Wisconsin vs South Dakota: Which Is Better to Live In?
Wisconsin ranks #11 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 94.1), has no income tax, and has a 22% higher violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
- Center-based infant care, per year is 52% lower in South Dakota ($8,859 vs. $18,604 in Wisconsin).
- Residential electricity price is 26% lower in South Dakota (13.38¢/kWh vs. 18.16¢/kWh in Wisconsin).
- Property crime rate is 23% lower in Wisconsin (1,017 vs. 1,312 in South Dakota).
| Measure | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | GapWI−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall scorecomposite of 100, rank of 50Gap -8.7 pts | 70.6#11 of 50 · B+ | 79.3#3 of 50 · A+ | -8.7 pts | — | SD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.5 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 94.1#20 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +5.5 pts+6% | 100 | SD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$24,553 · US -$11,758 | -$20,997#32 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$24,553 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$18,125 (+6%) · US $368,697 | $339,699#25 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$18,125+6% | $368,697 | SD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.85 pts · US 8.74% | 8.31%#19 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +1.85 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -67 (-22%) · US 328 | 240#18 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | -67-22% | 328 | WI |
| Median household incomeGap +$607 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $77,488#28 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$607+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +8.2 pts · US 85.62% | 90.3%#3 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +8.2 pts | 85.62% | WI |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.1#16 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | WI |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,023 · US -33 | +516#24 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -1,023 | -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 Wisconsin or South Dakota better to live in?
South Dakota scores higher overall: 79.3 to 70.6 out of 100, #3 of 50 against #11. Wisconsin leads 3 of 11 categories, South Dakota leads 7, and 1 are within 3 points.
| Category | Weight | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | Gap | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy15% of scoregap -15.2 | 15% | 54.8#13 · B+ | 70.0#3 · A+ | -15.2 pts | SD |
| Safety12% of scoregap +9.8 | 12% | 81.6#8 · A | 71.8#25 · B | +9.8 pts | WI |
| Health12% of scoregap +8.8 | 12% | 60.5#18 · B+ | 51.7#28 · C+ | +8.8 pts | WI |
| Education12% of scoregap +15.9 | 12% | 76.5#4 · A+ | 60.6#25 · B | +15.9 pts | WI |
| Affordability10% of scoregap -14.9 | 10% | 69.8#25 · B | 84.7#8 · A | -14.9 pts | SD |
| Fiscal Health8% of scoregap -12.7 | 8% | 63.6#18 · B+ | 76.3#2 · A+ | -12.7 pts | SD |
| Growth7% of scoregap -20.3 | 7% | 40.0#26 · B | 60.3#4 · A+ | -20.3 pts | SD |
| Transportation7% of scoregap -2.1 | 7% | 52.3#22 · B | 54.4#15 · B+ | -2.1 pts | Even |
| Livability7% of scoregap -6.3 | 7% | 35.9#18 · B+ | 42.2#12 · B+ | -6.3 pts | SD |
| Outdoor Access6% of scoregap -21.9 | 6% | 23.9#25 · B | 45.8#7 · A | -21.9 pts | SD |
| Environment4% of scoregap -12.7 | 4% | 40.6#26 · B | 53.3#11 · B+ | -12.7 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 Wisconsin cheaper than South Dakota?
South Dakota is cheaper: cost of living index 88.6 vs 94.1 in Wisconsin (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 keeps $24,553 more a year in South Dakota after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes.
| Measure | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | GapWI−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.5 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 94.1#20 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +5.5 pts+6% | 100 | SD |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.2 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 94.3#8 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | -1.2 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.78¢ (+36%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 18.16¢/kWh#36 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | +4.78¢+36% | 17.84¢/kWh | SD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.88 (+9%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.74/Mcf#8 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | +$0.88+9% | $15.83/Mcf | SD |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.05 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.28/gal#30 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | +$0.05+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$9,745 (+110%) · US $15,633 | $18,604#36 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$9,745+110% | $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 | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | GapWI−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Adultearning $75,000Gap -$4,704 | +$30,650costs $44,350 | +$35,354costs $39,647 | -$4,704 | SD |
| Couple, No Kidsearning $75,000Gap -$4,522 | +$22,095costs $52,904 | +$26,617costs $48,383 | -$4,522 | SD |
| Family of 4earning $75,000Gap -$24,553 | -$20,997costs $95,997 | +$3,556costs $71,445 | -$24,553 | SD |
| Retiree Coupleearning $75,000Gap -$4,198 | +$35,155costs $39,845 | +$39,353costs $35,647 | -$4,198 | SD |
Income left after housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and state and local taxes for four household types earning $75,000, from the affordability engine. Negative means typical costs exceed take-home pay.
| Measure | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | GapWI−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HousingGap +$2,835 | $26,014 | $23,179 | +$2,835 | SD |
| ChildcareGap +$19,490 | $37,208 | $17,718 | +$19,490 | SD |
| UtilitiesGap +$264 | $4,517 | $4,253 | +$264 | Even |
| GroceriesGap -$135 | $10,621 | $10,756 | -$135 | Even |
| TransportationGap +$158 | $10,309 | $10,151 | +$158 | Even |
| State and local taxesGap +$1,940 | $7,328 | $5,388 | +$1,940 | SD |
Annual cost lines for a family of four (two adults, two children). Lower is ahead.
Which has lower taxes, Wisconsin or South Dakota?
South Dakota collects a smaller share of income in state and local taxes: 6.46% vs 8.31%. Wisconsin has high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax; South Dakota has no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack.
| Measure | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | GapWI−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.85 pts · US 8.74% | 8.31%#19 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +1.85 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +7.65 pts · US 5.46% | 7.65%#40 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | +7.65 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.45 pts · US 1.02% | 1.59%#43 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | +0.45 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.39 pts · US 6.66% | 5.72%#9 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | -0.39 pts | 6.66% | Even |
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 Wisconsin or South Dakota?
Homes cost 6% more in Wisconsin: a typical home value of $339,699 in Wisconsin vs $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $95,433 of income in Wisconsin and $90,326 in South Dakota; the median household earns $77,488 and $76,881.
| Measure | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | GapWI−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$18,125 (+6%) · US $368,697 | $339,699#25 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$18,125+6% | $368,697 | SD |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.1%#5 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | +2.6 pts | +1.2% | WI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$274 (+21%) · US $1,948 | $1,563#19 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$274+21% | $1,948 | SD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$5,107 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $95,433#25 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | +$5,107+6% | $100,006 | SD |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.2x (+5%) · US 4.6x | 4.4x#25 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | +0.2x+5% | 4.6x | SD |
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.
| WI | SD | |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly payment, 20% down | $1,748 | $1,654 |
| Income needed vs. median | +23% | +18% |
| Five-year change | +31.1% | +24.2% |
| Market temperature | Warm | Cool |
| Largest metro | Milwaukee | 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 Wisconsin or South Dakota?
Median household income is about the same, $77,488 in Wisconsin and $76,881 in South Dakota, with unemployment at 3.2% and 2.1%. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Wisconsin's best-paying metro comes out ahead in 20 after adjusting for local costs and South Dakota's in 0.
| Measure | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | GapWI−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Median household incomeGap +$607 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $77,488#28 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$607+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.2%#8 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| GDP per capitaGap -$4,977 (-8%) · US $64,333 | $59,815#30 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | -$4,977-8% | $64,333 | SD |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#32 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Population growthGap -0.6 pts · US +0.51% | +0.26%#36 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +0.51% | SD |
Median household income from the Census Bureau ACS; unemployment from BLS LAUS; GDP per capita and real GDP growth from the BEA; population growth from Census Bureau estimates.
Show all 20 occupations
| Occupation | WI | SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $235,570$219,080 in Madison | $202,091$177,840 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $112,575$104,695 in Madison | $93,043$81,878 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Software Developers | $143,200$133,176 in Milwaukee | $124,314$109,396 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| General & Operations Managers | $108,261$100,683 in Madison | $90,123$79,308 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Lawyers | $159,830$148,642 in Milwaukee | $141,728$124,721 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Civil Engineers | $105,622$98,228 in Madison | $88,719$78,073 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Registered Nurses | $93,505$86,960 in Milwaukee | $79,282$69,768 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Accountants & Auditors | $88,282$82,102 in Madison | $76,534$67,350 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Heavy & Tractor-Trailer Truck Drivers | $59,692$55,514 in Milwaukee | $48,506$42,685 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Electricians | $66,432$61,782 in Milwaukee | $55,802$49,106 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Police & Sheriff's Patrol Officers | $80,384$74,757 in Madison | $70,181$61,759 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Dietitians & Nutritionists | $72,169$67,117 in Madison | $62,577$55,068 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) | $61,763$57,440 in Madison | $53,188$46,805 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Mental Health Counselors | $57,405$53,387 in Milwaukee | $48,902$43,034 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Welders, Cutters & Brazers | $52,176$48,524 in Milwaukee | $43,748$38,498 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Secondary School Teachers | $71,514$66,508 in Madison | $63,716$56,070 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Sales Representatives (Wholesale/Manufacturing) | $70,619$65,676 in Madison | $63,552$55,926 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| HVAC Mechanics & Installers | $60,992$56,723 in Madison | $55,730$49,042 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Construction Laborers | $44,939$41,793 in Madison | $40,411$35,562 in Sioux Falls | WI |
| Cooks, Restaurant | $36,595$34,033 in Milwaukee | $32,119$28,265 in Sioux Falls | WI |
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 Wisconsin safer than South Dakota?
Wisconsin is safer: 240 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 308 in South Dakota (FBI). Property crime runs 1,017 and 1,312 per 100,000.
| Measure | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | GapWI−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -67 (-22%) · US 328 | 240#18 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | -67-22% | 328 | WI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -296 (-23%) · US 1,535 | 1,017#5 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | -296-23% | 1,535 | WI |
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.
- New Berlin, WI47 violent per 100K
- Brandon, SD46 violent per 100K
Among each state's 20 tracked cities, latest FBI release.
Which has better schools and health, Wisconsin or South Dakota?
Wisconsin scores higher for education (#4 of 50 vs #25), with high school graduation rates of 90.3% and 82.1%. Wisconsin scores higher for health (#18 vs #28); life expectancy is 78.1 years in Wisconsin and 77.3 in South Dakota.
| Measure | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | GapWI−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 273 | 283#2 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | +2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 257 | 260#13 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | +0 | 257 | Even |
| High school graduation rateGap +8.2 pts · US 85.62% | 90.3%#3 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +8.2 pts | 85.62% | WI |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.1#16 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | WI |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.4 pts · US 34.03% | 37.4%#41 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.8 pts · US 7.6% | 5.3%#10 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 7.6% | WI |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+6%) · US 38.8 | 37#16 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | +2 pts+6% | 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).
- Brookfield, WIeducation 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: Wisconsin #4, South Dakota #25. Health: Wisconsin #18, South Dakota #28.
Are more people moving from Wisconsin to South Dakota, or from South Dakota to Wisconsin?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 232 people (±251) moving from Wisconsin to South Dakota and 1,354 (±1,155) 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 | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | GapWI−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Households moving inIRSGap +40,689 (+255%) | 56,675#24 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +40,689+255% | WI |
| Households moving outIRSGap +41,712 (+289%) | 56,159#26 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +41,712+289% | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,023 | +516#24 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -1,023 | SD |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.5 | +0.1#25 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | -1.5 | SD |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$1,370 (-2%) | $72,373#32 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | -$1,370-2% | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,494 (+16%) | $74,386#24 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$10,494+16% | WI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.1 | +1.2#23 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | -1.1 | 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, Wisconsin or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for retirees, remote workers, young professionals, small business, and outdoor enthusiasts; 1 of the six lifestyle indexes are within 4 places. Each index re-weights the same 11 category scores for one kind of household.
| Measure | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | GapWI−SD | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FamiliesGap -2 places | #4score 81.6 | #6score 81 | -2 places | Even |
| RetireesGap +10 places | #13score 72.5 | #3score 82.8 | +10 places | SD |
| Remote WorkersGap +10 places | #12score 59.9 | #2score 83.3 | +10 places | SD |
| Young ProfessionalsGap +11 places | #12score 63.5 | #1score 81.7 | +11 places | SD |
| Small BusinessGap +10 places | #11score 68.2 | #1score 87.4 | +10 places | SD |
| Outdoor EnthusiastsGap +14 places | #22score 50.4 | #8score 68.2 | +14 places | SD |
Rank of 50 on each lifestyle index. A state is called ahead when the ranks are at least 4 places apart.
- FamiliesEven (#4 vs #6)
- RetireesSouth Dakota (#3 vs #13)
- Remote WorkersSouth Dakota (#2 vs #12)
- Young ProfessionalsSouth Dakota (#1 vs #12)
- Small BusinessSouth Dakota (#1 vs #11)
- Outdoor EnthusiastsSouth Dakota (#8 vs #22)
Which cities stand out in Wisconsin and South Dakota?
Wisconsin has 20 tracked cities and South Dakota has 20; the largest are Milwaukee and Sioux Falls. The table picks the best city in each state for one purpose at a time.
| Best for | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD |
|---|---|---|
| Largest citypopulation | Milwaukee566,973 people | Sioux Falls201,469 people |
| Highest composite scorecomposite score | Brookfieldscore 71.8 | Brandonscore 70 |
| Safest cityviolent crime per 100,000 | New Berlin47 violent per 100K | Brandon46 violent per 100K |
| Cheapest citycost of living index | Fond du Laccost index 91.6 | Dakota Dunescost index 86.5 |
| Most walkableEPA walkability index, 1 to 20 | West Alliswalkability 14.6 of 20 | Sioux Fallswalkability 12.1 of 20 |
| Cleanest airmedian air quality index, county | Wausaucounty median AQI 36 | Pierrecounty median AQI 18 |
| Best schoolsgraduation rate, % | Brookfield98% graduation rate | Brandon98% graduation rate |
| Richest citymedian household income | Brookfieldmedian income $129,548 | Dakota Dunesmedian income $136,125 |
| Fastest growingpopulation growth, % | Menomonee Falls+1.8% growth | Tea+4.1% growth |
Among the 20 tracked cities in each state. Census ACS, FBI, NCES and BEA data, latest releases.
How do Wisconsin and South Dakota compare on everything else?
State finances, environment, and getting around. Wisconsin carries AA credit rating and South Dakota AAA.
Show fiscal, environment and commuting tables
| Measure | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | GapWI−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Renewable share of electricityGap -67 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#31 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -67 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -40.7 (-62%) · US 29.6 | 25.4#23 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -40.7-62% | 29.6 | WI |
| Public land shareGap +0.4 pts · US 17.16% | 5.8%#32 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.2 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#10 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +4.2 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1.4%#20 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 2.29% | WI |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.8 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#27 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +3.8 pts | 12.28% | WI |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.3%#32 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | +1 pts | 92.67% | WI |
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 | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | GapWI−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#30 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | SD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.7 pts · US 12.39% | 8.2%#36 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 12.39% | SD |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 100%#2 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap +$520 (+22%) · US $3,506 | $2,860#25 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | +$520+22% | $3,506 | SD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US +4.66% | +5.8%#16 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | -2 pts | +4.66% | SD |
Credit rating index (S&P / Moody's; Wisconsin AA, 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).
Wisconsin 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. Wisconsin is ahead on 11 of 51, South Dakota on 26, and 14 are even.
Show all 54 metrics
| Measure | WisconsinWI | South DakotaSD | GapWI−SD | US | Ahead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PopulationGap +5,037,693 (+539%) · US 6.8 million | 6 million#21 of 50 | 935,094#46 of 50 | +5,037,693+539% | 6.8 million | WI |
| Median household incomeGap +$607 (+1%) · US $80,903 | $77,488#28 of 50 | $76,881#29 of 50 | +$607+1% | $80,903 | Even |
| Unemployment rateGap +1.1 pts · US 3.95% | 3.2%#8 of 50 | 2.1%#1 of 50 | +1.1 pts | 3.95% | SD |
| Population growthGap -0.6 pts · US +0.51% | +0.26%#36 of 50 | +0.86%#12 of 50 | -0.6 pts | +0.51% | SD |
| GDP per capitaGap -$4,977 (-8%) · US $64,333 | $59,815#30 of 50 | $64,792#19 of 50 | -$4,977-8% | $64,333 | SD |
| Real GDP growthGap +0.3 pts · US +1.91% | +1.6%#32 of 50 | +1.3%#41 of 50 | +0.3 pts | +1.91% | Even |
| Violent crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -67 (-22%) · US 328 | 240#18 of 50 | 308#28 of 50 | -67-22% | 328 | WI |
| Property crime per 100,000per 100,000 residentsGap -296 (-23%) · US 1,535 | 1,017#5 of 50 | 1,312#16 of 50 | -296-23% | 1,535 | WI |
| High school graduation rateGap +8.2 pts · US 85.62% | 90.3%#3 of 50 | 82.1%#41 of 50 | +8.2 pts | 85.62% | WI |
| NAEP math score, grade 4Gap -1 · US 237 | 239#14 of 50 | 240#11 of 50 | -1 | 237 | Even |
| NAEP math score, grade 8Gap +2 · US 273 | 283#2 of 50 | 281#6 of 50 | +2 | 273 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 4Gap +1 · US 214 | 215#22 of 50 | 214#30 of 50 | +1 | 214 | Even |
| NAEP reading score, grade 8Gap +0 · US 257 | 260#13 of 50 | 260#16 of 50 | +0 | 257 | Even |
| Life expectancyGap +0.8 yrs · US 76.9 | 78.1#16 of 50 | 77.3#24 of 50 | +0.8 yrs | 76.9 | WI |
| Adults with obesityGap +0.4 pts · US 34.03% | 37.4%#41 of 50 | 37%#39 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 34.03% | Even |
| Residents without health insuranceGap -2.8 pts · US 7.6% | 5.3%#10 of 50 | 8.1%#31 of 50 | -2.8 pts | 7.6% | WI |
| Typical home valuetypical home, modeled estimateGap +$18,125 (+6%) · US $368,697 | $339,699#25 of 50 | $321,574#21 of 50 | +$18,125+6% | $368,697 | SD |
| Home value change, one yearGap +2.6 pts · US +1.2% | +5.1%#5 of 50 | +2.5%#20 of 50 | +2.6 pts | +1.2% | WI |
| Typical rent, largest metrolargest metro, per monthGap +$274 (+21%) · US $1,948 | $1,563#19 of 50 | $1,289#5 of 50 | +$274+21% | $1,948 | SD |
| Income needed to buyto buy the typical homeGap +$5,107 (+6%) · US $100,006 | $95,433#25 of 50 | $90,326#22 of 50 | +$5,107+6% | $100,006 | SD |
| Cost of living indexUS = 100Gap +5.5 pts (+6%) · US 100 | 94.1#20 of 50 | 88.6#6 of 50 | +5.5 pts+6% | 100 | SD |
| Home value to income ratioGap +0.2x (+5%) · US 4.6x | 4.4x#25 of 50 | 4.2x#21 of 50 | +0.2x+5% | 4.6x | SD |
| Residential electricity priceGap +4.78¢ (+36%) · US 17.84¢/kWh | 18.16¢/kWh#36 of 50 | 13.38¢/kWh#14 of 50 | +4.78¢+36% | 17.84¢/kWh | SD |
| Residential natural gas priceGap +$0.88 (+9%) · US $15.83/Mcf | $10.74/Mcf#8 of 50 | $9.86/Mcf#5 of 50 | +$0.88+9% | $15.83/Mcf | SD |
| Gasoline priceGap +$0.05 (+2%) · US $3.32/gal | $3.28/gal#30 of 50 | $3.23/gal#27 of 50 | +$0.05+2% | $3.32/gal | Even |
| Price level for goodsUS = 100Gap -1.2 pts (-1%) · US 100 | 94.3#8 of 50 | 95.5#11 of 50 | -1.2 pts-1% | 100 | Even |
| Center-based infant care, per yearGap +$9,745 (+110%) · US $15,633 | $18,604#36 of 50 | $8,859#2 of 50 | +$9,745+110% | $15,633 | SD |
| Total state and local tax burdenshare of incomeGap +1.85 pts · US 8.74% | 8.31%#19 of 50 | 6.46%#5 of 50 | +1.85 pts | 8.74% | SD |
| Top state income tax ratetop rateGap +7.65 pts · US 5.46% | 7.65%#40 of 50 | none#3 of 50 | +7.65 pts | 5.46% | SD |
| Effective property tax rateeffective rateGap +0.45 pts · US 1.02% | 1.59%#43 of 50 | 1.14%#32 of 50 | +0.45 pts | 1.02% | Even |
| Combined state and local sales taxstate + localGap -0.39 pts · US 6.66% | 5.72%#9 of 50 | 6.11%#15 of 50 | -0.39 pts | 6.66% | Even |
| Credit ratingindex, 100 = AAAGap -10 pts · US 92.7 | 90#30 of 50 | 100#2 of 50 | -10 pts | 92.7 | SD |
| Rainy-day fund, share of spendingGap -4.7 pts · US 12.39% | 8.2%#36 of 50 | 12.9%#16 of 50 | -4.7 pts | 12.39% | SD |
| Pension funded ratioGap 0 pts · US 74.3% | 100%#2 of 50 | 100%#1 of 50 | 0 pts | 74.3% | Even |
| State debt per capitaGap +$520 (+22%) · US $3,506 | $2,860#25 of 50 | $2,340#16 of 50 | +$520+22% | $3,506 | SD |
| Budget balance, share of spendingGap -2 pts · US +4.66% | +5.8%#16 of 50 | +7.8%#7 of 50 | -2 pts | +4.66% | SD |
| Median air quality indexmedian AQI, lower is cleanerGap +2 pts (+6%) · US 38.8 | 37#16 of 50 | 35#11 of 50 | +2 pts+6% | 38.8 | SD |
| Renewable share of electricityGap -67 pts · US 29.34% | 13%#31 of 50 | 80%#2 of 50 | -67 pts | 29.34% | SD |
| FEMA natural disaster risk indexFEMA index, lower is saferGap -40.7 (-62%) · US 29.6 | 25.4#23 of 50 | 66.1#49 of 50 | -40.7-62% | 29.6 | WI |
| Public land shareGap +0.4 pts · US 17.16% | 5.8%#32 of 50 | 5.4%#34 of 50 | +0.4 pts | 17.16% | Even |
| Mean travel time to workGap +4.2 min · US 25.2 min | 22.7 min#10 of 50 | 18.5 min#2 of 50 | +4.2 min | 25.2 min | SD |
| Commuters using public transitGap +1.2 pts · US 2.29% | 1.4%#20 of 50 | 0.2%#50 of 50 | +1.2 pts | 2.29% | WI |
| Workers working from homeGap +3.8 pts · US 12.28% | 11.8%#27 of 50 | 8%#47 of 50 | +3.8 pts | 12.28% | WI |
| Households with a broadband subscriptionGap +1 pts · US 92.67% | 92.3%#32 of 50 | 91.3%#40 of 50 | +1 pts | 92.67% | WI |
| Households moving inIRSGap +40,689 (+255%) · US 78,682 | 56,675#24 of 50 | 15,986#46 of 50 | +40,689+255% | 78,682 | WI |
| Households moving outIRSGap +41,712 (+289%) · US 78,715 | 56,159#26 of 50 | 14,447#4 of 50 | +41,712+289% | 78,715 | SD |
| Net householdsIRS, householdsGap -1,023 · US -33 | +516#24 of 50 | +1,539#22 of 50 | -1,023 | -33 | SD |
| Net households per 1,000 residentsIRS, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.5 · US +0.4 | +0.1#25 of 50 | +1.6#14 of 50 | -1.5 | +0.4 | SD |
| Average income of arriving householdsIRSGap -$1,370 (-2%) · US $77,690 | $72,373#32 of 50 | $73,743#31 of 50 | -$1,370-2% | $77,690 | Even |
| Average income of departing householdsIRSGap +$10,494 (+16%) · US $77,024 | $74,386#24 of 50 | $63,892#44 of 50 | +$10,494+16% | $77,024 | WI |
| Net domestic migration per 1,000 residentsCensus, per 1,000 residentsGap -1.1 · US +1.1 | +1.2#23 of 50 | +2.3#17 of 50 | -1.1 | +1.1 | SD |
| Left after costs, family of fourearning $75K a yearGap -$24,553 · US -$11,758 | -$20,997#32 of 50 | +$3,556#7 of 50 | -$24,553 | -$11,758 | SD |
| Left after costs, single adultearning $75K a yearGap -$4,704 · US +$31,418 | +$30,650#26 of 50 | +$35,354#15 of 50 | -$4,704 | +$31,418 | SD |
| Left after costs, retiree coupleearning $75K a yearGap -$4,198 · US +$35,970 | +$35,155#26 of 50 | +$39,353#17 of 50 | -$4,198 | +$35,970 | SD |
Every metric in the registry, direction-aware: ahead means better for a resident. Ranks are among the states with data. Sources are listed at the foot of the page.
Key takeaways
What the Wisconsin and South Dakota numbers say when read together.
South Dakota ranks higher overall
South Dakota leads 7 of the 11 categories to Wisconsin's 3, with 1 even; Wisconsin is ahead on education and safety. Across all 51 measures with data on both sides, Wisconsin is ahead on 11 and South Dakota on 26.
South Dakota is cheaper day to day
South Dakota's cost of living index is 88.6 against 94.1 in Wisconsin (US = 100). The typical home costs $339,699 in Wisconsin and $321,574 in South Dakota. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$20,997 a year after typical costs in Wisconsin and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
South Dakota takes a smaller share in taxes
Wisconsin collects 8.31% of income in state and local taxes (high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax); South Dakota collects 6.46% (no income tax, with property and sales taxes in the middle of the pack).
Wisconsin is safer
Median household income is $77,488 in Wisconsin and $76,881 in South Dakota, with unemployment at 3.2% and 2.1%. Violent crime runs 240 per 100,000 residents in Wisconsin and 308 in South Dakota.
Moves between the two run about even
232 people moved from Wisconsin to South Dakota and 1,354 the other way, a gap inside the survey's margin of error.
South Dakota is the better fit for retirees
For families, Wisconsin ranks #4 of 50 and South Dakota #6; for retirees, Wisconsin ranks #13 and South Dakota #3.
Wisconsin vs South Dakota: frequently asked questions
Is Wisconsin or South Dakota better to live in?
Wisconsin ranks #11 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 94.1), has no income tax, and has a 22% higher violent crime rate. South Dakota scores higher overall, leading 7 of 11 categories to 3.
Is Wisconsin cheaper than South Dakota?
South Dakota is cheaper than Wisconsin: cost of living index 88.6 vs 94.1 (US = 100). A family of four earning $75,000 would have -$20,997 left after typical housing, childcare, utilities, groceries, transportation and taxes in Wisconsin, and +$3,556 in South Dakota. The typical home value is $339,699 in Wisconsin and $321,574 in South Dakota.
Which has lower taxes, Wisconsin or South Dakota?
South Dakota has the lower tax burden: 6.46% of income in state and local taxes vs 8.31% in Wisconsin. Wisconsin's top income tax rate is 7.65%, its effective property tax rate 1.59% and its combined sales tax 5.72%; South Dakota's are zero, 1.14% and 6.11%.
Is Wisconsin safer than South Dakota?
Wisconsin is safer: 240 violent crimes per 100,000 residents vs 308 in South Dakota, per the FBI. Wisconsin ranks #18 of 50 for violent crime and South Dakota #28. Property crime is 1,017 per 100,000 in Wisconsin and 1,312 in South Dakota. The safest tracked cities are New Berlin, WI, and Brandon, SD.
Are homes more expensive in Wisconsin or South Dakota?
Homes are 6% more expensive in Wisconsin: the typical home value is $339,699 in Wisconsin and $321,574 in South Dakota. Buying the typical home takes about $95,433 of household income in Wisconsin and $90,326 in South Dakota, against median incomes of $77,488 and $76,881.
Do people earn more in Wisconsin or South Dakota?
Wisconsin and South Dakota pay about the same: median household income is $77,488 vs $76,881, per the Census Bureau. Unemployment is 3.2% in Wisconsin and 2.1% in South Dakota. Across 20 occupations with BLS wage data in both states, Wisconsin'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 Wisconsin to South Dakota or from South Dakota to Wisconsin?
The Census Bureau's American Community Survey counts 232 people (±251) moving from Wisconsin to South Dakota and 1,354 (±1,155) the other way, a gap inside the margin of error, so the flows are roughly balanced.
Which is better for retirees, Wisconsin or South Dakota?
South Dakota is the better fit for retirees: #3 of 50 on the retiree index vs #13 for Wisconsin. Wisconsin has high income tax, high property tax, low sales tax; 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 +$35,155 left after typical costs in Wisconsin and +$39,353 in South Dakota.
Which is better for families, Wisconsin or South Dakota?
Wisconsin and South Dakota are close for families: #4 and #6 of 50 on the families index. Center-based infant care costs $18,604 a year in Wisconsin and $8,859 in South Dakota. High school graduation rates are 90.3% and 82.1%. A family of four on $75,000 keeps -$20,997 after typical costs in Wisconsin and +$3,556 in South Dakota.
Is South Dakota better than Wisconsin?
Yes: South Dakota ranks higher than Wisconsin overall, #3 of 50 vs #11, with a composite score of 79.3 to 70.6. South Dakota leads 7 of 11 categories and Wisconsin leads 3, including education and safety. Which is better for you depends on how you weigh cost, safety, schools, taxes and pay.
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