Rent Affordability for South Dakota (2026)
South Dakota (SD) Key Facts
Average 1 B R Rent
$800
Median Monthly Income
$5,167
Recommended Max Rent (30% Rule)
$1,550
Affordability Gap
Affordable
Rent to Income Ratio
15.5%
How This Calculator Works in South Dakota
This rent affordability calculator helps you determine how much rent you can reasonably afford in South Dakota based on your income and the 30% rule. Enter your monthly income and desired rent to see whether your housing costs are within a healthy range. The calculator also shows how your situation compares to the South Dakota average.
South Dakota Overview
With a median household income of $63,000, South Dakota residents can afford roughly $1,575/month in rent under the 30% guideline. Average 1-bedroom rent is about $800/month. South Dakota has no state income tax, which means renters keep more of their paycheck, effectively improving rent affordability compared to states with income taxes.
How South Dakota Compares
South Dakota's rent-to-income ratio of 15.5% is within the recommended 30% range. In neighboring North Dakota, the ratio is 15.7%. Nationally, about half of renters spend more than 30% of their income on housing, highlighting the widespread challenge of rental affordability.
| State | Top Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $850 | Average 1BR rent is $850 with median monthly income of $5,417. The 30% rule allows $1,625 for rent, which covers average rent. |
| Nebraska | $950 | Average 1BR rent is $950 with median monthly income of $5,417. The 30% rule allows $1,625 for rent, which covers average rent. |
| Minnesota | $1,100 | Average 1BR rent is $1,100 with median monthly income of $6,417. The 30% rule allows $1,925 for rent, which covers average rent. |
In South Dakota, the median household earns $62,000 annually ($5,167 per month). Using the 30% rule, the recommended maximum rent is $1,550 per month. With average 1BR rents at $800, rents are within the recommended affordability range. Nationally, about half of renters are considered cost-burdened (paying more than 30% of income on housing).
Tips for South Dakota Residents
- 1The 30% rule suggests spending no more than 30% of gross income on rent. In South Dakota, with a median household income of $63,000, the maximum recommended rent is about $1,575/month.
- 2Average 1-bedroom rent in South Dakota is roughly $800/month. This is within or near the 30% guideline for the median household, indicating reasonable affordability at the state level.
- 3South Dakota has no state income tax, which means renters keep more of their paycheck, effectively improving rent affordability compared to states with income taxes.
- 4Beyond rent, budget for utilities ($100-$300/month), renters insurance ($15-$30/month), and any parking or pet fees. These can add 10-20% on top of your base rent in South Dakota.
- 5If you are spending more than 30% of income on rent in South Dakota, look into housing assistance programs such as Section 8 vouchers, state-funded rental assistance, or employer housing benefits.