City Profile
Vermillion, South Dakota
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Vermillion, South Dakota, is a vibrant and historic community nestled along the bluffs of the Missouri River in the southeastern corner of the state. Founded in 1859, it is the home of the University of South Dakota, which infuses the city with a youthful energy, cultural events, and academic vitality. The town beautifully balances a small-town Midwestern charm with the amenities and intellectual engagement typically found in larger university hubs. Residents and newcomers are drawn to Vermillion for its safe neighborhoods, friendly atmosphere, and strong sense of community pride.
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 67/100 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): 88.0 | 58.8 | 25% | 14.7 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $53,200 Income needed to live here: $45,000 Unemployment rate: 2.8% | 68.9 | 20% | 13.8 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.8% Job growth rate: 1.5% | 47.5 | 15% | 7.1 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 68 / 100 | 68.0 | 10% | 6.8 |
| Overall score | 67.0 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (q=52, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
15 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 Vermillion remains comfortably below the national average, making it an attractive destination for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Housing costs, in particular, are notably affordable compared to larger metropolitan areas across the United States, allowing residents to secure comfortable homes or apartments without excessive financial strain. Everyday expenses such as groceries, utilities, and transportation also track below national benchmarks, contributing to an overall high level of financial accessibility.
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Vermillion’s economy is anchored by higher education, healthcare, public administration, and manufacturing. The University of South Dakota serves as the city's largest employer, driving significant employment in education, research, and campus services. Additionally, Sanford Vermillion Medical Center and local manufacturing firms provide steady job opportunities and support a stable regional economy. The community also fosters a supportive environment for small businesses and local entrepreneurs looking to establish roots in a reliable market.
The average salary in Vermillion is $54,000 per year. You would need approximately $45,000 to live comfortably.
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Getting around Vermillion is straightforward, with manageable traffic patterns and short commute times that rarely exceed fifteen minutes. While the city is largely car-dependent, its compact layout and university campus make certain areas highly walkable and friendly to bicyclists. Regional highways provide convenient access to larger commercial hubs like Sioux City and Sioux Falls.
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