categories and North Dakota leads 2, including health and education. 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.