Cost of Living in Aberdeen, SD

With a cost of living index of 72, Aberdeen, SD is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 28% cheaper than the national average and in line with the South Dakota state average. With a population of 28,297, Aberdeen is a mid-sized community that balances access to services with a more manageable cost of living compared to larger metros.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Aberdeen's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $783 (41% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $205,500 (33% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3.2x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Aberdeen is $63,715, which is 15% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 15% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Aberdeen. The area sees an average annual temperature of 44°F, with summers averaging 70°F and winters around 16°F. Annual rainfall totals 21.8 inches spread over roughly 98 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.