Lead, SD vs Miller, SD
There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Miller is 23.4% cheaper than Lead. With a cost index of 59 vs 73, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Miller to Lead should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.
On the housing front, median rent in Lead is $844/month compared to $546/month in Miller — a 55% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Miller is more affordable at $135,100 median vs $192,800.
Median household income in Lead is $57,348 compared to $51,774 in Miller (+10.8%). Lead does offer higher incomes, but the salary premium barely offsets the higher cost of living, leaving residents with a tighter budget. Looking at affordability, residents of Lead spend roughly 17.7% of their income on rent, more than the 12.7% in Miller.
Climate-wise, Miller is notably warmer with an average of 45.9°F compared to 41.1°F in Lead. Lead receives more rainfall at 29.2" per year compared to 23.3" in Miller.
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Climate
NOAA 30-year normals (1991-2020)