When evaluating South Dakota towns for retirement living, it’s important for me to note that the grades I’ve assigned are subjective and based on current data and local comparisons.
I’ve listed towns in alphabetical order for easy reference. All grades are assigned relative to other South Dakota locations, not compared to national averages or other states. This helps provide me a clear picture of how each location ranks within the context of South Dakota’s unique characteristics and offerings.
Here’s the list.
1. Aberdeen
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: C+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: B+
Aberdeen stands out for retirees primarily due to its excellent healthcare facilities and affordable housing market. With a median home price of $215,000, mortgage affordability is a significant advantage for retirees, and the local real estate market offers a good mix of newer developments and established neighborhoods.
The city boasts a rich cultural scene centered around Northern State University, including theater productions and art galleries. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Richmond Lake Recreation Area just 10 miles away. The regional airport provides daily flights to Minneapolis, and Avera St. Luke’s Hospital offers comprehensive medical services within city limits.
2. Belle Fourche
- Cost of Buying a Home: A
- Healthcare Access: B-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B-
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: C+
Belle Fourche attracts retirees with its exceptionally affordable housing market and low crime rate. The median home price of $185,000 makes securing a home loan particularly manageable for retirees on a fixed income, with many single-story ranch-style homes available.
The town’s cultural life centers around the Tri-State Museum and the annual Black Hills Roundup. While the nearest major airport is Rapid City Regional (50 miles away), the local Monument Health clinic provides essential medical services, with more comprehensive care available in Spearfish, just 10 miles away.
3. Brandon
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B-
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: A
Brandon’s exceptional safety record and proximity to Sioux Falls make it a top choice for retirees seeking a suburban lifestyle. The median home price of $325,000 means mortgages may be more expensive than other areas in the state, but the location offers excellent value considering its amenities and safety.
Residents enjoy easy access to both Brandon’s local events and Sioux Falls’ cultural scene just 15 minutes away. The Sioux Falls Regional Airport is within a 20-minute drive, and comprehensive healthcare is available through both local clinics and major Sioux Falls medical centers just minutes away.
4. Brookings
- Cost of Buying a Home: B
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B-
- Cultural Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B
Brookings offers retirees an ideal blend of cultural richness and healthcare accessibility. The median home price of $245,000 provides reasonable mortgage options, with a variety of housing styles from modern condos to traditional single-family homes.
South Dakota State University provides numerous cultural opportunities, including the South Dakota Art Museum and performing arts events. The Brookings Health System offers comprehensive care, while Sioux Falls Regional Airport is just an hour away. The town features multiple parks and the Dakota Nature Park for outdoor recreation.
5. Canton
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B-
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B+
Canton appeals to retirees seeking a peaceful small-town atmosphere with excellent housing affordability. The median home price of $195,000 makes obtaining a home loan very manageable, and the town offers many well-maintained older homes with character.
The historic downtown hosts various community events throughout the year, and the Newton Hills State Park provides outdoor recreation opportunities. Sioux Falls and its airport are just 20 minutes away, while the local Sanford Canton-Inwood Medical Center provides quality healthcare services.
6. Dell Rapids
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: A-
Dell Rapids stands out for its exceptional safety and charming historic downtown. With a median home price of $235,000, mortgage affordability remains attractive, particularly given the town’s proximity to Sioux Falls.
The town’s quartzite falls and historic architecture provide a unique backdrop for community events and outdoor activities. Sioux Falls Regional Airport is just 30 minutes away, and residents have access to both local medical services and Sioux Falls healthcare facilities within a short drive.
7. Huron
- Cost of Buying a Home: A
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B-
- Cultural Activities: B
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B-
Huron offers retirees an exceptional combination of affordable housing and quality healthcare access. The median home price of $175,000 makes securing a mortgage particularly affordable, with many homes featuring spacious lots and established neighborhoods.
The South Dakota State Fair provides annual entertainment, while the Splash Central Waterpark and Memorial Park offer year-round recreation. The Huron Regional Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare services, and while the local airport is small, Sioux Falls Regional Airport is within a two-hour drive.
8. Lead
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: B-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: C+
Lead attracts retirees with its stunning Black Hills location and affordable housing options. The median home price of $195,000 ensures home loan affordability, with many properties offering mountain views and historic charm.
The Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center and Historic Opera House provide cultural enrichment, while the surrounding Black Hills offer endless outdoor activities. The nearest major airport is Rapid City Regional (45 miles), and basic healthcare is available locally with more comprehensive services in Deadwood and Spearfish.
9. Madison
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B
Madison provides retirees with a perfect blend of college-town amenities and small-town charm. The median home price of $205,000 makes mortgage payments quite reasonable, with options ranging from historic homes to modern developments.
Dakota State University brings cultural events and lifelong learning opportunities, while Lake Herman State Park offers outdoor recreation. Madison Regional Health System provides quality healthcare, and Sioux Falls Regional Airport is just an hour away.
10. Mitchell
- Cost of Buying a Home: A-
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B
Mitchell offers retirees an excellent combination of affordability and amenities. The median home price of $195,000 ensures excellent mortgage affordability, with many properties featuring generous lot sizes.
The famous Corn Palace and Prehistoric Indian Village provide unique cultural attractions, while Lake Mitchell offers outdoor recreation. Avera Queen of Peace Hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services, and the regional airport connects to larger hubs for travel convenience.
11. Pierre
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B+
As the state capital, Pierre offers retirees a unique blend of government-town stability and outdoor recreation. The median home price of $230,000 keeps mortgages affordable, while the housing market benefits from the steady government employment base.
The Cultural Heritage Center and State Capitol provide year-round activities, while Lake Oahe offers excellent fishing and boating. The local airport provides regular service to Minneapolis and Denver, and Avera St. Mary’s Hospital offers comprehensive healthcare services.
12. Rapid City
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A+
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B-
- Airport Proximity: A
Rapid City serves as the gateway to the Black Hills and offers retirees the most comprehensive urban amenities in western South Dakota. The median home price of $335,000 means home loans may be more expensive, but the location provides excellent value for those seeking a more active retirement.
The city offers numerous cultural attractions including the Journey Museum and Main Street Square events. Monument Health Regional Hospital provides extensive medical services, and Rapid City Regional Airport offers direct flights to multiple major cities.
13. Redfield
- Cost of Buying a Home: A+
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: B-
- Cultural Activities: B-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: C+
Redfield stands out for having some of the most affordable housing in South Dakota. With a median home price of $145,000, securing a mortgage is remarkably affordable for retirees, and many homes feature large yards perfect for gardening.
The town offers a quiet lifestyle with access to fishing at Redfield Lake and regular community events. Community Memorial Hospital provides basic healthcare services, while Aberdeen’s airport is about an hour away for travel needs.
14. Sioux Falls
- Cost of Buying a Home: C
- Healthcare Access: A+
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: A+
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: A+
South Dakota’s largest city offers retirees the most comprehensive urban amenities in the state. The median home price of $350,000 means mortgages will be among the most expensive in South Dakota, but the city offers unmatched healthcare and cultural opportunities.
Falls Park, the Washington Pavilion, and numerous festivals provide year-round entertainment. Sanford USD Medical Center and Avera McKennan Hospital offer world-class healthcare, while Sioux Falls Regional Airport provides extensive flight options.
15. Spearfish
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: B
Spearfish offers retirees an active lifestyle in one of South Dakota’s most scenic locations. The median home price of $325,000 means home loans may be more expensive, but the natural amenities and quality of life justify the investment.
Black Hills State University provides cultural events, while Spearfish Canyon offers world-class outdoor recreation. Monument Health Spearfish Hospital provides excellent healthcare, and Rapid City Regional Airport is just 45 minutes away.
16. Sturgis
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B
- Airport Proximity: B
Famous for its motorcycle rally, Sturgis offers retirees a unique blend of small-town living and tourist-town amenities. The median home price of $245,000 makes mortgage payments reasonable, with many homes offering views of the Black Hills.
The Motorcycle Museum and Fort Meade Museum provide year-round attractions, while the Black Hills National Forest offers endless recreation opportunities. Monument Health Sturgis Hospital provides quality healthcare, and Rapid City Regional Airport is just 30 minutes away.
17. Tea
- Cost of Buying a Home: C+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: A
Tea provides a peaceful suburban lifestyle with easy access to Sioux Falls amenities. The median home price of $315,000 means home loans may be more substantial, but the location offers excellent value for those wanting a quieter setting near urban conveniences.
The community maintains several parks and walking trails, while Sioux Falls’ cultural attractions are just 10 minutes away. Sioux Falls Regional Airport is within 15 minutes, and residents have access to world-class healthcare facilities in nearby Sioux Falls.
18. Vermillion
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B
Vermillion offers retirees a vibrant college-town atmosphere with excellent cultural opportunities. The median home price of $225,000 ensures mortgage affordability, with options ranging from historic homes to modern developments near campus.
The University of South Dakota provides numerous cultural events, museums, and lifelong learning opportunities. Sanford Vermillion Medical Center offers quality healthcare, while Sioux Falls Regional Airport is just over an hour away.
19. Volga
- Cost of Buying a Home: A
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: B-
- Cultural Activities: B
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: B
Volga attracts retirees with its exceptional affordability and safe, small-town atmosphere. The median home price of $185,000 makes securing a home loan very manageable, with many properties featuring spacious lots.
The town offers easy access to Brookings’ cultural amenities just 5 miles away, while local parks provide recreation opportunities. Healthcare services are available in nearby Brookings, and Sioux Falls Regional Airport is about an hour’s drive.
20. Watertown
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B-
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B+
Watertown provides retirees with excellent healthcare access and lakeside living opportunities. The median home price of $235,000 offers good mortgage affordability, with many homes near Lake Kampeska providing water views.
The Redlin Art Center and Bramble Park Zoo offer year-round attractions, while the lake provides extensive recreation options. Prairie Lakes Healthcare System offers comprehensive medical care, and Watertown Regional Airport provides regular service to major hubs.
21. Webster
- Cost of Buying a Home: A+
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: C+
- Cultural Activities: B-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: C
Webster stands out for its incredibly affordable housing market and peaceful lifestyle. With a median home price of $155,000, mortgage affordability is exceptional, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious retirees.
The town is surrounded by excellent fishing lakes and hunting areas, providing outdoor recreation opportunities. Sanford Webster Medical Center offers basic healthcare services, while Aberdeen Regional Airport is about an hour away.
22. Wessington Springs
- Cost of Buying a Home: A+
- Healthcare Access: B-
- Weather: B
- Cultural Activities: B-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: C
Wessington Springs offers retirees an exceptionally affordable and peaceful retirement setting. The median home price of $135,000 makes home loans highly affordable, representing some of the best housing values in the state.
The Shakespeare Garden and local museum provide cultural interest, while the nearby hills offer scenic drives and hiking. Avera Weskota Memorial Hospital provides essential medical services, while Mitchell Airport is about an hour away for travel needs.
23. White
- Cost of Buying a Home: A+
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: B-
- Cultural Activities: C+
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: B+
White offers retirees an exceptionally affordable small-town lifestyle near larger cities. The median home price of $145,000 ensures excellent mortgage affordability, with many well-maintained older homes available.
While local activities are limited, Brookings’ cultural amenities are just 15 minutes away, and Sioux Falls is within an hour’s drive. Healthcare services are available in nearby Brookings, and Sioux Falls Regional Airport is easily accessible.
24. Winner
- Cost of Buying a Home: A+
- Healthcare Access: B
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: C+
Winner appeals to retirees seeking an affordable, friendly community in south-central South Dakota. The median home price of $150,000 makes securing a mortgage very affordable, with many ranch-style homes ideal for retirees.
The town offers a public swimming pool, golf course, and regular community events. Winner Regional Healthcare Center provides quality medical services, while Pierre Regional Airport is the nearest major airport, about two hours away.
25. Yankton
- Cost of Buying a Home: B+
- Healthcare Access: A
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B-
Yankton offers retirees a beautiful riverfront setting with excellent healthcare options. The median home price of $230,000 provides good mortgage affordability, with many properties offering views of the Missouri River.
Lewis and Clark Lake provides extensive recreation opportunities, while the historic downtown offers shopping and dining. Avera Sacred Heart Hospital provides comprehensive healthcare services, and while the local airport is small, Sioux Falls Regional Airport is within a 90-minute drive.
Sources:
Government Sites:
- South Dakota Department of Transportation (https://dot.sd.gov/)
- South Dakota State Government (https://sd.gov/)
- FAA Airport Data (https://www.faa.gov/)
University Site:
- South Dakota State University (https://www.sdstate.edu/)
News Sources:
- Argus Leader (https://www.argusleader.com/)
- KELOLAND News (https://www.keloland.com/)
- Other Sources:
- Zillow.com
- Realtor.com
- Health.usnews.com
- Wikipedia.com
South Dakota really has some fantastic retirement spots! Brandon seems like a great choice with its safety and proximity to Sioux Falls. Brookings has that cultural vibe, while Canton offers affordability and a cozy feel. I’d also check out Spearfish for its natural beauty and Deadwood for its unique history!
I love your picks! It sounds like you’ve really thought this through. great choices!
Have you considered all the great retirement towns in South Dakota? Madison, Mitchell, Pierre, and Rapid City all have unique charms! Also, Brookings and Spearfish are worth checking out!
Did you know South Dakota has some awesome spots for retirees? Huron, with its affordable homes and fun fairs, sounds perfect! Lead has those stunning Black Hills views, and Madison mixes college vibes with small-town charm. And hey, check out Mitchell’s Corn Palace. so unique! Brookings is equally delightful!
South Dakota has some awesome retirement towns! Brookings is beautiful, safe, and full of culture.
Who knew retirement could be so lively? Canton sounds like a blast with all those year-round parties! And Dell Rapids? Quartzite falls and safety galore. count me in! Huron’s spacious homes and waterpark are just the cherry on top. Forget bingo. let’s hit the trails and catch some fish!