Moving to South Dakota: A Relocation Guide

Published Aug 14, 2026 · Relocation · Red Rock Daily staff

Thinking about moving to South Dakota? Here's a practical starting point for newcomers.

Key facts

• Capital: Pierre
• Largest city: Sioux Falls
• Population: 886,667 (2020 census)
• Nickname: The Mount Rushmore State
• Region: Midwest

What should you consider before moving to South Dakota?

• Where to live: Major cities include Sioux Falls and the state capital Pierre. See our South Dakota state guide and city guides for details.
• Cost of living: Compare housing, utilities and taxes carefully — costs vary significantly across the state.
• Lifestyle: South Dakota's midwest location shapes daily life, from climate to recreation. Explore the top things to do to get a feel for the state.
• Jobs & schools: Research local employers and school districts in your target city before committing.

City guides: Pierre, Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Deadwood.

Frequently asked questions

What are the largest cities in South Dakota?

The largest city in South Dakota is Sioux Falls, and the capital is Pierre. See the city guides for local detail.

What is the population of South Dakota?

The 2020 census population of South Dakota is 886,667 (2020 census).

What should I research before moving to South Dakota?

Compare housing, utilities, taxes, jobs and school districts in your target city. The moving guide above and the South Dakota state guide are a good starting point — verify current costs with local sources.

Next steps

This guide is a starting point — Red Rock Daily is building detailed, city-level relocation coverage across the country. For now, combine this overview with the South Dakota state guide and local city pages.