Cost of Living in Pierre, SD

With a cost of living index of 78, Pierre, SD is a very affordable place to live. Living here is 22% cheaper than the national average and 3% above the South Dakota state average of 74. Pierre is a smaller community of 14,008 residents, where everyday costs can differ substantially from nearby larger cities.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Pierre's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $936 (29% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $219,500 (28% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 3x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Pierre is $74,053, which is 1% 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.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to 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.