Thinking of relocating to South Dakota? This state might have a lot of natural beauty however you may need to take a closer look and see if this place aligns with your lifestyle.
In this guide, we’ll outline 10 reasons not to move to South Dakota.
For those of you who do not already know, South Dakota is a state in the United States of America.
It is a largely and expansive, yet thinly populated midwestern U.S. state.
This is the state which is home to the famous dramatic Black Hills National Forest. The Black Hills is also home to two historical monuments, artistically carved right into towering granite peaks: Mt. Rushmore, and Crazy Horse Memorial, a tribute to the storied Native American tribal leader.
It is now curious to wonder why such a historic state, with significant landmarks and historical monuments, will have an estimate of 909,000 (Nine Hundred Thousand) residents.
Just like any other state, South Dakota has its advantages as well as its downside. Not everyone can fit into this place.
So in this article, we shall delve into various reasons not to move to South Dakota. The purpose of this is to provide you with information to make your decision on relocating to this state certain.
Let’s Begin!
How is the employment situation in South Dakota?
The labor market in South Dakota has some distinctive features but is generally stable. The most recent data and labor market trends should be checked for the most recent information because it’s important to remember that economic conditions might change. The South Dakota job market has the following important characteristics:
Economic opportunities are limited: Unlike other states, South Dakota has limited economic opportunities.
important contributions are from a number of industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and education. The stability of the economy has benefited from this diversification.
Low Unemployment: In comparison to the national average, South Dakota has generally maintained lower unemployment rates. Regions within the state may, however, have different specific rates.
Farming and ranching are important sectors in South Dakota’s agricultural sector, which is essential to the state’s economy. Jobs in crop cultivation, cattle farming, and allied agribusinesses are provided by this industry.
Is Dakota a Reliable Place to Reside?
As previously mentioned, based on your specific interests and priorities, South Dakota is a good area to reside.
The low cost of living in this state is, nonetheless, a positive. One of the less expensive US states is South Dakota. You may engage in some fantastic outdoor activities and discover this state’s breathtaking surroundings.
In addition, compared to many other states, the crime rate is far lower.
Therefore, you might be asking why someone might choose not to reside in South Dakota.
So Let’s find out!
10 Reasons Not To Move To South Dakota
This state might have its advantages and also its downside. Here are the reasons not to move to South Dakota.
1. Intense Winters
If you cannot withstand harsh winters with cold temperatures then you cannot stay in South Dakota.
The cold in South Dakota is unlike the cold everywhere else in the country.
You experience severely cold temperatures in addition to persistent winds that gust between 25 and 40 miles per hour.
In Spearfish, South Dakota, where stream water historically ran over frozen ground, the area is famed for its drastic temperature swings.
Anyone unfamiliar with living in minus 30 degrees Fahrenheit or 20-foot or higher snow drifts will find this challenging and dangerous.
The wind is one factor that contributes to how horrible the winters are. Due to the fact that South Dakota is a state of the prairies and plains, the terrain is quite flat. Later, we’ll cover why that actually serves as more of a con. This causes it to be quite windy a lot of the time. There are a number of unpleasant things that can result from the wind.
It can be highly dangerous to travel or even to be outside in the winter since the wind sweeps snow over the road and even horizontally through the air, reducing visibility.
2. Cultural Diversity Is Limited
If you’re looking for a vibrant state with different types of cultures, then you shouldn’t be in Dakota.
Despite the fact that America is becoming more diverse, South Dakota continues to be one of the least diverse states in the US.
The distance between each tiny town and the next highway or other town is around 50 miles.
South Dakota is more rural than any other state in terms of communities, with just Rapid City in the west, Sioux Falls in the east, Pierre, and Chamberlain in the state’s center.
You won’t fit in very well in South Dakota if you have trouble with the small-town feel.
3. Economic Opportunities Are Limited
South Dakota actually has a stable economy but it might not be as much as other states.
South Dakota may have fewer job opportunities compared to larger urban areas, particularly in certain industries. This means that although they have a very low unemployment rate, they are mostly limited to jobs in the agricultural value chain. This is a problem for those in other fields.
So before you come to this state you need to be certain on your career plan.
The majority of occupations in Sioux Falls also don’t pay very well.. Most people’s compensation, particularly in the teaching industry, is insufficient to cover living expenses, much alone allow them to save money for the future. You shouldn’t relocate to this location if you enjoy splurging on material goods or have prioritized retirement savings.
4. Accessibility To Healthcare
It can be quite challenging to be able to receive good healthcare especially in rural areas. So if you need specialized medical care you’d have to travel to urban areas or even to a nearby state.
5. Limited Entertainment Options
If you need a state with vibrant nightlife and various kinds of entertainment then you shouldn’t come to South Dakota.
As a result of the dispersed nature of the population here. Additionally, it may be far to get to neighboring towns.
So, options for buying outside of Walmart are restricted. and tiny shops with limited selections.
There aren’t many nightlife activities either. excluding bars. With many establishments shutting down by five o’clock.
6.Dry Summers
In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the summers are very oppressive and humid. Sioux Falls’ summers, which feature heat waves and dry weather, are on the opposite extreme of the temperature range from its relatively frigid winters.
Due to how dry it is, officials may even issue fire warnings.
During the summer, it is difficult to work outside due to the heat and humidity.
Heat exhaustion is a genuine condition, particularly in a state that is heavily reliant on agriculture. There isn’t much shade to shield people from sunburns and other heat-related risks.
7. Ticks are a typical pest.
Common pests like ticks can be quite dangerous to both people and pets. They propagate illnesses like Lyme disease, which scientists and medical professionals still don’t fully comprehend.
You could not even become aware that you have been bitten by a tick for weeks because they are both exceedingly difficult to spot with the naked eye and difficult to kill. Don’t relocate to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, if you don’t want to run the danger of getting a tick bite.
8. There are No State Teams in Sports
Manchester, London, Madrid, Chicago, what do these names remind you of? Cities with major sports franchises, like Manchester United, or Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea in London, Real or Atletico Madrid in Madrid and Chicago Bulls in Chicago. Sadly in South Dakota, they do not have sports franchises. Life must be very boring there.
The cost of major league sports teams cannot be supported in South Dakota due to a lack of resources or population.
The state does not have a Major League Baseball or National Football League franchise, and this is evident despite the fact that people like watching minor league baseball and hockey.
The majority of people have vacations where they watch sporting events.
9.Not Many Teenage Activities
Teenagers find the situation to be incredibly uninteresting because there aren’t many activities other than exploring fields, as was already described. Teenagers who don’t have anything to do are more likely to cause general mayhem and run afoul of the law.
10. Few hours separate you from larger cities.
Larger cities with more attractions are many hours away and frequently located in different states. Traveling here to discover new things to do or even to finish necessary shopping trips is not sustainable. The majority of your purchases will need to be sent to you, and delivery times are unpredictable.It’s not an exaggeration how remote Sioux Falls, South Dakota, is.
What other reasons not to move to South Dakota?
Natural Disaster Risks: The state is susceptible to natural disasters, including floods and blizzards.
Limited Public Transportation: Public transportation options are limited in many parts of the state, making car ownership a necessity for most residents.
Distance from Major Cities: South Dakota is far from major metropolitan areas, which can make traveling to larger cities for various needs more time-consuming and costly.
Politics: The Conservative party has held sway and controlled the state politics for too long and those more left-leaning, seem to be running away from South Dakota to places with more liberal ideologies in politics.
Conclusion
South Dakota has its great advantages and natural beauty. However, there are lots of things you need to consider before you make a move down to this state.
If you’re seeking vibrant nightlife with a diversity of cultural diversity, then you should think twice about coming to South Dakota.
In this article, we’ve pointed out some of the advantages of South Dakota as well as the reasons not to move to South Dakota.
FAQs
Does South Dakota require you to pay state taxes annually?
No, when you file your annual tax return with the IRS, South Dakota is one of the few states where you are exempt from paying state income tax.
What is South Dakota’s rate of property crime like?
They are low, which is interesting. This is significant given that most locals in the center of the town do not even secure their homes or cars.
How hot does South Dakota get?
In addition to having extremely harsh winters, South Dakota also experiences 213 sunny days per year.
How much snow should I really expect in South Dakota?
The average amount of snowfall in the state is 39 inches.
Even small villages in rural areas have snow plows that clear the roadways.
These plows leave hefty snowdrifts that are 12 to 18 feet high near sidewalks and roads.
Children on sleds and visitors from out of town who want to take a wild snow selfie adore the piles of snow!
What South Dakotan city has the lowest cost of living?
Many communities and villages in South Dakota have a comparatively low cost of living compared to national averages, and the state is well renowned for its affordability. Some places, nevertheless, are more reasonably priced. Here are a handful of the South Dakota cities where rent is the lowest:
- Brookings: South Dakota State University is located in Brookings, which has a moderate cost of living and a variety of cheap housing options. Both the job market and the local community are robust in the city.
- Watertown: Watertown is yet another low-cost city in South Dakota. With chances in manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture, its economy is broad.
- Huron: Huron offers a reasonably priced place to live and is noted for its agriculture business. This city has relatively low housing expenses.
- Vermillion: Vermillion’s cultural diversity is enhanced by the presence of the University of South Dakota there. Particularly for academics and students, the cost of living in this area is relatively affordable.
- Spearfish: This picturesque Black Hills town blends affordability with unmatched natural beauty. In comparison to several larger South Dakota cities, the community offers a vibrant outdoor recreation sector and a reduced cost of living.
- Pierre: With a strong sense of community and a low cost of living, Pierre serves as the state capital. It has a steady work market, which is primarily supported by the public and medical industries.
- Rapid City (parts): Although Rapid City is one of South Dakota’s largest cities, some parts of the city may have a lower cost of living than others. Researching particular Rapid City neighborhoods might help you uncover economical options.
- Yankton: This is a historic community with an inviting downtown and a reasonable cost of living. It is still reasonably priced while providing a variety of features.
- Aberdeen: Aberdeen has a thriving job market and a diverse economy with an emphasis on manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and education. In general, housing is affordable.
- Mitchell: This is known for the Corn Palace, is a desirable alternative for people who value small-town life because it has a low cost of living.
What do people in South Dakota do for a living?
South Dakota boasts a thriving job market and is among the least expensive areas to live. Agriculture, mining and electricity, and manufacturing are the main three sectors.
Additionally, the state’s unemployment rate is low—compared to the national average indicating that many people in the state have steady employment.
What is the dominant sector in South Dakota?
The state’s primary industry, agriculture, continues to have a solid foundation. Hay, sunflowers, rye, honey, soybeans, corn, wheat, and livestock production consistently place South Dakota among the top 10 states in the nation. Additionally, a big contributor that generates money annually is tourism.
