Texas vs South Dakota: Which Is Better to Live In?
Texas ranks #32 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 97.1), has a 1.3-point lower tax burden, and has a 11% lower violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 10 of 11 categories to 0.
- Property crime rate is 27% lower in South Dakota (1,312 vs. 1,786 in Texas).
- Typical rent, largest metro is 22% lower in South Dakota ($1,289 vs. $1,659 in Texas).
- Center-based infant care, per year is 19% lower in South Dakota ($8,859 vs. $10,894 in Texas).
| Measure | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | GapTX−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -27.1 pts | 52.2#32 of 50 · C+ | 79.3#3 of 50 · A+ | -27.1 pts | — | SD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.5 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +8.5 pts+10% | 100 | SD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$3,700 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$3,700 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$22,207 (-7%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | -$22,207-7% | $368,697 | TX |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.31 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +1.31 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +37 (+12%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | +37+12% | 328 | SD |
| Median household incomeGap +$2,840 (+4%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$2,840+4% | $80,903 | TX |
| High school graduation rateGap +7.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +7.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +54,934 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | +54,934 | -33 | TX |
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 Texas or South Dakota better to live in?
South Dakota scores higher overall: 79.3 to 52.2 out of 100, #3 of 50 against #32. Texas leads 0 of 11 categories, South Dakota leads 10, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -27.5 | 15% | 42.5#32 · C+ | 70.0#3 · A+ | -27.5 pts | SD |
| Safety12% of scoregap -10 | 12% | 61.8#35 · C | 71.8#25 · B | -10 pts | SD |
| Health12% of scoregap -14 | 12% | 37.7#41 · C | 51.7#28 · C+ | -14 pts | SD |
| Education12% of scoregap +0.1 | 12% | 60.7#24 · B | 60.6#25 · B | +0.1 pts | Even |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -10.3 | 10% | 74.4#20 · B | 84.7#8 · A | -10.3 pts | SD |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -4.1 | 8% | 72.2#5 · A+ | 76.3#2 · A+ | -4.1 pts | SD |
| Growth7% of scoregap -8.6 | 7% | 51.7#9 · A | 60.3#4 · A+ | -8.6 pts | SD |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -10.7 | 7% | 43.7#38 · C | 54.4#15 · B+ | -10.7 pts | SD |
| Livability7% of scoregap -18.6 | 7% | 23.6#43 · D | 42.2#12 · B+ | -18.6 pts | SD |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -41.1 | 6% | 4.7#50 · F | 45.8#7 · A | -41.1 pts | SD |
| Environment4% of scoregap -12.5 | 4% | 40.8#25 · B | 53.3#11 · B+ | -12.5 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 Texas cheaper than South Dakota?
South Dakota is cheaper: cost of living index 88.6 vs 97.1 in Texas (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $3,700 more a year in South Dakota after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | GapTX−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.5 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +8.5 pts+10% | 100 | SD |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | SD |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.09¢ (+16%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | +2.09¢+16% | 17.84¢/kWh | SD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.56 (+97%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | +$9.56+97% | $15.83/Mcf | SD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.35 (-11%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | -$0.35-11% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,035 (+23%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$2,035+23% | $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 | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | GapTX−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap +$187 | +$35,541costs $39,459 | +$35,354costs $39,647 | +$187 | Even |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap +$377 | +$26,994costs $48,006 | +$26,617costs $48,383 | +$377 | Even |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$3,700 | -$144costs $75,145 | +$3,556costs $71,445 | -$3,700 | SD |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap +$153 | +$39,506costs $35,494 | +$39,353costs $35,647 | +$153 | 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 | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | GapTX−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap -$134 | $23,045 | $23,179 | -$134 | Even |
| ChildcareGap +$4,070 | $21,788 | $17,718 | +$4,070 | SD |
| UtilitiesGap +$408 | $4,661 | $4,253 | +$408 | Even |
| GroceriesGap +$293 | $11,049 | $10,756 | +$293 | Even |
| TransportationGap -$1,100 | $9,051 | $10,151 | -$1,100 | TX |
| State and local taxesGap +$163 | $5,551 | $5,388 | +$163 | Even |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or South Dakota?
South Dakota collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.46% vs 7.77%. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; South Dakota has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | GapTX−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.31 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +1.31 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.49 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | +0.49 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.09 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | +2.09 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 Texas or South Dakota?
Homes cost 7% more in South Dakota: a typical home value of $299,367 in Texas vs $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of income in Texas and $90,326 in South Dakota; the median household earns $79,721 and $76,881.
| Measure | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | GapTX−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$22,207 (-7%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | -$22,207-7% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.1 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | -4.1 pts | +1.2% | SD |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$370 (+29%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$370+29% | $1,948 | SD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$2,265 (-3%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | -$2,265-3% | $100,006 | Even |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-10%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | -0.4x-10% | 4.6x | TX |
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.
| TX | SD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,540 | $1,654 |
| Income needed vs. median | +11% | +18% |
| Five-year change | +11.1% | +24.2% |
| Market temperature | Cool | Cool |
| Largest metro | Dallas | 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 Texas or South Dakota?
Texas pays more: median household income $79,721 vs $76,881, with unemployment at 4.2% in Texas and 2.1% in South Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and South Dakota's in 0.
| Measure | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | GapTX−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$2,840 (+4%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$2,840+4% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,028 (+6%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | +$4,028+6% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +2.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | +2.5 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Population growthGap +0.39 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | +0.39 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 | TX | SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $254,682$247,042 in Dallas | $202,091$177,840 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Software Developers | $162,398$157,526 in Austin | $124,314$109,396 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| General & Operations Managers | $116,809$113,305 in Houston | $90,123$79,308 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Lawyers | $166,195$161,209 in Austin | $141,728$124,721 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Civil Engineers | $111,191$107,855 in Houston | $88,719$78,073 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $114,573$111,136 in Austin | $93,043$81,878 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $67,574$65,547 in Houston | $48,506$42,685 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Registered Nurses | $97,479$94,555 in Austin | $79,282$69,768 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $79,535$77,149 in Houston | $62,577$55,068 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Accountants & Auditors | $91,851$89,095 in Houston | $76,534$67,350 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Electricians | $70,287$68,178 in Austin | $55,802$49,106 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $82,647$80,168 in Houston | $70,181$61,759 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $75,335$73,075 in Austin | $63,552$55,926 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Secondary School Teachers | $75,412$73,150 in Austin | $63,716$56,070 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $54,440$52,807 in Houston | $43,748$38,498 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $63,209$61,313 in Austin | $53,188$46,805 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Mental Health Counselors | $58,474$56,720 in Houston | $48,902$43,034 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $64,425$62,492 in Austin | $55,730$49,042 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Construction Laborers | $48,596$47,138 in Dallas | $40,411$35,562 in Sioux Falls | TX |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $37,618$36,489 in Austin | $32,119$28,265 in Sioux Falls | TX |
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 Texas safer than South Dakota?
South Dakota is safer: 308 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 345 in Texas (FBI). Property crime runs 1,786 and 1,312 per 100,000.
| Measure | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | GapTX−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +37 (+12%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | +37+12% | 328 | SD |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +474 (+36%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | +474+36% | 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.
- Flower Mound, TX42 violent per 100K
- Brandon, SD46 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Texas or South Dakota?
Texas and South Dakota are close on education (#24 and #25 of 50), with high school graduation rates of 89.7% and 82.1%. South Dakota scores higher for health (#28 vs #41); life expectancy is 77.1 years in Texas and 77.3 in South Dakota.
| Measure | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | GapTX−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -12 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | -12 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | -8 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +7.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +7.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.4 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 34.03% | TX |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +8.6 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | +8.6 pts | 7.6% | SD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+23%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | +8 pts+23% | 38.8 | SD |
High school graduation rate from NCES; life expectancy from the CDC National Center for Health Statistics; median air quality index from EPA AirData (lower is cleaner).
- No city school data
- 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: Texas #24, South Dakota #25. Health: Texas #41, South Dakota #28.
Are more people moving from Texas to South Dakota, or from South Dakota to Texas?
817 households moved from Texas to South Dakota and 926 moved from South Dakota to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 109 households for Texas. Movers to South Dakota reported an average income of $74,332; movers to Texas reported $63,284. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 994 people (±556) moving from Texas to South Dakota and 2,425 (±2,090) 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 | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | GapTX−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +291,254 (+1,822%) | 307,240#2 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +291,254+1,822% | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +236,320 (+1,636%) | 250,767#47 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +236,320+1,636% | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +54,934 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | +54,934 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.2 | +1.8#12 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | +0.2 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$9,889 (+13%) | $83,632#14 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | +$9,889+13% | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$16,467 (+26%) | $80,359#15 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$16,467+26% | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.2 | +2.1#19 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | -0.2 | Even |
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, Texas 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 | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | GapTX−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap +29 places | #35score 57.5 | #6score 81 | +29 places | SD |
| RetireesGap +30 places | #33score 58.8 | #3score 82.8 | +30 places | SD |
| Remote WorkersGap +23 places | #25score 52 | #2score 83.3 | +23 places | SD |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +27 places | #28score 53 | #1score 81.7 | +27 places | SD |
| Small BusinessGap +14 places | #15score 64.3 | #1score 87.4 | +14 places | SD |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +37 places | #45score 26.6 | #8score 68.2 | +37 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 #35)
- RetireesSouth Dakota (#3 vs #33)
- Remote WorkersSouth Dakota (#2 vs #25)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Dakota (#1 vs #28)
- Small BusinessSouth Dakota (#1 vs #15)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsSouth Dakota (#8 vs #45)
Which cities stand out in Texas and South Dakota?
Texas has 74 tracked cities and South Dakota has 20; the largest are Houston and Sioux Falls. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | TexasTX | South DakotaSD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Houston2,328,253 people | Sioux Falls201,469 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Flower Moundscore 67.4 | Brandonscore 70 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | Flower Mound42 violent per 100K | Brandon46 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | McAllencost index 85.9 | Dakota Dunescost index 86.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | Richardsonwalkability 13 of 20 | Sioux Fallswalkability 12.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Amarillocounty median AQI 16 | Pierrecounty median AQI 18 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | — | Brandon98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Flower Moundmedian income $161,235 | Dakota Dunesmedian income $136,125 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Kyle+6.1% growth | Tea+4.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Texas and South Dakota compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Texas carries AAA credit rating and South Dakota AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | GapTX−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -43 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -43 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -42.1 (-64%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -42.1-64% | 29.6 | TX |
| Public land shareGap -3.6 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 17.16% | SD |
| Mean travel time to workGap +9 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +9 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 2.29% | TX |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.4 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 92.67% | TX |
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 | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | GapTX−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.9 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap -24 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | -24 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap -$490 (-21%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | -$490-21% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.6 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | -2.6 pts | +4.66% | SD |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Texas 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).
Texas 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. Texas is ahead on 17 of 51, South Dakota on 20, and 14 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | TexasTX | South DakotaSD | GapTX−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +30,774,727 (+3,291%) · US 6.8 million | 31.7 million#2 of 50 | 935,094#46 of 50 | +30,774,727+3,291% | 6.8 million | TX |
| Median household incomeGap +$2,840 (+4%) · US $80,903 | $79,721#24 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$2,840+4% | $80,903 | TX |
| Unemployment rateGap +2.1 pts · US 3.95% | 4.2%#30 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +2.1 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| Population growthGap +0.39 pts · US +0.51% | +1.25%#4 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | +0.39 pts | +0.51% | Even |
| GDP per capitaGap +$4,028 (+6%) · US $64,333 | $68,820#14 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | +$4,028+6% | $64,333 | TX |
| Real GDP growthGap +2.5 pts · US +1.91% | +3.8%#2 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | +2.5 pts | +1.91% | TX |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +37 (+12%) · US 328 | 345#31 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | +37+12% | 328 | SD |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap +474 (+36%) · US 1,535 | 1,786#39 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | +474+36% | 1,535 | SD |
| High school graduation rateGap +7.6 pts · US 85.62% | 89.7%#8 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +7.6 pts | 85.62% | TX |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 237 | 241#8 of 50 | 240#11 of 50 | +1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap -12 · US 273 | 269#34 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | -12 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap -2 · US 214 | 212#37 of 50 | 214#30 of 50 | -2 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap -8 · US 257 | 252#44 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | -8 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap -0.2 yrs · US 76.9 | 77.1#27 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | -0.2 yrs | 76.9 | Even |
| Adults with obesityGap -1.4 pts · US 34.03% | 35.6%#32 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | -1.4 pts | 34.03% | TX |
| Residents without health insuranceGap +8.6 pts · US 7.6% | 16.7%#50 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | +8.6 pts | 7.6% | SD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap -$22,207 (-7%) · US $368,697 | $299,367#18 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | -$22,207-7% | $368,697 | TX |
| Home value change, one yearGap -4.1 pts · US +1.2% | -1.6%#49 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | -4.1 pts | +1.2% | SD |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$370 (+29%) · US $1,948 | $1,659#23 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$370+29% | $1,948 | SD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap -$2,265 (-3%) · US $100,006 | $88,061#21 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | -$2,265-3% | $100,006 | Even |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +8.5 pts (+10%) · US 100 | 97.1#27 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +8.5 pts+10% | 100 | SD |
| Home value to income ratioGap -0.4x (-10%) · US 4.6x | 3.8x#18 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | -0.4x-10% | 4.6x | TX |
| Residential electricity priceGap +2.09¢ (+16%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 15.47¢/kWh#28 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | +2.09¢+16% | 17.84¢/kWh | SD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$9.56 (+97%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $19.42/Mcf#44 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | +$9.56+97% | $15.83/Mcf | SD |
| Gasoline priceGap -$0.35 (-11%) · US $3.32/gal | $2.88/gal#1 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | -$0.35-11% | $3.32/gal | TX |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap +2.6 pts (+3%) · US 100 | 98.1#34 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | +2.6 pts+3% | 100 | SD |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$2,035 (+23%) · US $15,633 | $10,894#8 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$2,035+23% | $15,633 | SD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.31 pts · US 8.74% | 7.77%#11 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +1.31 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap 0 pts · US 5.46% | none#7 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | 0 pts | 5.46% | Even |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.49 pts · US 1.02% | 1.63%#44 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | +0.49 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap +2.09 pts · US 6.66% | 8.2%#37 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | +2.09 pts | 6.66% | SD |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap 0 pts · US 92.7 | 100#15 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | 0 pts | 92.7 | Even |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap +4.9 pts · US 12.39% | 17.8%#6 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 12.39% | TX |
| Pension funded ratioGap -24 pts · US 74.3% | 76%#22 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | -24 pts | 74.3% | SD |
| State debt per capitaGap -$490 (-21%) · US $3,506 | $1,850#8 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | -$490-21% | $3,506 | TX |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2.6 pts · US +4.66% | +5.2%#22 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | -2.6 pts | +4.66% | SD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +8 pts (+23%) · US 38.8 | 43#40 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | +8 pts+23% | 38.8 | SD |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -43 pts · US 29.34% | 37%#15 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -43 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -42.1 (-64%) · US 29.6 | 24.0#21 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -42.1-64% | 29.6 | TX |
| Public land shareGap -3.6 pts · US 17.16% | 1.8%#45 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | -3.6 pts | 17.16% | SD |
| Mean travel time to workGap +9 min · US 25.2 min | 27.5 min#41 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +9 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +0.8 pts · US 2.29% | 1%#25 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +0.8 pts | 2.29% | TX |
| Workers working from homeGap +4.9 pts · US 12.28% | 12.9%#22 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +4.9 pts | 12.28% | TX |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +2.4 pts · US 92.67% | 93.7%#13 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | +2.4 pts | 92.67% | TX |
| Households moving inIRSGap +291,254 (+1,822%) · US 78,682 | 307,240#2 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +291,254+1,822% | 78,682 | TX |
| Households moving outIRSGap +236,320 (+1,636%) · US 78,715 | 250,767#47 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +236,320+1,636% | 78,715 | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap +54,934 · US -33 | +56,473#1 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | +54,934 | -33 | TX |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap +0.2 · US +0.4 | +1.8#12 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | +0.2 | +0.4 | Even |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap +$9,889 (+13%) · US $77,690 | $83,632#14 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | +$9,889+13% | $77,690 | TX |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$16,467 (+26%) · US $77,024 | $80,359#15 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$16,467+26% | $77,024 | TX |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -0.2 · US +1.1 | +2.1#19 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | -0.2 | +1.1 | Even |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$3,700 · US -$11,758 | -$144#9 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$3,700 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap +$187 · US +$31,418 | +$35,541#13 of 50 | +$35,354#15 of 50 | +$187 | +$31,418 | Even |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap +$153 · US +$35,970 | +$39,506#15 of 50 | +$39,353#17 of 50 | +$153 | +$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 Texas and South Dakota numbers say when read together.
South Dakota ranks higher overall
South Dakota leads 10 of the 11 categories to Texas's 0, with 1 even. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Texas is ahead on 17 and South Dakota on 20.
South Dakota is cheaper day to day
South Dakota's cost of living index is 88.6 against 97.1 in Texas (US = 100). The typical home costs $299,367 in Texas and $321,574 in South Dakota. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 a year after typical costs in Texas and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
South Dakota takes a smaller share in taxes
Texas collects 7.77% of income in state and local taxes (no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack); South Dakota collects 6.46% (no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Texas pays more
Median household income is $79,721 in Texas and $76,881 in South Dakota, with unemployment at 4.2% and 2.1%. Violent crime runs 345 per 100,000 residents in Texas and 308 in South Dakota.
Moves between the two run about even
994 people moved from Texas to South Dakota and 2,425 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
South Dakota fits families and retirees better
For families, Texas ranks #35 of 50 and South Dakota #6; for retirees, Texas ranks #33 and South Dakota #3.
Texas vs South Dakota: frequently asked questions
Is Texas or South Dakota better to live in?
Texas ranks #32 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 97.1), has a 1.3-point lower tax burden, and has a 11% lower violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 10 of 11 categories to 0.
Is Texas cheaper than South Dakota?
South Dakota is cheaper than Texas: cost of living index 88.6 vs 97.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$144 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Texas, and +$3,556 in South Dakota. The typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $321,574 in South Dakota.
Which has lower taxes, Texas or South Dakota?
South Dakota has the lower tax burden: 6.46% of income in state and local taxes vs 7.77% in Texas. Texas's top income tax rate is zero, its effective property tax rate 1.63% and its combined sales tax 8.2%; South Dakota's are zero, 1.14% and 6.11%.
Is Texas safer than South Dakota?
South Dakota is safer: 308 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 345 in Texas, per the FBI. Texas ranks #31 of 50 for violent crime and South Dakota #28. Property crime is 1,786 per 100,000 in Texas and 1,312 in South Dakota. The safest tracked cities are Flower Mound, TX, and Brandon, SD.
Are homes more expensive in Texas or South Dakota?
Homes are 7% more expensive in South Dakota: the typical home value is $299,367 in Texas and $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $88,061 of household income in Texas and $90,326 in South Dakota, against median incomes of $79,721 and $76,881.
Do people earn more in Texas or South Dakota?
Texas pays more: median household income is $79,721 vs $76,881 in South Dakota, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 4.2% in Texas and 2.1% in South Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Texas'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 Texas to South Dakota or from South Dakota to Texas?
817 households moved from Texas to South Dakota and 926 moved from South Dakota to Texas in the latest IRS release, a net gain of 109 households for Texas. Movers to South Dakota reported an average income of $74,332; movers to Texas reported $63,284. The Census Bureau's American Community Survey, counting people, shows 994 people (±556) moving from Texas to South Dakota and 2,425 (±2,090) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Texas or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for retirees: #3 of 50 on the retiree index vs #33 for Texas. Texas has no income tax, high property tax, with sales tax in the middle of the pack; South Dakota has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack. A retiree couple on $75,000 would have +$39,506 left after typical costs in Texas and +$39,353 in South Dakota.
Which is better for families, Texas or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for families: #6 of 50 on the families index vs #35 for Texas. Center-based infant care costs $10,894 a year in Texas and $8,859 in South Dakota. High school graduation rates are 89.7% and 82.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$144 after typical costs in Texas and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
Is South Dakota better than Texas?
Yes: South Dakota ranks higher than Texas overall, #3 of 50 vs #32, with a composite score of 79.3 to 52.2. South Dakota leads 10 of 11 categories and Texas leads 0. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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