Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sioux Falls, SD
Thinking of moving to Sioux Falls, SD? With a population of about 202,600, Sioux Falls offers affordable living, with a median home price around $312,000 and average rent near $1,080. The city boasts short average commutes of 17 minutes, a robust job market, and excellent access to healthcare. Residents enjoy 62% sunny days annually, good educational opportunities, and a friendly Midwestern vibe. Explore the city’s cost of living, crime rates, schools, and more below to see if Sioux Falls is your next home.
Demographics - Sioux Falls, SD
Demographics - Sioux Falls, SD
Sioux Falls is home to approximately 202,600 residents with a median age of 35.1, reflecting a youthful yet balanced community. The city is predominantly White (80.9%), with growing diversity and nearly 9% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Moderate population density and a near-equal gender ratio add to the city's welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
202,600
Density:
2,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.1
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.6%

Ethnic Composition
White:
80.9%
Black:
6.6%
Asian:
2.6%
Others:
9.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Sioux Falls, SD?
Living in Sioux Falls is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index of 88.5—well below the national average. The median home value stands at $312,000, and average rent is $1,080, making it an affordable choice for both homeowners and renters. Residents also benefit from low utility costs and no state income tax.
Median House Value:
$312,000
Gross Rent:
$1,080
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,580
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$490
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.5
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
81.4
Utilities:
94.8
Transportation:
84.1
Health Care:
96.7
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Sioux Falls, SD a safe place to live?
Sioux Falls experiences a moderate crime environment, with a violent crime rate of 540 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 3,420 per 100,000. While the risk of property crime is higher than the national average, the chance of being a victim of violent crime remains relatively low at 1 in 185. Community safety initiatives and active law enforcement help maintain a secure atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
540
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,420
Crime Index:
3,960
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 185
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 29
Weather
What is the weather like in Sioux Falls, SD year-round?
The city experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters dipping to 7°F and warm summers reaching highs of 84°F. Sioux Falls enjoys 62% sunny days throughout the year and receives about 26.6 inches of annual rainfall. Residents can expect crisp falls and mild springs, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
28°F

Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
63°F

Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
84°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
26.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Sioux Falls features a median household income of $73,700 and a low unemployment rate of 2.4%, indicating strong economic stability. The area boasts high educational attainment, with nearly 94% of adults holding at least a high school diploma. Short average commute times of 17.4 minutes and a low poverty rate contribute to a high quality of life.
Median Income:
$39,700
Household Income:
$73,700
Family Income:
$95,400
Per Capita Income:
$36,200
Income Male:
$50,400
Income Female:
$41,800
Poverty Rate:
8.9%
Non English Speakers:
8.6%
Rent:
$1,080
Unemployment Rate:
2.4%
Public Transport Usage:
1.1%
Commute Time:
17.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.9%
Bachelors or More:
34.8%
Education
How are the schools in Sioux Falls, SD?
Sioux Falls boasts a robust educational landscape, including well-regarded public schools such as Lincoln High School and Eugene Field Elementary, alongside private options like O'Gorman High School. The city is also home to higher education institutions, including Augustana University and the University of Sioux Falls. With a strong commitment to academic excellence, families benefit from diverse and high-quality educational opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Sioux Falls Lincoln High School
Street:
2900 S Cliff Ave
Phone:
605-367-7990
Students:
2,030
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.1
Name:
Eugene Field Elementary School
Street:
1400 S Duluth Ave
Phone:
605-367-6140
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4

Private Schools
Name:
O'Gorman High School
Street:
3201 S Kiwanis Ave
Phone:
605-336-3644
Students:
750

Colleges
Name:
Augustana University
City:
Sioux Falls
State:
SD
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,100
Name:
University of Sioux Falls
City:
Sioux Falls
State:
SD
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,500
Healthcare
Residents have access to top-tier medical facilities, including Sanford USD Medical Center and Avera McKennan Hospital, ensuring comprehensive healthcare services. With 2.4 physicians per 1,000 people and over 92% health insurance coverage, quality and accessibility are strong points. The city's healthcare index reflects reliable care and a well-supported medical community.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Sanford USD Medical Center
Address:
1305 W 18th St, Sioux Falls, SD 57105
Phone:
(605) 333-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center
Address:
1325 S Cliff Ave, Sioux Falls, SD 57105
Phone:
(605) 322-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.6%
Health Care Index:
72.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Sioux Falls, SD?
Sioux Falls offers a stable housing market, with a median home price of $312,000 and 60.5% owner-occupancy. Rental options remain accessible, with average two-bedroom rent at $1,080 and a low vacancy rate of 4.7%. Home values have appreciated by 6.3% over the past year, reflecting healthy market growth.
Median Home Price:
$312,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,080
Owner Occupied Rate:
60.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Driver licensing and vehicle services in Sioux Falls are managed by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, with accessible resources both online and at the Pierre main office. Residents can find comprehensive DMV information, including licensing and registration, through the state's official website. The system is designed for convenience and efficiency for new and existing residents.
State:
South Dakota
Department:
South Dakota Department of Public Safety - Driver Licensing
Address:
118 W Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD 57501
Phone:
1-605-773-6883
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.