Is Sioux Falls expensive to live in?

Sioux Falls is considered affordable, with a cost index of 95 compared to the US average of 100. Living here costs about 5% less than the national average. The median monthly rent is $1,265, and the median household income is $74,714.

What salary do you need to live comfortably in Sioux Falls?

Using the standard 30% rent-to-income rule, you need at least $50,600/year to afford median rent in Sioux Falls. The median household income is $74,714, giving a rent-to-income ratio of 20%. Financial experts recommend keeping rent below 30% of gross income.

What is the average rent in Sioux Falls?

The median rent in Sioux Falls is $1,265 per month. Housing costs score 88 against the national average of 100, meaning housing is 12% cheaper than the US average.

How does Sioux Falls compare to the national average cost of living?

Sioux Falls's overall cost index is 95 vs the national average of 100. Breaking it down: housing (88), food & groceries (93), transportation (90), utilities (88), and healthcare (98). Sioux Falls is below average in most categories, making it a strong value destination.

Is Sioux Falls, South Dakota a good place to live?

Sioux Falls has a population of 206,410 and a median household income of $74,714. With a cost index of 95, it offers strong affordability relative to the national average. The rent-to-income ratio is 20%, which is within healthy financial guidelines.

What are the cheapest cities near Sioux Falls?

To find the most affordable cities near Sioux Falls in South Dakota, use the Livably city comparison tool or browse the South Dakota state page. You can compare rent, cost index, income, and affordability side by side across all tracked cities.

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Sioux Falls

Monthly city intelligence across housing costs, tax load, and affordability signals to help you plan your next move with clearer numbers.

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Cost index: 95

Median rent: $1,265

Median income: $74,714

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About Sioux Falls

Living in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Sioux Falls, South Dakota is a growing city with a population of approximately 206,410. The overall cost of living index sits at 95, which is below the national average of 100. This means everyday expenses — housing, groceries, transportation, and healthcare — are roughly 5% less expensive compared to the typical U.S. city.

Housing is the largest cost driver in Sioux Falls. Median rent is $1,265 per month, while the median home price is $326,187. At a median household income of $74,714, rent consumes roughly 20% of gross income, which remains manageable relative to local incomes. The housing sub-index of 88 sits close to the national norm.

Beyond housing, healthcare is the most elevated non-shelter expense in Sioux Falls with a sub-index of 98, while utilities is comparatively more affordable at 88. State-level taxes also shape the true cost of living: South Dakota applies a 0.00% income tax rate, and property tax averages 1.08% of assessed home value. The combined sales tax rate is 6.10%. Local income tax may apply in some municipalities.

Over the past twelve months, the cost of living in Sioux Falls has remained relatively stable. Among the 1 tracked cities in South Dakota, Sioux Falls ranks #1 from most to least affordable. Whether you're evaluating a job offer, planning a relocation, or comparing salary purchasing power, these numbers give a grounded, data-backed view of what life in Sioux Falls actually costs.

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