City Profile
South Sioux City, Nebraska
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
South Sioux City, located along the Missouri River in Dakota County, Nebraska, serves as a dynamic and culturally diverse hub in the tri-state area. Founded in the late 19th century and tightly linked economically and socially to nearby Sioux City, Iowa, the city has evolved into a vibrant community known for its strong industrial roots and welcoming atmosphere. People are drawn to South Sioux City for its blend of affordable Midwestern living, strong employment opportunities, and a rich multicultural community fabric that distinguishes it within the region.
Nebraska, known as the "Cornhusker State," offers a blend of rural charm and urban opportunities with a strong sense of community. Its economy is deeply rooted in agriculture, particularly corn, soybeans, and cattle production, but also boasts growing sectors in manufacturing, finance, insurance, healthcare, and transportation. The cost of living in Nebraska is generally lower than the national average, primarily due to more affordable housing. The state experiences a continental climate with hot summers, cold and snowy winters, and significant seasonal temperature variations, with the eastern part being more humid and the western part semi-arid. Residents often enjoy a relaxed pace of life, friendly communities, and access to outdoor activities, though major entertainment and nightlife options are more concentrated in larger cities like Omaha and Lincoln.
How this 68/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 70 / 100 | 70.0 | 30% | 21.0 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 88.0 | 58.8 | 25% | 14.7 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $68,223 Income needed to live here: $42,000 Unemployment rate: 3.5% | 90.6 | 20% | 18.1 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.9% Job growth rate: 1.5% | 48.8 | 15% | 7.3 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 69 / 100 | 69.0 | 10% | 6.9 |
| Overall score | 68.0 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (q=65, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
11 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in South Sioux City is notably lower than the national average, making it an attractive destination for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Housing costs, grocery prices, and utility expenses all trend well below standard U.S. benchmarks, allowing residents' incomes to stretch further. While regional inflation and rising property values have introduced minor upward pressures in recent years, the overall economic climate remains exceptionally manageable compared to larger metropolitan hubs.
Income
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South Sioux City features a robust economy anchored heavily by manufacturing, food processing, logistics, and healthcare services. Major regional employers provide steady employment opportunities spanning production, technical fields, and white-collar support roles. The local job market benefits from its close proximity to the broader Sioux City metropolitan area, facilitating seamless commuting and a diverse array of professional pathways. While traditional industries dominate, small business growth and entrepreneurial support initiatives continue to foster steady local economic resilience.
The average salary in South Sioux City is $54,000 per year. You would need approximately $42,000 to live comfortably.
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Getting around South Sioux City is heavily car-dependent, though the compact size of the city ensures remarkably short average commute times of around 12 minutes. Major highways provide rapid connectivity to the wider tri-state metropolitan network, making regional travel straightforward for commuters. While public transit options are limited compared to major urban centers, low traffic congestion ensures smooth daily driving conditions.
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