By Kim Franke-Folstad

(Last Updated – November 5, 2024)

You might visit Ohio to check out legendary tourist sites like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and Cedar Point amusement park. But the state’s friendly people, scenery, and cool (but still affordable) cities like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati also can make it a great place to live.

The Buckeye State has long been known for its midwestern hospitality, affordability, and quality of life. And if you’re a sports fan, you’ll easily find a college or pro team to cheer for — whether you’re into baseball, football, basketball, hockey, soccer, or all of the above.

Read on to learn more about the cost of living in Ohio, and if it might be a good fit for you.

What’s the Average Cost of Living in Ohio?

Average Cost of Living in Ohio: $47,768 per year

If you’re looking for a midwestern state with a mid-range cost of living, Ohio may be the place for you. It ranks 22nd in the U.S. for cost of living, according to data from the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC). That makes it pretty close in cost to neighbors Pennsylvania (25th) and Kentucky (18th); but a little more expensive than nearby Michigan (11th), Indiana (9th), and West Virginia (which has the lowest cost of living in the country).

What is the cost of living in Ohio? According to 2022 data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis , the annual average cost of living in Ohio is $47,768. Based on that number, it would cost $3,674 per month to live in the Buckeye State.

Here’s how that brekas down into major categories.

Housing Costs in Ohio

Average Housing Costs in Ohio: $832 to $1,557 per month

Housing is one of the biggest costs you’ll encounter no matter where you live, but according to MERIC data, housing costs in Ohio are below the national average. That’s good news whether you’re buying your first home or a sweet retirement spot.

Ohio has more than 5 million housing units, according to the latest Census data. And whether you rent or buy, you still may have a shot at finding a place for less than $1,500 a month. Zillow lists the typical Ohio home value at about $231,710, compared with a U.S. national average home value of around $360,000.

Here’s what monthly housing prices can look like in Ohio, according to the latest Census data from 2023:

•  Median monthly home loan cost: $1,429

•  Median studio rent: $832

•  Median one-bedroom rent: $820

•  Median two-bedroom rent: $1,063

•  Median three-bedroom rent: $1,179

•   Median four-bedroom rent: $1,260

•   Median five-bedroom (or more) rent: $1,282

•   Median four-bedroom rent: $1,014

Of course, Ohio home prices can vary significantly depending on where you are in the state. Both the state and local nonprofits often have programs, including down payment assistance programs, to help cover some costs for those who qualify as a first-time homebuyer, so look into those if you are interested in purchasing a home in Ohio. Here are the average home values in 10 major Ohio cities, according to Zillow.

Utility Costs in Ohio

Average Utility Costs in Ohio: $400 per month

Once you’ve got your housing costs covered, there’s still the utility bills to consider. Costs can vary based on location and time of year, but here’s a look at what you can expect to spend monthly in Ohio.

Sources: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Electric Sales, Revenue, and Average Price, 2021; Inspirecleanenergy.com; DoxoInsights, U.S. Cable & Internet Market Size and Household Spending Report 2022; and Rentcafe.com, What Is the Average Water Bill?

Groceries & Food

Average Grocery & Food Costs in Ohio: $342 per person, per month

Another ongoing expense for individuals and families is buying groceries and eating out. Along with your personal food choices and family size, where you live also can affect how much you’ll spend on food.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis estimates that the average Ohioan’s non-restaurant food cost is $4,106 annually, or about $342 per month. That means a family of four can expect to spend about $1,369 on groceries each month.

The Council for Community and Economic Research , which ranks the food costs in major American cities, ranked Ohio cities from lowest to highest for their grocery costs from the first quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024.

Transportation

Average Transportation Costs in Ohio: $9,911 to $16,605 per year

At least two Ohio cities, Columbus and Cleveland, have been named among the top cities for U.S. commuters in recent years. Still, transportation costs can be a budget-buster, depending on the current price of gas and whether you have access to public transportation.

Family size, including the number of working adults in the home, also can be a factor in how much your transportation costs will be in Ohio. The following results from MIT’s Living Wage Calculator , with data from the first quarter of 2024, can give you a general idea of what to expect when it comes to costs.

Health Care

Average Health Care Costs in Ohio: $8,770 per person, per year

Your health care needs, as well as your insurance coverage, will help determine how much you end up paying for care each year for yourself and your family. But according to the 2022 Bureau of Economic Analysis Personal Consumption Expenditures by State report, the annual cost of health care per Ohioan is $8,770.

Child Care

Average Child Care Costs in Ohio: $763 to $1,060 or more per child, per month

Having kids can have a major impact on your budget, and child care could be one of the biggest expenses you’ll have to manage. In Ohio, the price you pay for care may depend on how old your child is and whether or not you choose home-based family care.

Here are the average child care costs in Ohio, per the most recent data from CostofChildCare.org .

Taxes

Highest Marginal Tax Rate in Ohio: 3.5%

Ohio residents get a bit of a break when it comes to state income taxes. At 3.5%, Ohio’s highest marginal state income tax rate is lower than many other states in the Midwest and in the U.S., as noted by the Tax Foundation . (If you want to live in a state that has no income tax, you may want to consider living in Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, or Wyoming.)

Miscellaneous Costs

Now that we’ve covered the essentials (food, housing, utilities, etc.), let’s turn our attention to the fun stuff.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Ohio, whether you’re into sports, music, grabbing a bite to eat, or enjoying the great outdoors. Here’s a look at how you might spend some of your discretionary funds as an Ohio resident:

•  A day at one of Ohio’s 74 state parks: There is no cost for using park trails, picnic areas, and other facilities at state parks. (There are fees for camping and golfing, however.)

•  Admission to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Prices range from free for kids 5 and under to $35 for adults; discounts are available for Cleveland and Northeast Ohio residents, college students, and members of the military.

•  Single-game ticket to a Cleveland Cavaliers NBA game: Tickets generally run from about $47 each (for nosebleed seats) to $1,000+ (on the floor).

•  Cincinnati-style chili at Skyline Chili: It costs about $10 for a “Loaded Bowl.”

•  A day at the Columbus Zoo: One-day tickets are $28 for kids 3-9, $33.99 for 60+, and $35 for anyone 10-59; Franklin County, Ohio, residents get a discount.

Recommended: What Are the Average Monthly Expenses for One Person?

How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in Ohio?

We all have different wants and needs, so it’s hard to say exactly how much money you might require to maintain a lifestyle that’s comfortable for you in Ohio (or anywhere). But Ohio has a pretty good rep for affordability when compared to the cost of living in other states. U.S. News & World Report Affordability Rankings named Ohio as the 16th most affordable state in 2024. And remember, MERIC’s cost of living data also ranked Ohio as one of the more affordable states, at #22. So if you think Ohio sounds like a good match for you based on job opportunities, the things you like to do, and the type of home you hope to have, you may be able to live comfortably there.

What Ohio Cities Have the Lowest Cost of Living?

These three Ohio cities all have a low cost of living, according to the Council for Community and Economic Research Cost of Living Index from the first quarter of 2023 to the first quarter of 2024. Find more bargains in a guide to the Best Affordable Places in the U.S.

Cleveland

Cleveland is probably best known for its sports teams (NFL, NBA, and MLB) and its tourist attractions. But Ohio’s second-largest city is also a major port, and several large companies are based there, including Progressive, Sherwin Williams, and American Greetings. The city has several walkable neighborhoods, amazing downtown architecture, and is the home of the well-regarded Cleveland Symphony and the Cleveland Museum of Art. And yet, Cleveland’s cost-of-living index (91.3) is relatively low compared to other metro areas. Zillow reported an average home value of $234,371 in August 2024.

Columbus

Columbus, Ohio’s capital and most populous city, also has a low cost of living index (92.8) for a city with so much to offer. It’s the home of Ohio State University, one of the largest universities by enrollment in the U.S. There’s also a lively business district and, thanks to its younger demographic, plenty to do for fun — from taking in the vibrant bar and restaurant scene in the Short North Arts District to visiting the many parks and gardens throughout the city and its surrounding area. As noted above, Zillow reported an average home value of $316,825 in August 2024.

Findlay

The city of Findlay, which is about 40 miles south of Toledo, is much smaller than Cleveland or Columbus, and it’s in a more rural part of the state. Still, in many ways, it’s more metro-y than smalltown. Findlay has built a reputation as a fun weekend getaway for Ohioans looking for good food, fun shops, and diverse cultural offerings. And housing options range from urban rentals to family-oriented neighborhoods. It’s also the headquarters of Marathon Petroleum, a Fortune 100 company. Findlay has the same low cost of living index as Columbus (92.8). Zillow reported an average home value of $231,719.

Recommended: The Different Types of Mortgage Loans

Helpful Resources for Future Ohio Residents

By Rebecca Safier

(Last Updated – November 5, 2024)

Did you know that Central Park, at 843 acres, is bigger than the principality of Monaco? Or that the Empire State Building has its own zip code?

If you move to the state of New York, you could entertain your visitors with these fun facts and more. But before you pack your bags for the Empire State, understand that New York’s cost of living is among the highest in the country. From rent to transportation to childcare, here’s a closer look at how much it costs to live in New York.

What’s the Average Cost of Living in New York?

If you’re in a New York State of mind, you may need an average monthly budget of $4,881 to get by. New York is the fourth most expensive state in the U.S. after Hawaii, California, and Massachusetts, according to 2022 data from MERIC (the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center). MERIC compiles data on the national average cost of living in the U.S., which forms a baseline of 100. New York state’s cost-of-living index is 123.5 — 23.5 points above the national average.

There’s no getting around it: The average monthly expenses for one person are high, and if you have a family, the costs climb. The Bureau of Economic Analysis puts the average cost of living in New York at $58,571 per year. New York City is one of the most expensive cities in the country, while more rural areas of New York State have a lower cost of living.

Here’s what you can expect to pay in New York State in major spending categories.

Housing Costs in New York

Average Housing Costs in New York: $1,008 to $1,864 per month

New York has over 8.6 million housing units, according to the latest U.S. Census data. The typical home value in New York is $478,973, Zillow reports, more than $100,000 above the U.S. average home value of $359,852. (If you are looking for a home loan in New York, remember to check into whether you qualify as a first-time homebuyer, as there are special programs for those who are buying a first home or who haven’t owned a primary residence in the last three years.)

If you’re a renter, here’s what to expect in monthly average costs:

•  Studio: $1,444

•  1 bedroom: $1,419

•  2 bedrooms: $1,502

•  3 bedrooms: $1,673

•  4 bedrooms: $1,845

•  5 or more bedrooms: $1,749

•  Median gross rent: $1,499

For those looking to buy a home, understand that there’s a lot of variation in house prices across the state of New York. You’d end up spending a lot more to live in the Big Apple than you would in a small town upstate — New York City is never going to wind up on anyone’s list of the best affordable places in the U.S. In fact, many buyers in New York City need a jumbo loan.

The good news: For qualified homebuyers, down payment assistance programs are available to help defray some of the cost associated with a home purchase.

Here are some typical home values in cities throughout New York State.

Utility Costs in New York

Average Utility Costs in New York: $410 per month

Along with your mortgage or rent payments, you’ll also have to factor the cost of utilities into your monthly budget. Here’s how the average utility bills break down in New York by major category.

Groceries & Food

Average Grocery & Food Costs in New York: $1,401 per month

When hunger strikes, how much can you expect to spend on food in New York? According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the average annual spend on non-restaurant food is $4,119 per person in New York, which comes out to about $343 per month.

As with housing, though, average food costs can vary depending on where you live in New York. Here’s how the Council for Community and Economic Research ranks the cost of groceries in various New York places in early 2024, from lowest to highest.

Transportation

If you’re living outside a major urban area, chances are you’ll need a car to get from place to place. Those who dwell in New York City, on the other hand, will likely rely on the subway for transportation. Either way, here’s how much you can expect transportation to cost you in New York, depending on your family size, according to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Living Wage Calculator .

Health Care

Healthcare can be a major cost in the United States. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the average annual per capita cost of healthcare in New York is $10,124. By comparison, the average annual per capita cost in the U.S. as a whole is $8,331.

Child Care

Child care can be a big expense and varies depending on the type of care you choose. Here’s what you can expect to pay for child care each month in New York, according to CostofChildCare.org .

Taxes

Highest Marginal Tax Rate in New York: 10.90%

New York has some of the highest tax rates in the country. State income taxes can go up to 10.90% for residents at the top of the graduated-rate income scale. The only states with higher tax rates are California (13.30%) and Hawaii (11.00%).

Recommended: The Mortgage Preapproval Process

Miscellaneous Costs

The Bureau of Economic Analysis estimates that you might spend $32,720 per year on personal expenses in New York. With no shortage of activities to choose from in the state, what might you spend some of that money on?

Here are a few miscellaneous costs you could have:

•  Broadway theater tickets: $20 – $145

•  Tour of top deck of Empire State Building: $79

•  Ice skating at Rockefeller Center: $21 – $114

•  Ticket to Yankee Stadium: Starting at $9.90

•  Maid of the Mist boat tour of Niagara Falls: $28.50

•  Season ski pass in New York State: $305 – $1,699

How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in New York?

Everyone has their own definition of what it means to live comfortably, and your costs will vary depending on your lifestyle, how many people are in your family, and other factors. That said, U.S. News & World Report puts New York at number 45 on its state affordability ranking, just after California; Hawaii; New Jersey; Washington, DC; and Massachusetts. MERIC also has New York near the bottom of its list for affordability with a cost of living index of 123.5.

However, where you choose to live in New York can make a big difference to your costs and lifestyle. New York City is one of the most expensive cities in the country, whereas a rural town upstate will have significantly lower costs.

Recommended: The Different Types of Home Mortgage Loan

What City Has the Lowest Cost of Living in New York?

If you’re looking for an affordable city in New York to call home, here are three options worth exploring, based on the Council for Community and Economic Research’s Cost of Living Index.

Herkimer County

Cost of living index: 94.8; median home sale price $170,000 per Redfin. (Herkimer County is northwest of Albany; towns there include Herkimer and Mohawk.)

Buffalo

Cost of living index: 96.0; median home sale price $201,000 per Redfin

Utica

Cost of living index: 96.8; median home sale price $175,000 per Redfin

Helpful Resources for Future New York Residents

By Lauren Ward

(Last Updated – November 4, 2024)

The cost of living in South Carolina is lower compared to many other parts of the country. It’s no wonder the state has one of the country’s highest influxes of new residents moving in. With coastal beaches in the east and mountain peaks in the west, South Carolina definitely has lots of reasons for its booming popularity. If you’re thinking about moving to South Carolina, find out what to expect for a variety of living costs.

What’s the Average Cost of Living in South Carolina?

Average Cost of Living in South Carolina: $46,220 per year

South Carolina is the 27th cheapest state to live in, according to Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC ) data gathered in 2024. It’s slightly less expensive than its neighbor North Carolina. On the MERIC index, 100 represents the average cost of living across the U.S.; South Carolina scores a 95.5, indicating it is below average.

The annual average cost of living in South Carolina is $46,220, according to Bureau of Economic Analysis data from 2022. That comes to just over $3,851 per month and can be broken down into the following spending categories:

Housing Costs in South Carolina

Average Housing Costs in South Carolina: $1,008 to $1,864 per month

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, South Carolina has over 2.4 million housing units as of 2023. And data from Zillow estimates the state’s typical home value to be just shy of $300,000 — so you likely won’t need a jumbo loan for buying a regular house in most parts of the state. But the amount you can expect to pay each month does vary depending on whether you purchase your property with a home loan or rent an apartment or house.

Here is what to expect in terms of housing cost of living in South Carolina per month, based on median prices for different living situations.

•  Studio rent: $1,017

•  1-bedroom rent: $1,008

•  2-bedroom rent: $1,018

•  3-bedroom rent: $1,134

•  4-bedroom rent: $1,376

•  5-bedroom rent: $1,864

•   Median gross rent: $1,084

Wondering how buying your first home in South Carolina stacks up against other areas? Here’s the typical home price in 10 major U.S. cities to see how the Palmetto State compares to the cost of living in other areas of the U.S. (Spoiler alert: South Carolina is the cheapest out of all these areas).

Utility Costs in South Carolina

Average Utility Costs in South Carolina: $383.87

When combined all together, utilities can account for a large percentage of your cost of living each month. Here’s how expenses break down for each category.

Sources: U.S. Energy Information Administration , Electric Sales, Revenue, and Average Price, 2022; Statista; DoxoInsights , U.S. Cable & Internet Market Size and Household Spending Report 2023; Rentcafe.com,What Is the Average Water Bill? June 2024.

Groceries & Food

Average Grocery & Food Costs in South Carolina: $1,401 per month

How much can you expect to spend on food each month in South Carolina? Without counting going out to eat, the average family of four spends $1,401 each month, according to data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis. Consequently, the average monthly expense for one person would be around $350 for food and groceries.

Grocery costs vary among individual communities in South Carolina. Here’s how four major population centers stack up against an index of 100. As noted above, the index is the state average; numbers over 100 are more expensive than other areas of the state, while lower scores are less expensive.

Transportation

Average Transportation Costs in South Carolina: $10,477 to $17,554 per year

Transportation is an important cost to factor into your budget, whether you live in one of South Carolina’s bigger cities like Charleston and Columbia, or in more rural areas like Calhoun and Greenville Counties. This 2024 data from MIT’s Living Wage Calculator gives you a sense of average transportation costs each year based on family size.

Health Care

Average Health Care Costs in South Carolina: $6,677 per year

South Carolina residents can expect to pay $6,677 per person each year for health care costs. That’s nearly 20% lower than the national average of $8,331, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. When you’re looking at the best afforable places in the U.S., South Carolina definitely stands out for health care costs.

Here’s how annual medical expenses vary by family size, according to MIT’s Living Wage Calculator.

Child Care

Average Child Care Costs in South Carolina: $741 to $1,138 more per month and per child

According to CostofChildCare.org , you can plan to pay anywhere between $741 and $1,138 per month for each child. Costs are highest for infants and tend to drop once your child is old enough to enter a toddler or preschool classroom. Home-based family care is the most expensive option after infant classroom care.

Taxes

Highest Marginal Tax Rate in South Carolina: 6.4%

Like slightly more than half the states, South Carolina has a graduated-rate income tax. The highest earners in the state pay 6.4% in income tax, according to the Tax Foundation . That tax rate is in addition to federal income tax.

For comparison, California has the highest state income tax bracket of 13.3%, while states such as Texas, Florida, and Nevada don’t have any income tax at all.

RecommendedP: Down Payment Assitance Programs

Miscellaneous Costs

Average Miscellaneous Costs in South Carolina: $24,932 per year

The Bureau of Economic Analysis places a nearly $25,000 price tag on “other personal expenditures” for South Carolinians. But that can vary a lot depending on your hobbies and interests. Hiking, for instance, is much cheaper than golfing.

Here are some example costs for popular attractions throughout the state of South Carolina (costs are as of September 2024):

•  Beach access: $0 when you go to one of the several free public beach parks in Hilton Head

•  A round of golf: Starts at $305 for a Sunday tee time at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort

•  Hiking around the Blue Ridge Mountains: Climb to the Blue Ridge Escarpment at Caesars Head State Park with trail access fees ranging from $1 to $3

•  White water rafting: A guided white water rafting tour starts at $59.95 per person.

How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in South Carolina?

The amount of money you need based on the cost of living in South Carolina depends on factors such as your lifestyle and family size. According to U.S. News & World Report’s Affordability Rankings , South Carolina ranks #21 for overall affordability and #23 for cost of living. That places it directly between Wisconsin and Michigan, so if you prefer milder weather, South Carolina is a solid bet for affordable living. Plus, the state is home to both the Atlantic Coast and the Blue Ridge Mountains, and you’ll be conveniently situated for plenty of East Coast travel opportunities. Remember that if you might qualify as a first-time homebuyer, you may be eligible for special mortgage programs in the state.

What City Has the Lowest Cost of Living in South Carolina?

The cost of living in South Carolina varies depending on what area you settle down in. Here are three of the more affordable areas that aren’t too rural, based on 2024 data from the Council for Community and Economic Research’s Cost of Living Index.

Aiken

Located in the western portion of the state, Aiken has a cost of living index score of just 83.7, making living expenses well below the national average. Although it’s considered a suburb of Augusta, there are lots of outdoors activities in Aiken, including Hitchcock Woods — one of the country’s largest urban forests.

Employment industries include energy, banking, transportation, and health care. Some of the largest employers in the area are Savannah Riversite, SRP Federal Credit Union, Bridgestone, UPS Customs Brokerage, and Medac.

According to Zillow, the average home value in Aiken is $258,917 and has increased almost 2% since the previous year.

Columbia

Centrally located in South Carolina, Columbia scores 92 on the cost of living index. The newly revitalized downtown area hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year and is home to the Soda City Market. As the state capital, the government is the city’s largest employer, followed by health and insurance companies, the University of South Carolina, and the U.S. Department of the Army.

This economic growth is reflected in growing property values. Columbia’s average home value is around $230,000, based on Zillow data. While that’s lower than Aiken, the annual increase is over 4%, indicating a strong potential for Columbia’s future growth in home values.

Recommended: Types of Mortgage Loans

Spartanburg

Spartanburg is another top affordable city, located in the state’s northwest corner with a cost of living index score of 92.1. While it’s just over an hour away from both Asheville and Charlotte, North Carolina, there’s also plenty to do at home in Spartanburg. The BMW Zentrum Museum in nearby Greer is perfect for auto enthusiasts, while nature lovers will appreciate the trails at Croft State Park.

Major area employers include BMW Manufacturing Co., Clemson University, Greenville County Schools, and Michelin. Home values average $221,000 and have increased in recent months.

Helpful Resources for Future South Carolina Residents

By Kevin Brouillard

(Last Updated – November 4, 2024)

South Dakota is known for expansive landscapes, iconic Mount Rushmore, and small towns with a strong sense of community. Before relocating to the Great Plains, it’s worth asking “what’s the cost of living in South Dakota?” Read on for an in-depth look at the average cost of living in South Dakota to help determine if it’s the right move for you.

What’s the Average Cost of Living in South Dakota?

Average Cost of Living in South Dakota: $48,997 per year

Before you move to the Mount Rushmore State, consider how the cost of living will impact your monthly budget and personal finances.

According to MERIC’s 2024 Cost of Living Index , South Dakota has the 13th lowest cost of living in the country, with a cost of living index of 91.2 (on this scale 100 is the average U.S. cost of living). The cost of living in South Dakota is lower than that of five out of six of its neighboring states. If you need your budget to stretch a bit further, you can consider a move to Iowa, which borders South Dakota and is the 8th most affordable state in the U.S. But don’t be surprised to see South Dakota on any list of the best affordable places to live in the U.S.

So, what is the cost of living in South Dakota on average? According to 2022 data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the average total personal consumption cost in South Dakota is $48,997 annually. Put another way, the average monthly expense for one person is $4,083 in South Dakota. Here’s a closer look at how that spending breaks down by category:

Housing Costs in South Dakota

Average Housing Costs in South Dakota: $507 to $1,557 per month

Housing costs in South Dakota are more affordable than the national average — good news if getting a home loan is on the horizon. South Dakota has just 417,220 housing units, according to the latest Census data, so the housing inventory isn’t the most extensive.

Buying your first home in South Dakota? Keep in mind that the typical home value in South Dakota is about $307,799, according to Zillow, so there are many properties you could choose that won’t require a jumbo loan. This is what you can expect to spend monthly if owning or renting:

•  Median monthly mortgage cost: $1,557

•  Median studio rent: $507

•  Median one-bedroom rent: $716

•  Median two-bedroom rent: $899

•  Median three-bedroom rent: $1,063

•  Median four-bedroom rent: $1,317

•   Median five-bedroom (or more) rent: $1,110

•  Median gross rent: $866

Where you live in South Dakota can impact how much you’ll pay for housing costs and the type of mortgage loan that will best suit your needs. Let’s take a look at the average home values for some of South Dakota’s largest cities, according to Zillow data from June 2024. (Remember there are down payment assistance programs to help homebuyers who have difficulty coming up with funds to put money down on a property.)

Utility Costs in South Dakota

Average Utility Costs in South Dakota: $300 per month

What do you need to budget for utilities each month if you plan to live in South Dakota? Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly utility costs for South Dakotans.

Sources: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Electric Sales, Revenue, and Average Price, 2021; Inspirecleanenergy.com; DoxoInsights, U.S. Cable & Internet Market Size and Household Spending Report 2022; and Rentcafe.com, What Is the Average Water Bill?

Groceries & Food

Average Grocery & Food Costs in South Dakota: $299 per month

How much you spend on food each month can depend on your dietary preferences, as well as where you live. According to data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the average cost of food per person is $3,592 per year. This comes out to about $299 per person, per month.

The Council for Community and Economic Research ranked the grocery costs in South Dakota’s main population centers from the first quarter of 2023 through the first quarter of 2024. Below are the grocery costs per location, ranked from lowest to highest.

Transportation

Average Transportation Costs in South Dakota: $10,920 for one adult

Between commuting to work, running errands, and trips to South Dakota’s beautiful national parks, transportation costs are something you’ll need to budget for.

How much you’ll spend on transportation will depend on where you live, your habits, and what your household looks like. To get a clearer picture of what you might spend on transportation costs in South Dakota, here are some estimates from MIT’s Living Wage Calculator , which uses data from the first quarter of 2024.

Recommended: 7 Ways to Save Money on Commuting to Work

Health Care

Average Health Care Costs in South Dakota: $10,881 per person, per year

According to the BEA, South Dakotans spend an average of $10,881 per year on health care. What you actually spend will depend on your personal care needs and health coverage.

Average health care costs in South Dakota are on par with North Dakota, but higher than other neighboring states, including Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, and Wyoming.

Child Care

Average Child Care Costs in South Dakota: $810to $1,042 or more per child, per month

For families with kids, child care can be a significant expense. South Dakota residents who need support with child care costs can apply for state child care assistance programs .

For a better idea of how much you’ll pay for child care costs, use these average costs from CostofChildCare.org .

Taxes

Highest Marginal Tax Rate in South Dakota: None

South Dakota residents do not pay any state income taxes, reports the Tax Foundation .

Miscellaneous Costs

Now that your essential expenses are covered, let’s have a look at what you can expect to budget for discretionary spending. According to the BEA, average personal expenditures amount to $26,090 per person, per year.

Here are some examples of what you might spend money on in South Dakota for fun and leisure.

•  Visit Mount Rushmore: $0-10 per vehicle, depending on age and military service

•  Enjoy family-friendly fun at the Reptile Gardens in Rapid City: $14-25 per person, depending on age and seasonality

•  Marvel at the unique works at Porter Sculpture Park: $0-10 per person, depending on age

How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in South Dakota?

Whether you can enjoy a comfortable style of living in South Dakota will vary depending on your family’s needs and your chosen lifestyle, as well as where you live.

If you plan on living in South Dakota, you might be relieved to know it is more affordable than the average cost of livig in the U.S. In fact, South Dakota ranks 5th in the U.S. News & World Reports Affordability Rankings, which assesses the average cost of living against the average household wealth in each state.

As a reminder, MERIC ranked South Dakota 13th on its list of state’s average cost of living. Between both lists, South Dakota emerges as one of the more affordable places to live in the country.

What Major City Has the Lowest Cost of Living in South Dakota?

Although South Dakota is one of the most affordable states to live in, some cities offer a lower cost of living than others.

These are three of the least expensive cities in South Dakota according to the Council for Community and Economic Research’s Cost of Living Index for quarter 1 of 2023 through quarter 1 of 2024.

Sioux Falls

Among the most affordable cities in South Dakota is Sioux Falls, which has a cost-of-living index score of 90.6. Sioux Falls has a population of 202,078, making it the most populous city in South Dakota. Situated on the Big Sioux River, the city has plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. In terms of housing costs, Sioux Falls scored 86.9 on the housing cost index, so it’s a more competitive market for first-time home buyers. (Going through the mortgage preapproval process will help you figure out what your home buying budget should be.)

Pierre

With a cost-of-living index of 93.7, Pierre is another of South Dakota’s most affordable cities. Though it’s South Dakota’s capital city, Pierre has a population of just 14,091, making it the second-least populous capital in the U.S. Nestled on the Missouri River, Pierre offers a small town atmosphere and access to outdoor activities like fishing, camping, and boating.

Rapid City

Rapid City tied Pierre for second place with a matching cost-of-living index of 93.7. According to council data, housing costs measured out to 82.5 on the cost-of-living index, meaning that homeownership and renting here is more budget-friendly. Rapid City is home to a population of 79,404, making it South Dakota’s second largest city.

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Helpful Resources for Future South Dakota Residents

By Jamie Cattanach

(Last Updated – November 4, 2024)

Those who know North Dakota well know that it’s a hidden gem. No other state can boast an official nickname like the Peace Garden State — a sweetness compounded by the fact that North Dakota is the nation’s leading producer of honey. North Dakota stands apart when it comes to cost of living, too. This northern Great Plains state offers affordability coupled with a stunning rural landscape and a few metropolitan options, like Fargo and Bismarck. Below, a breakdown of specific costs related to living in North Dakota for your consideration.

What’s the Average Cost of Living in North Dakota?

Average Cost of Living in North Dakota: $52,631 per year

According to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC) , which publishes a quarterly cost-of-living index by state, the overall cost of living in North Dakota is just 91.3% of the U.S. average as of the second quarter of 2024.

While most of the Midwestern and Great Plains states enjoy a lower-than-average cost of living, North Dakota is less expensive than many of its neighbors, including Montana (where the cost of living is 94.7% of the U.S. average) and Minnesota (95.3%). South Dakota is just a smidge more affordable at 91.2% of the U.S. average.

The trend can also be seen in individual expense categories as outlined below. The government’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) reports that the average cost of living in North Dakota is $52,631. Compared to the U.S. averages, the BEA analysis shows that North Dakotans spend substantially less on housing, food, and energy costs — though the state’s average yearly health care cost is about $2,000 higher than the national figure.

Housing Costs in North Dakota

Average Housing Costs in North Dakota: $696 to $1,653 per month

The typical home value in North Dakota is about $265,368. Translation: Those looking to become first-time homeowners might do well to turn their attention to North Dakota. It’s a lot easier to save a down payment for a home that’s far less than the national average home value of around $360,000.

The state is equipped with 380,841 housing units, per the latest Census data, 63.2% of which are owner-occupied. That means about 140,149 rental units are available for those who aren’t yet ready to take out a .

Better yet, those rentals offer substantially more affordable rates than the U.S. average, where the median gross rent is $1,300. Here’s the breakdown based on home size:

•  Median monthly mortgage cost: $1,653

•  Studio rent: $696

•  1-bedroom rent: $725

•  2-bedroom rent: $870

•  3-bedroom rent: $1,138

•  4-bedroom rent: $1,182

•  5-bedroom rent: $1,272

•  Median gross rent: $863

While, of course, your specific housing costs will vary depending on where in the state you live, even in Bismarck, the state’s capital, average home prices substantially undercut the national median. Here are the costs you can expect in eight major North Dakota cities, whether you’re buying your first home or looking for a retirement spot.

Utility Costs in North Dakota

Average Utility Costs in North Dakota: $299 per month

Once you’ve got the housing bill paid, it’s time to make sure the lights are on and the water is flowing. Here’s a breakdown of the average monthly utilities bill in North Dakota — though of course your mileage will vary depending on the size of your home, the number of people in your household, and your usage.

Groceries & Food

Average Grocery & Food Costs in North Dakota: $306 per person, per month

North Dakotans spend an average of $3,676 each year on food, which breaks down to about $306 per month, per person. That means a family of four could expect to spend about $1,225 per month on groceries (with some wiggle room depending on the ages and appetites of your loved ones).

Of course, individual prices do vary a bit by city. Below, find the grocery item index costs for four major North Dakota population centers. (Note: Even Fargo, the state’s most metropolitan city with a population of over 133,000, enjoys a lower-than-national-average food cost.)

Transportation

Average Transportation Costs in North Dakota: $10,769 to $18,044 per year

While North Dakota’s rolling plains and stunning hills are part of what make it such a dreamy place to live, the state’s rural sensibilities can also mean a lot of driving — which means higher transportation costs.

It’s hard to get around under that big, wide-open sky without a vehicle of your own, and costs like gas, insurance, and car payments can quickly add up. Obviously, families with children can expect to spend more than single adults or child-free couples. (Fortunately, all those drives are bound to be scenic.)

Health Care

Average Health Care Costs in North Dakota: $10,494 per person, per year

North Dakotans can expect to spend about $10,494 per person, per year on healthcare related costs. That’s admittedly higher than the U.S. average of $8,331 — perhaps because a less populous state tends to have fewer available care providers, driving up demand and prices.

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Child Care

Average Child Care Costs in North Dakota: $677 to $1,140 or more per child, per month

Ask any parent and they’ll be quick to tell you: Child care isn’t cheap. Parents in North Dakota might expect to spend $819 per month on an in-home nanny, or $1,140 for infant child care in a classroom setting..

That said, these costs are still more affordable than in neighboring states. In Minnesota, for example, the infant classroom cost skyrockets to $1,658 per month, and home-based family child care is $1,239 per child on average. In Montana, too, prices are higher for every type of care except an infant classroom.

Taxes

Highest Marginal Tax Rate in North Dakota: 2.50%

One nice break North Dakotans can expect in April: The state boasts one of the lowest top marginal individual income tax rates in the country, topping out at just 2.50%. (Compare that, for example, to Kansas’s middle-of-the-road 5.70%, or California’s sky-high 13.30%.)

That said, South Dakota does have a one-up on its northerly neighbor in this regard: There’s no state income tax to speak of in Mount Rushmore’s homeland.

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Miscellaneous Costs

According to the BEA, after taking care of basic bills, the average North Dakotan spends about ​​$29,978 per year on other personal costs. Those might include:

•  An annual membership to the International Peace Garden (from which North Dakota gets its official state nickname): $50

•  A standard pass to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where the whole family can see the buffalo roam: $30 per vehicle, valid for seven consecutive days

•  Admission to the Fargo Air Museum for a family of four (one three-year-old child and one seven-year-old): $40

How Much Money Do You Need to Live Comfortably in North Dakota?

“Comfortable” is a spectrum, and different people have vastly differing ideas about what constitutes a comfortable life. That said, North Dakota ranks eighth in the nation in terms of affordability according to U.S. News & World Report, and 6th for cost of living by state specifically. So it’s certainly one of the best affordable places in the U.S. If you’re going to live in the United States, there aren’t too many other states in which it’s possible to do so more cheaply.

The BEA estimates North Dakotans’ annual total personal expenditures at around $52,631. That means if you earn the national median household income ($75,149), you should be in a fairly good position to live a comfortable life while still affording to save for future goals.

What City Has the Lowest Cost of Living in North Dakota?

While North Dakota as a whole enjoys a lower cost of living than the U.S. average, some cities in the state are even more affordable than others. Of the metropolitan areas studied, our data shows that Minot enjoys the lowest cost of living, with an index of just 90.3% of the U.S. average.

A city of 48,377, Minot is located just northwest of the very center of the state, and is also home to an Air Force Base. As such, it’s also home to the Dakota Territory Air Museum as well as the Roosevelt Zoo, which is home to 90 species and more than 200 individual animals., Affordable picks in North Dakota are below:

Helpful Resources for Future North Dakota Residents