South Dakota
Category Breakdown
Scores by Category
South Dakota vs National Average
12-Month Composite Trend
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South Dakota Rankings Overview
South Dakota earns an overall grade of B+ with a composite score of 66 out of 100, ranking #15 among all 50 US states. The state's strongest category is Education (90/100) while its biggest challenge is Health (53/100).
Economy & Employment in South Dakota
With an unemployment rate of 2% (compared to the national average of 3.8%), South Dakota performs above average on economic indicators. The median household income is $72,280, which ranks below the national median of $74,753.
Safety & Crime in South Dakota
South Dakota's violent crime rate of 330 per 100,000 residents places it in the top half of states for public safety.
Health & Education in South Dakota
South Dakota ranks #24 for health outcomes according to the 2025 America's Health Rankings report, and #6 for K-12 education quality based on NAEP scores and graduation rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is South Dakota's overall ranking?
South Dakota ranks #15 out of 50 states with a composite score of 66/100 and a grade of B+.
Is South Dakota a good place to live?
South Dakota ranks among the top-performing states in America with a composite score of 66/100. Its strengths in areas like economic opportunity and public safety make it an attractive place to live for many residents.
What is the crime rate in South Dakota?
The violent crime rate in South Dakota is 330 per 100,000 residents (2024 FBI data), compared to the national average of 350 per 100,000.
How does South Dakota's economy compare?
South Dakota's median household income is $72,280 with an unemployment rate of 2%. The unemployment rate is below the national average of 3.8%, and the median income is below the national median of $74,753.
What are the best cities in South Dakota?
South Dakota's major metropolitan areas offer diverse options for residents.