City Profile
Tea, South Dakota
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Tea, South Dakota, located in Lincoln County just southwest of Sioux Falls, has evolved from a quiet rural railroad town into one of the fastest-growing communities in the state. Characterized by its welcoming Midwestern charm, friendly neighborhoods, and excellent local school district, it attracts families and professionals looking for a safe, suburban lifestyle within close proximity to a major job market. The city's rapid expansion brings modern housing developments while preserving a strong community-first ethos that defines small-town South Dakota.
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 79/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 85 / 100 | 85.0 | 30% | 25.5 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 96.0 | 48.8 | 25% | 12.2 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $88,500 Income needed to live here: $52,000 Unemployment rate: 2.4% | 97.5 | 20% | 19.5 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 4.5% Job growth rate: 3.2% | 92.0 | 15% | 13.8 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 75 / 100 | 75.0 | 10% | 7.5 |
| Overall score | 78.5 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 2 (reasoned) (q=54, 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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Performance
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Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Tea is slightly below the national average, making it an attractive option for homeowners and renters seeking affordability without sacrificing modern amenities. While housing costs have risen alongside rapid regional growth, utility, grocery, and transportation expenses remain reasonable compared to major U.S. metropolitan areas. Residents also benefit from South Dakota's lack of a state personal income tax, which further enhances household purchasing power.
Income
Salary Insights
Tea's local economy benefits immensely from its proximity to Sioux Falls, allowing residents easy access to a diverse regional job market anchored by healthcare, financial services, and advanced manufacturing. Major local employment sectors within Tea itself include construction, local government, retail trade, and light manufacturing/logistics. The entrepreneurial climate is robust, supported by low state corporate tax rates and a pro-business regulatory environment.
The average salary in Tea is $64,000 per year. You would need approximately $52,000 to live comfortably.
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Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Tea is highly car-dependent, with most residents relying on personal vehicles for daily commutes and errands via nearby Interstate 29. The average commute time is short, as the drive into downtown Sioux Falls takes less than 15 minutes. While public transit options within the town itself are minimal, the street layout is pedestrian-friendly within residential subdivisions.
At a Glance
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Questions about Tea
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