Is South Dakota a good place to retire?
South Dakota is becoming an increasingly popular retirement destination for many Americans.
With its natural beauty, friendly communities, and low cost of living, South Dakota offers retirees a unique retirement experience that attracts many every year.
According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau in 2020, South Dakota had a population of approximately 900,000 people, with over 16% of the population over the age of 65.
South Dakota is an excellent choice for retirees looking for a low cost of living, abundant outdoor activities, and friendly communities. With its natural beauty, excellent healthcare, and range of retirement options, South Dakota has something to offer everyone.
Get expert financial advice
If you’re still unsure about where to retire, it’s wise to seek expert advice.
A financial advisor can review your finances and help you come up with a plan for your retirement that includes where to live, how much to save, and what your yearly budget should look like.
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Retiring in South Dakota: pros and cons
If you’re choosing South Dakota for retirement, you must weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of moving to the state. Here is a list of some of the most important pros and cons to consider:
The pros of retiring in South Dakota:
Low cost of living: South Dakota is known for its low cost of living, making it an ideal destination for retirees who want to stretch their retirement savings and live comfortably without breaking the bank. The state also has no state income tax and low property taxes.
Outdoor activities: South Dakota is home to some of the most spectacular natural attractions in the country, including the Badlands, Mount Rushmore, and the Black Hills. Retirees can take advantage of the state's abundant outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, camping, and golfing.
Friendly communities: South Dakota is known for its friendly communities and welcoming residents. Retirees who move to the state will find a strong sense of community, with plenty of opportunities to get involved in local events and activities.
Healthcare: South Dakota has a robust healthcare system, with several highly rated hospitals and medical centers located throughout the state. The state also has a number of senior care facilities, providing a range of options for retirees who need additional assistance.
South Dakota weather: South Dakota has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. While the winters can be harsh, the state's sunny summers make up for it. The state's diverse landscape also means that different parts of the state experience different weather patterns, providing a range of options for retirees who are looking for a particular climate.
Reasons not to move to South Dakota:
Limited cultural scene: While South Dakota has a rich history and culture, its cultural scene may not be as diverse or vibrant as other states.
Sparse population: South Dakota is a largely rural state, which may not be appealing to retirees who prefer the amenities and entertainment options of more urban areas.
Where are the best places to retire in South Dakota?
If South Dakota is your chosen retirement state, here are some of the best places to retire:
Sioux Falls: With a population of over 180,000 people, Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota and offers plenty of amenities for retirees, including shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural attractions. It also has a low cost of living, and its healthcare system is highly ranked.
Rapid City: Located in the Black Hills region, Rapid City is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. It has a population of just over 75,000 people and offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums and art galleries.
Spearfish: Situated in the northern part of the Black Hills, Spearfish is a small town with a population of just over 11,000 people. It offers a low cost of living, a mild climate, and plenty of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and skiing.
Brookings: Home to South Dakota State University, Brookings is a college town with a population of just over 24,000 people. It offers a low cost of living, a strong healthcare system, and a variety of cultural attractions, including theaters and museums.
Yankton: Located on the Missouri River, Yankton is a small town with a population of just over 14,000 people. It offers a low cost of living, a mild climate, and plenty of outdoor activities, including boating and fishing.
How much are retirement taxes in South Dakota?
There is no state income tax in South Dakota. This means income from your retirement savings accounts, such as your 401(K) or IRA, your pension, and Social Security will not be subject to state income tax.
As it does not tax personal income, you will also not pay capital gains tax on any investment profits.
Additionally, South Dakota does not impose inheritance or estate taxes on your beneficiaries, meaning you can pass on your assets without having to worry about your loved ones incurring a large tax bill.
You will, however, have to pay federal taxes on the above, depending on your unique situation.
What age can you retire in South Dakota?
Like many states, South Dakota has no specific retirement age that is mandated by law. This means that individuals are free to retire whenever they choose as long as they are able to support themselves financially.
However, there are some age-related benefits and considerations for retirees in South Dakota:
Social Security benefits: The earliest age at which you can begin receiving Social Security benefits is 62, but if you delay taking benefits, your monthly payments will increase. Full retirement age (FRA) is between 66 and 67, depending on your birth year. Delaying benefits until after FRA can result in even higher monthly payments.
Medicare eligibility: Medicare eligibility begins at age 65, regardless of retirement status. However, if you choose to retire before age 65, you will need to find alternative healthcare coverage until you become eligible for Medicare.
Age discrimination: It is illegal for employers to discriminate against employees or job applicants based on age.
Retirement savings: Regardless of retirement age, you must start saving for retirement as early as possible. Many financial experts recommend saving at least 15% of your income for retirement.
It's important to seek expert financial advice to weigh up all of the costs associated with retiring in South Dakota, including property taxes, insurance, and living expenses, in order to make an informed decision about whether the state is the right choice for your retirement.Find your SEC-regulated financial advisor here.
