Livability

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South Dakota

The Missouri River divides South Dakota into two distinct halves, known to residents as simply East River and West River. While Mount Rushmore draws thousands of tourists to South Dakota each year, the state’s natural resources, low cost of living and thriving economy lure new residents. Agriculture, tourism and national defense anchor the economy in South Dakota.

Wide-open spaces and serene landscapes make South Dakota an extraordinary place to live. Here are the best cities to hang your cowboy hat.

Quick Facts

Best Places To Live in South Dakota

11 Great Communities for Military Families

6 Reasons to Move to Sioux Falls, SD, Right Now

8 Places With Waterfalls Right in the Middle of Town

Places We Love In South Dakota

Pierre, SD

Yankton, SD

Sioux Falls, SD

Mitchell, SD

Rapid City, SD

Aberdeen, SD

Watertown, SD

Brookings, SD

Spearfish, SD

Cities in South Dakota on Livability.com

Experiences & Adventures

8 Animal Encounters You Have to See to Believe

Take a walk on the wild side at these insane animal attractions.

Where to Stay at America’s 25 Best National Parks

Book one of these charming lodges, hotels and Airbnbs for your next getaway.

The Best Cities to Visit With Your Dog in Every State

Looking for places you can bring your pup? Check out this list of some of the most Fido-friendly cities in the U.S.  

Food Scenes

The Official Food of Every State in the U.S

Eat your way through America the beautiful with our guide to the official food of every state.

Where to Live Now

Best Places To Live in South Dakota

Wide-open spaces and serene landscapes make South Dakota an extraordinary place to live. Here are the best cities to hang your cowboy hat.

Love Where You Live

The Official 2022 State-Specific Gift Guide

This year we’re taking ‘shop local’ to the next level with the best gifts from each state to give your loved ones. 

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Livability explores what makes small-to-medium sized cities great places to live. Through proprietary research studies, engaging articles and original photography and video, we examine topics related to community amenities, education, sustainability, transportation, housing and the economy. We then leverage that expertise to develop city rankings for a range of topics including small towns, college towns and our annual Top 100 Best Places to Live.