City Profile
Pierre, South Dakota
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Pierre is the capital city of South Dakota, located centrally in Hughes County along the picturesque Missouri River. Founded in 1880 and established as the state capital upon South Dakota's admission to the Union in 1889, the city serves as the vital political and administrative heart of the state. Characterized by a close-knit Midwestern community feel, Pierre offers residents a blend of small-town charm and the unique opportunities inherent in a seat of government. People frequently move to the area for stable public sector employment, excellent outdoor recreation along the river and Lake Oahe, and a peaceful, family-friendly pace of life.
South Dakota, located in the upper Midwest, is characterized by its vast landscapes and a population density among the lowest in the U.S.. The state's economy is primarily driven by agriculture, including crop production and livestock, but also benefits from growing sectors like manufacturing, financial services, and tourism, with attractions such as Mount Rushmore. Living in South Dakota is generally affordable, with a cost of living approximately 8% lower than the national average and no state income tax. The climate features hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters, and residents often enjoy a quieter, nature-centric lifestyle with abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.
How this 68/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 82 / 100 | 82.0 | 30% | 24.6 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 92.0 | 53.8 | 25% | 13.4 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $67,000 Income needed to live here: $48,000 Unemployment rate: 2.8% | 82.2 | 20% | 16.4 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.4% Job growth rate: 1.5% | 42.5 | 15% | 6.4 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 68 / 100 | 68.0 | 10% | 6.8 |
| Overall score | 67.7 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (q=52, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
16 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 Pierre generally tracks slightly below the national average, making it an attractive and affordable destination for individuals and families alike. Housing costs, utilities, and everyday goods tend to be more reasonable than in larger metropolitan areas across the United States. While certain specialized goods or transport costs can experience slight elevations due to the city's relatively isolated geographic location, overall expenses remain manageable for most residents.
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Pierre's economy is anchored heavily by public administration, state government operations, education, and healthcare services. As the capital of South Dakota, state agencies and related government contracting provide a robust foundation of stable employment opportunities. Additionally, retail trade, agriculture support, and tourism—bolstered by exceptional hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation along the Missouri River—play substantial roles in the local economic landscape.
The average salary in Pierre is $58,000 per year. You would need approximately $48,000 to live comfortably.
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Getting around Pierre is primarily accomplished by automobile, with well-maintained roadways and very minimal traffic delays compared to larger urban areas. Public transit options are limited, meaning car ownership or reliance on personal vehicles is standard for daily commuting and errands. Walkability and bikeability are quite manageable in the downtown district and surrounding residential neighborhoods.
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