Cost of Living in Fort Pierre, SD

With a cost of living index of 72, Fort Pierre, SD is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 28% cheaper than the national average and 3% below the South Dakota state average of 74. Fort Pierre is a small community of 2,534 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Fort Pierre's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $880 (33% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $166,700 (45% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 2.2x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Fort Pierre is $74,732, which is 1% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 14% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Fort Pierre. The area sees an average annual temperature of 47°F, with summers averaging 72°F and winters around 22°F. Annual rainfall totals 20.2 inches spread over roughly 90 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.