The Mount Rushmore State is seeing an influx in newcomers as more and more people are moving to South Dakota. It’s no wonder given the state’s stunning landscape, affordable housing, and personal freedoms.

Bookmark this guide if you’re looking for the best places to live in South Dakota, perks of becoming a resident, and tips for prospective homebuyers.

Perks of Moving to South Dakota

South Dakota residents don’t pay state income tax, leaving more money in your pockets. Combine this with low property taxes and affordable realty prices, and you get some of the best bang for your buck when it comes to being a homeowner in the United States.

Midwest states like South Dakota are often said to be home to some of the friendliest people, and small communities with low crime rates do their part of making the state a welcoming home for new residents.

Anyone who wants to escape their neighborhood for a bit has a plethora of options: South Dakota is home to the Badlands, Black Hills, rivers, parks, and a variety of outdoor activities. And any motorcycle fan won’t want to miss out on the famous Sturgis Rally.

Choosing The Right City

The two biggest in South Dakota are Sioux Falls and Rapid City, which are currently the hottest housing markets in the state. Sioux Falls is home to around 183,700 people while Rapid City has a population of around 77,500.

Both cities offer plenty of entertainment options, but smaller towns have their advantages, too. Brandon (population 10,000) is the safest city in the state, followed by Lead (population 3,000) and Summerset (population 2,700).

Popular For Remote Workers

As more and more companies adopt remote working practices due to COVID-19, states with low real estate prices and open spaces are becoming more popular– one reason South Dakota is seeing an increase in people moving to the area.

Shifts to remote work are expected to stick around even after the pandemic, as companies like Twitter have announced they will adopt the work-from-home model permanently. If you’re living in an expensive city, but no longer have a reason to do so because of work, why not consider becoming a South Dakota resident?

Buying a Home

There are plenty of reasons to move to South Dakota, and if you’re seriously considering relocating, it’s best to get a move on sooner rather than later. House prices are currently relatively low, even in the biggest cities of Sioux Falls and Rapid City, but prices are expected to rise as more and more people move to the state.

This development also makes it a good time for selling homes; properties are spending fewer days on the market as demand increases.

The Time Is Now

If low home prices and affordable outdoor recreation sounds like a great combination, check out some listings in the area– but we can’t guarantee you won’t fall in love with what you see!