SOUTH DAKOTA
Welcome to South Dakota!
In South Dakota, wide-open prairies roll into the rugged Black Hills, creating a landscape that’s full of beauty and adventure. One day you might be standing in the shadow of a famous monument, the next you’re fishing in a clear, quiet stream. Life here moves between small-town festivals and the energy of cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City. It’s a place where friendly communities, open skies, and new opportunities all come together.
If you’re looking to buy a home, South Dakota has the space and spirit to make it yours.
Top CHIPs for South Dakota
The Best Community Home Investment Programs for you.
South Dakota makes it easier to own a home with a variety of Community Home Investment Programs (CHIPs). These options can lower your upfront costs, offer better mortgage rates, and help you move in with confidence. Take a look and see which one fits your plans best.
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GROW South Dakota Down Payment or Closing Cost Assistance (DPA)
This program offers up to $7,500 to help you purchase your home. With a 0% interest rate and no monthly payments required, it’s an affordable way to achieve homeownership. Funding is available statewide!
South Dakota Housing First-Time Homebuyer Program
Homeownership is closer than you think! Cover your upfront expenses with up to 3% of the loan amount, access education resources, and purchase homes up to $385,000. This is your step-by-step path to owning a home!
South Dakota Housing Grants for Grads Program
With this program, you can get a 5% grant for your down payment and closing costs! Available for recent grads (within the last 5 years) and first-time homebuyers. Take advantage of this program now!
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South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) Downpayment Assistance
Makes homeownership easier with a 0% interest on a second mortgage for down payments and closing costs. This program offers up to 5% of your loan amount. Best of all? There are no monthly payments, no extra fees, and the loan is only due when you sell the home or pay off your primary mortgage. This program is available statewide and has active funding.
Homes Are Possible Inc. Down Payment Closing Cost Assistance Program
You can get up to $5,000 to support your down payment and closing costs when buying a home. The best part is, there is no interest, so you won’t have to pay extra money on top of what you borrowed. You also only need to pay the funds back when you refinance your loan or move to a new home. This program is available across South Dakota. Apply now!
GROW South Dakota Down Payment or Closing Cost Assistance (DPA)
This program offers up to $7,500 to help you purchase your home. With a 0% interest rate and no monthly payments required, it’s an affordable way to achieve homeownership. Funding is available statewide!
South Dakota Housing First-Time Homebuyer Program
Homeownership is closer than you think! Cover your upfront expenses with up to 3% of the loan amount, access education resources, and purchase homes up to $385,000. This is your step-by-step path to owning a home!
South Dakota Housing Grants for Grads Program
With this program, you can get a 5% grant for your down payment and closing costs! Available for recent grads (within the last 5 years) and first-time homebuyers. Take advantage of this program now!
South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) Downpayment Assistance
Makes homeownership easier with a 0% interest on a second mortgage for down payments and closing costs. This program offers up to 5% of your loan amount. Best of all? There are no monthly payments, no extra fees, and the loan is only due when you sell the home or pay off your primary mortgage. This program is available statewide and has active funding.
Homes Are Possible Inc. Down Payment Closing Cost Assistance Program
You can get up to $5,000 to support your down payment and closing costs when buying a home. The best part is, there is no interest, so you won’t have to pay extra money on top of what you borrowed. You also only need to pay the funds back when you refinance your loan or move to a new home. This program is available across South Dakota. Apply now!
👥
Total Population
888,667
🗺️
Land area in square miles
75,807.9 square miles
📊
Rank of State by size
16
📍
State Capital
Pierre
💰
Median household income
$71,810
💵
Median home sale price
$385,538
🏘️
Total Housing Units
378,559
👥
Total Population
888,667
🗺️
Land area in square miles
75,807.9 square miles
📊
Rank of State by size
16
📍
State Capital
Pierre
💰
Median household income
$71,810
💵
Median home sale price
$385,538
🏘️
Total Housing Units
378,559
Census Data Snapshot for South Dakota
Crucial statistics and data about the state of South Dakota.
Big skies, open land, and a welcoming pace of life. South Dakota offers strong incomes, affordable homes, and plenty of space to make your next move feel like the right one.
Climate Overview
What’s the weather like in the state of South Dakota?
With warm summers, cool falls, and snowy winters, South Dakota’s climate gives you a reason to enjoy the outdoors all year. Each season brings its own rhythm and beauty.
Major Industries and Employment
What’s driving the economy of South Dakota?
South Dakota’s job market is steady and community-focused, with top employers like Avera Health leading the way. A strong network of businesses supports stable careers and a grounded way of life.
Largest Employer in State
- Employer: Avera Health
- Industry: Health Care
- Employer Headcount: 12,187
Total Employer Establishments
🏢 27,951
As of June 2025
Employment Type
Employee of private company workers
Self-employed in own incorporated business workers
Private not-for-profit wage and salary workers
Local, state, and federal government workers
Self-employed in own not incorporated business workers and unpaid family workers
Occupation
Management, business, science and arts occupations
Sales and office occupations
Service occupations
Production, transportation, and material moving occupations
Natural resources, construction, and maintenance occupations
As of June 2025
Home Affordability
Learn if you can afford a home in South Dakota.
Owning a home in South Dakota feels within reach for more people every day. The state offers a nice balance of income levels and home prices, creating more opportunities for first-time buyers and growing families. Community Home Investment Programs (CHIPs) can help you save money and move in sooner. Find the right fit for your budget and your goals.
Cities By Population
What are the biggest cities in South Dakota in terms of population?
South Dakota’s premier cities present a spectrum of living experiences, from rapidly expanding urban centers to tight-knit communities where friendly waves are still the norm. Discovering your perfect hometown is just one exciting part of the journey amidst these distinct locales.
City
Rank
Population as of 2025
Sioux Falls
1
215,058
Rapid City
2
82,388
Aberdeen
3
27,895
Brookings
4
24,947
Watertown
5
23,597
Yankton
6
15,765
Mitchell
7
15,593
Box Elder
8
15,156
Huron
9
14,856
Spearfish
10
13,988
School Rankings and
District Information
What are the best schools in South Dakota?
South Dakota is a place where education feels personal and community-focused. Schools across the state offer strong academics, creative programs, and supportive learning environments. Students have space to explore their interests, build confidence, and prepare for what comes next. It’s a setting where families feel connected and learning goes beyond the classroom.
Homes for Sale
Let’s find your dream home in South Dakota.
The state’s real estate market offers a wide mix of places to call home. You’ll find a variety of home styles and price points, with options that feel both practical and inviting. With steady listings and prices that stay within reach, finding the right fit feels easier and more rewarding.
State Fun Facts
Learn some fun trivia about the state of South Dakota.
South Dakota is full of surprises, stories, and one-of-a-kind sights. Check out these awesome facts that show off the state’s wild spirit, rich history, and unforgettable adventures!
Famous People from South Dakota
Who are the well-known personalities from South Dakota?
You never know where a star might be born. These well-known names all got their start in South Dakota, and they’ve been shining ever since.
Agency
Website
South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA)
South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs (SDDVA)
South Dakota Department of Revenue (DOR)
South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS)
South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR)
Government Resources
Find more information about housing and real estate in South Dakota.
Looking for guidance on homeownership or economic programs in South Dakota? These agencies can provide comprehensive information and connect you with the right local and federal resources.
Agency
Website
South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA)
South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs (SDDVA)
South Dakota Department of Revenue (DOR)
South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS)
South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR)
dlr.sd.gov
