Cost of Living in Highmore, SD

With a cost of living index of 72, Highmore, 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. Highmore is a small community of 717 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Highmore's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $1,042 (21% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $111,500 (63% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.1x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Highmore is $99,500, which is 32% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 13% 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 Highmore. 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.