South Dakota offers retirees affordable living, stunning natural landscapes, and a welcoming sense of community. With no state income tax, relatively low property taxes, and a cost of living below the national average, it’s an attractive option for retirement. Pair that with access to excellent healthcare and vibrant communities, and it’s easy to see why South Dakota is worth considering.
What Are the Safest Places to Retire in South Dakota?
Sioux Falls
Violent Crime Rate: 5.5 per 1,000 people
Property Crime Rate: 30.5 per 1,000 people
Extreme Weather Risk: Moderate, with potential tornadoes
Sioux Falls is South Dakota’s largest city, but don’t let that fool you. It retains a friendly, small-town atmosphere while offering a vibrant mix of urban amenities, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Retirees love the vibrant downtown, affordable housing, and strong healthcare options.
Falls Park is a gem for nature lovers, offering walking paths along the Big Sioux River and stunning views of its namesake falls. Downtown Sioux Falls has something for everyone, from the SculptureWalk, an open-air art gallery, to charming local shops and eateries. The year-round farmers’ market and community events, like First Fridays, create a sense of connection for retirees.
Finding a home here is easy, with affordable options like low-maintenance condos, townhomes, and senior-friendly neighborhoods. You won’t have to sacrifice comfort or convenience, even on a budget.
Extra concerned about access to healthcare? Sioux Falls is a regional healthcare hub, with two major hospital systems providing a wide range of services:
- Sanford USD Medical Center: This is a 545-bed tertiary care hospital that’s part of the Sanford Health system. It offers a comprehensive range of services, including:
- Emergency Care: 24/7 emergency department with a Level II Trauma Center.
- Cardiology: Diagnostics, treatments, and rehab for heart conditions.
- Cancer Care: Advanced oncology services with chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
- Orthopedics: Joint replacement, spinal care, and physical therapy.
- Senior-Specific Programs: Geriatric care, wellness programs, and chronic disease management.
- Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center: This is a 655-bed non-profit hospital that’s part of the Avera Health system. It offers a similar range of services to Sanford USD Medical Center, including:
- Emergency Care: 24/7 emergency department with a Level II Trauma Center.
- Heart & Vascular Center: Comprehensive cardiac care, including diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation.
- Prairie Center: A cancer center offering chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and support services.
- Orthopedics & Sports Medicine: Joint replacements, spine surgery, and sports medicine.
- Senior Services: A variety of programs designed to help seniors maintain their health and independence, including chronic disease management, fall prevention, and geriatric assessments.
Weather in Sioux Falls:
- Summer: Warm, with highs in the 80s°F
- Winter: Cold and snowy, with lows in the teens
- Spring/Fall: Mild and great for outdoor activities
Tornadoes can pop up during spring and summer, so make extra preparations, especially if you’ll be away from family or friends who can help.
Rapid City
Violent Crime Rate: 6.8 per 1,000 people
Property Crime Rate: 35.5 per 1,000 people
Extreme Weather Risk: Low
Rapid City sits at the edge of the Black Hills, offering retirees a mix of natural beauty, history, and a peaceful way of life. It’s the perfect spot if you love the outdoors or exploring unique local attractions.
The city is a gateway to world-famous spots like Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park. Around town, visit Storybook Island or Dinosaur Park for something a bit more playful. Downtown has a lively vibe with one-of-a-kind shops, art galleries, and restaurants serving up dishes like bison burgers.
Rapid City’s history goes back to the Black Hills Gold Rush in 1876. You can dig into the past at places like the Journey Museum & Learning Center, which tells the region’s story from prehistoric times to today. The Museum of Geology at the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology is another standout, featuring fossils and unique rock formations from the area.
Rapid City has affordable housing, with choices ranging from cozy homes to senior-friendly communities. It’s a great place to stretch your budget while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle.
Monument Health Rapid City Hospital is the city’s main medical hub. This 417-bed facility provides essential services for retirees, including:
- Emergency Care: 24/7 with a Level II Trauma Center
- Cardiology: Heart diagnostics and treatments
- Orthopedics: Knee and hip replacements, plus physical therapy
- Cancer Care: Chemotherapy, radiation, and support groups
- Women’s Health: Mammograms and other screenings
- Surgical Services: Both inpatient and outpatient procedures
Weather in Rapid City
- Summer: Warm and sunny, with highs in the low 80s°F
- Winter: Milder than most of South Dakota, with lows around 20°F
- Spring/Fall: Perfect for outdoor activities
Extreme weather is rare, but Rapid City occasionally sees severe thunderstorms, blizzards, or wildfires.
Brookings
Violent Crime Rate: 1.8 per 1,000 people
Property Crime Rate: 13.8 per 1,000 people
Extreme Weather Risk: Low
Brookings is a charming college town that blends education, culture, and community spirit. It’s a relaxing place to live, with affordable housing, friendly neighbors, and plenty to do. Retirees love the slower pace here, but the town’s lively events and cultural opportunities keep things interesting.
Thanks to South Dakota State University (SDSU), there’s always something going on for lifelong learners. Catch a performance or lecture at the Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center, or enjoy a quiet afternoon at McCrory Gardens, where you’ll find beautiful botanical gardens and walking paths. If your family comes to visit, the Children’s Museum of South Dakota is always a hit with the grandkids.
Brookings is also easy on the budget. Housing costs sit below both the South Dakota and national averages, with options like senior apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes in peaceful neighborhoods. Whether you’re downsizing or looking for a cozy home, Brookings has affordable choices for every need.
Brookings Health System is a 89-bed non-profit community hospital that keeps healthcare close and convenient with services like:
- Emergency Care: Open 24/7 for urgent needs
- Cardiology: Heart diagnostics and treatments
- Orthopedics: Joint replacements and spine care
- Rehabilitation: Physical and occupational therapy
- Diagnostic Imaging: X-rays, CT scans, and more
- Primary Care: Preventative and family medicine
For more complex medical needs, retirees may need to travel to Sioux Falls, which is about an hour’s drive away.
Weather in Brookings:
- Summer: Warm, with highs in the low 80s°F
- Winter: Cold, with lows in the teens
- Spring/Fall: Cool and pleasant
Brookings does see occasional severe storms, blizzards, or even tornado risks during spring and summer.
Mitchell
Violent Crime Rate: 3.3 per 1,000 people
Property Crime Rate: 24.7 per 1,000 people
Extreme Weather Risk: Low
Mitchell is a small town full of charm where neighbors know each other, and life feels easygoing. It’s affordable, safe, and full of unique attractions that make it a great spot to call home.
The Corn Palace isn’t your average tourist spot. It’s a unique display of living art, decorated with corn and grains that get a fresh design every year.
Beyond that, there’s plenty to explore. The Dakota Discovery Museum dives into local history, from Native American culture to pioneer life. At the Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village, you can step back in time and see how ancient communities lived in this area thousands of years ago.
For outdoor lovers, Lake Mitchell is a peaceful escape. It’s a go-to for fishing, hiking, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The trails around the lake are perfect for a morning walk, and the picnic spots make it easy to enjoy an afternoon with family or friends. Downtown Mitchell adds to the mix with small shops, local restaurants, and community events that bring everyone together.
Housing here is affordable and varied. You’ll find everything from senior apartments to quiet neighborhoods that are close to stores and services.
Mitchell’s healthcare needs are well-covered by Avera Queen of Peace Hospital. This 67-bed facility offers:
- 24/7 emergency care
- Cardiology: Heart health services, from diagnostics to treatments
- Orthopedics: Joint replacements, spine care, and sports medicine
- Rehabilitation: Physical and occupational therapy
- Diagnostic Imaging: MRI, CT scans, and X-rays
- Specialty Clinics: Including women’s health, oncology, and more
Weather in Mitchell:
- Summer: Warm, with highs in the mid-80s°F
- Winter: Cold, with lows in the teens and occasional snow
- Spring/Fall: Comfortable, mild, and great for outdoor activities
Mitchell has a low risk of extreme weather, but thunderstorms and the rare tornado can happen. The city is well-prepared with emergency plans, so staying informed and ready is all you’ll need.
Spearfish
Violent Crime Rate: 2.4 per 1,000 people
Property Crime Rate: 22.9 per 1,000 people
Extreme Weather Risk: Low
Spearfish sits in the shadow of the Black Hills, offering retirees stunning scenery, outdoor fun, and a tight-knit community. The town gets its name from Spearfish Creek, where Native American tribes once fished using spears—a nod to the area’s rich history.
If you love nature, Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway is a favorite, with its towering cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking trails. The nearby Black Hills National Forest gives you endless options for exploring, from peaceful walks to biking and fishing.
Want a bit of culture? Check out the Matthews Opera House and Arts Center for live performances or the High Plains Heritage Center Museum to dive into the area’s history.
Downtown Spearfish feels inviting and easy to navigate, with local shops, cafes, and restaurants lining the streets. Art lovers will enjoy the vibrant art scene and events like the annual Festival in the Park.
Housing in Spearfish is affordable, with options ranging from cozy single-family homes to senior-friendly communities close to everything you need.
Monument Health Spearfish Hospital is a 35-bed facility that provides top-notch care, including:
- Emergency Care: Open 24/7 for urgent needs.
- Cardiology: Heart diagnostics and treatments.
- Orthopedics: Joint replacements, spine care, and sports medicine.
- Rehabilitation: Physical and occupational therapy.
- Diagnostic Imaging: X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans.
- Primary Care: Preventative and family medicine.
- Senior Services: Programs like chronic disease management and fall prevention.
For specialized care, Rapid City is just a 45-minute drive and offers a wider range of medical services.
Weather in Spearfish
- Summer: Warm and sunny, with highs in the mid-80s°F
- Winter: Cold but manageable, with lows around 20°F
- Spring/Fall: Mild and perfect for outdoor adventures
Spearfish avoids most extreme weather, but you might see the occasional thunderstorm, blizzard, or wildfire. Even so, it’s a beautiful and peaceful place to call home.
What Are the Best Healthcare Options for Seniors in South Dakota?
- Sanford Health (Sioux Falls): Renowned for cardiology and oncology care.
- Monument Health (Rapid City): Strong focus on orthopedics and senior wellness.
- Avera Health (Statewide): Community-oriented care with senior-specific programs.
Which City Has the Lowest Crime Rate?
Brookings takes the top spot for safety, with a violent crime rate of 1.8 per 1,000 and a property crime rate of 13.8 per 1,000. Spearfish is also a safe pick, with low crime and a gorgeous setting near the Black Hills. Compared to bigger cities like Sioux Falls or Rapid City, Brookings feels like a quiet and secure retreat.
Is South Dakota Senior-Friendly and Accessible?
Pros
- Tax Friendly: There is no state income tax in South Dakota, which means your Social Security benefits, pensions, and other retirement income are not taxed at the state level.
- Cost of Living: South Dakota has a lower cost of living than the national average, particularly for housing.
- Healthcare Access: Excellent care available statewide.
- Natural Beauty: National parks, trails, and scenic drives abound.
- Recreation: Beyond the national parks, South Dakota offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hunting, fishing, boating, and camping. The Missouri River and numerous lakes provide ample opportunities for water activities.
Cons
- Harsh Winters: South Dakota experiences long, cold winters with significant snowfall and strong winds.
- Limited Public Transit: A car is essential in most areas.
Subscribe to Our Blog
Exploring senior living solutions? At the Ultimate Senior Resource, we’re keen to learn about your individual needs and discuss how we can support you in achieving them. Our blog is just one of the valuable tools we provide to educate and motivate seniors to lead enriching and prosperous lives. Contact us today to book a virtual tour.