South Dakota

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State Motto

Under God, the people rule

State Motto of South Dakota

South Dakota State Information

South Dakota is the 40th State in the Union

South Dakota, located in the northern part of the United States, is a state celebrated for its expansive natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The state's landscape is marked by the rugged Black Hills, the vast plains of the Great Plains, and the winding Missouri River. South Dakota is home to famous landmarks like Mount Rushmore, where the faces of four U.S. presidents are carved into the mountainside, and the Crazy Horse Memorial, which honors the Native American leader. With a deep connection to Native American history, South Dakota hosts several reservations, embracing the culture and traditions of its Indigenous peoples.

Agriculture is a cornerstone of South Dakota’s economy, with the state being a major producer of wheat, corn, and soybeans. Beyond farming, tourism plays an important role, drawing visitors to the state's national parks, including Badlands National Park, and its numerous outdoor activities. The state's cultural events and welcoming communities reflect its strong sense of tradition, making South Dakota an inviting destination for those interested in experiencing both American history and stunning natural landscapes.

State Nickname of South Dakota

South Dakota Geography

Download maps of South Dakota

South Dakota is known for its diverse and striking geography, which ranges from the vast prairies in the east to the rugged, mountainous terrain in the west. The eastern part of the state is dominated by rolling prairies, ideal for agriculture, where crops like wheat and corn are grown. In contrast, the western region is home to the Black Hills, a mountain range that offers breathtaking landscapes and abundant natural resources. Mount Rushmore, one of the most famous national monuments, is carved into the granite of the Black Hills, symbolizing the state's rich historical legacy.

The Missouri River, North America's longest river, runs through South Dakota, splitting the state into two distinct regions. Its fertile valleys and dramatic bluffs provide a picturesque backdrop and important agricultural land. Additionally, South Dakota is home to Badlands National Park, known for its striking geological formations. Whether it's the flat plains, the majestic Black Hills, or the scenic river valleys, South Dakota's geography offers a wide range of natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

South Dakota Economy

South Dakota’s economy is shaped by a diverse array of industries, with agriculture, healthcare, tourism, manufacturing, and retail trade at the forefront. Agriculture plays a pivotal role in the state’s economy, with major contributions from the production of corn, soybeans, wheat, and cattle. These agricultural products are essential to the state’s GDP and support a large portion of the workforce. The healthcare sector has also expanded significantly, with several major healthcare organizations and medical facilities operating throughout the state, providing both jobs and services to the community.

Tourism is another major economic driver in South Dakota, with iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore and the natural beauty of the Black Hills attracting millions of visitors annually. This influx of tourists supports local businesses, hospitality services, and retail trade. Manufacturing is another important contributor, particularly in food processing and machinery production, which helps ensure economic stability. Thanks to a low unemployment rate and a business-friendly environment, South Dakota continues to foster economic growth across its key sectors, making it an attractive place for both businesses and residents alike.

South Dakota at a Glance

Key facts about South Dakota covering taxes, cost of living, income, and climate.

Taxes

South Dakota has no state income tax, making it one of the most tax-friendly states for earners. Residents carry a moderate overall tax burden of 7.60% of income, and the combined state and local sales tax averages a low 6.10%.

Overall Tax Burden

Income Tax:	None
Overall Tax Burden:	7.60% of income
State Sales Tax:	4.20% (6.10% avg combined with local)
Property Tax Rate:	1.31% effective rate
Gas Tax:	28.00¢ per gallon
Estate Tax:	No

Cost of Living & Housing

South Dakota has a significantly lower cost of living than the US average, coming in 11.5% cheaper. The median home price of $295,000 is below the national average.

Cost of Living Index

Cost of Living Index:	88.50 (US avg = 100)
Median Home Price:	$295,000
Median Monthly Rent:	$950/mo

Income & Employment

South Dakota's median household income of $65,272 is near the national average. The unemployment rate of 2.00% is among the lowest in the country, and the poverty rate is 11.50%.

Median Household Income

Median Household Income:	$65,272
Minimum Wage:	$11.20/hr
Unemployment Rate:	2.00%
Poverty Rate:	11.50%

Climate

South Dakota gets a moderate amount of sunshine, averaging 116 sunny days per year. Winters are harsh, with January temperatures averaging 18.0°F, while summers reach 76.0°F in July, and heavy snowfall of around 38.00" annually is typical.

Sunny Days / Year

Sunny Days / Year:	116 days
Avg January Temp:	18.0°F
Avg July Temp:	76.0°F
Annual Rainfall:	20.90"
Annual Snowfall:	38.00"

Demographics

South Dakota has a relatively young population with a median age of 37.4. It is one of the least densely populated states at 11.3 people per square mile, and the population is growing at 1.00% per year.

Median Age

Median Age:	37.4 years
Population Density:	11.3 per sq mi
Population Growth:	1.00% (last census)

South Dakota State Symbols