South Dakota

Beaches

Cost of Living: Low

Train Access: No

Bus Service: Yes (Sioux Area Metro, RapidRide, relatively safe)

South Dakota, located in the Midwestern region of the United States, is known for its rolling prairies, fertile farmland, and the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which features the carved faces of four U.S. presidents. The state is divided by the Missouri River, creating two distinct halves known as East River and West River. East River is characterized by its agricultural landscape, while West River is more rugged and known for its tourism and ranching. The Black Hills, located in the southwestern part of the state, are a small, isolated mountain range and home to the aforementioned Mount Rushmore, as well as the Crazy Horse Memorial, which is currently under construction to honor the Native American warrior. South Dakota is also home to Badlands National Park, which offers a stark and beautiful landscape of eroded buttes and pinnacles. The state has a rich Native American heritage, with several tribes residing on reservations within its borders. The economy of South Dakota is driven by agriculture, tourism, and increasingly by service industries, including finance and healthcare. The state's largest city, Sioux Falls, is a regional hub for business and healthcare, while Rapid City, near the Black Hills, serves as a gateway to the region's attractions. South Dakota experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons, including cold, dry winters and hot, semi-humid summers. The state is known for its friendly communities, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a slower pace of life that many residents value. Despite its rural character, South Dakota offers a range of cultural experiences, including art galleries, museums, and annual events like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. With its combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and a strong sense of community, South Dakota provides a unique slice of American life.

Nomad Lifestyle

A-

Family Friendly

Single Friendly

Senior Friendly

B+

Crime

C+

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Weather

A-

Cost of Living

Recreation

C-

Nightlife

Restaurants

Cost of Living

The cost of living in South Dakota is generally considered low, with housing, healthcare, and transportation costs being lower than the national average.

Weather

South Dakota experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with snowfall and temperatures often below freezing. Summers are warm to hot with occasional thunderstorms. Spring and fall are transitional periods with variable weather patterns and temperatures.

Educational System South Dakota

The educational system in South Dakota is structured similarly to that of other states in the United States. Education is compulsory for children from the age of 5 or 6, depending on the district, until age 18 or completion of the 12th grade. The system is divided into elementary school (kindergarten through 5th grade), middle school (6th through 8th grade), and high school (9th through 12th grade). Children typically start kindergarten at the age of 5 or 6 and graduate from high school at around 18 years old. South Dakota places a strong emphasis on a balanced education that includes English, mathematics, social studies, science, and physical education. Additionally, there are opportunities for advanced placement (AP) courses and dual credit programs that allow high school students to earn college credits. The state has adopted the Common Core State Standards to ensure that students receive a consistent, high-quality education that prepares them for college and careers. South Dakota also offers various alternative education and special education programs to cater to the diverse needs of students. Parents moving to South Dakota can expect a supportive education environment with a focus on individual student growth and achievement.

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Best Places to Live in South Dakota

Discover the top-ranked towns in South Dakota. Click on the town's name for a full profile of each town.

Rankings are based on a combination of many factors including schools, recreation, family-friendliness, cost of living and crime.

Universities in South Dakota

University Costs: moderate

The university system in South Dakota consists of six public universities governed by the South Dakota Board of Regents, as well as several private institutions. Public universities include the University of South Dakota, South Dakota State University, and others, offering a range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs. The academic year typically starts in late August or early September and ends in May, divided into two semesters. Undergraduate degrees usually take four years to complete, while graduate degrees can take anywhere from two to seven years, depending on the field of study. Foreign students considering attending university in South Dakota will find a welcoming environment with support services such as international student offices to help with the transition. Costs for international students can be higher than for in-state residents, but many universities offer scholarships and financial aid options to help manage expenses. Students are encouraged to apply early and seek out these opportunities. The state's universities are known for their research, agricultural programs, and engineering schools, among others. South Dakota also has technical institutes that offer vocational and technical education, which typically take two years to complete.

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