7 Budget-Friendly Towns in South Dakota for Retirees
Retirement is only the beginning as a new adventure begins. Choosing where to start that fantastic journey is not to be taken lightly. Do you want sun and fun, winter bliss, mountains or plains, outdoor sport, or even a culturally significant wonderland for the mind and heart? It just so happens there is one place you can find all of this and so much more.
South Dakota awaits and is ready to embrace you. An ocean of grass, the Black Hills, cowboy history, plenty of sights and places to absorb as both resident and visitor and rich, dynamic history are around every corner of this lovely state. The cost of living is very reasonable, rural life is celebrated, and friendly folks cannot wait to meet you with warmth and hospitality.
There is never a lack of ways to fill those retirement hours. Golfing, fishing, hiking, camping, learning, embracing a simpler and slower way of life, and living your best life as you blaze down your final path. Come see what South Dakota can offer you during those retirement years. You won’t be disappointed.
Aberdeen
The Midwest is famous for its conservative values, its modest charm, and its hospitable atmosphere, and Aberdeen embodies all of these beautifully. You can expect a slower, friendly environment when walking the streets of this lovely small town in Brown County, and it is even considered the most affordable and one of the least stressed counties in South Dakota by local vote, with an average home price of $268,500.
Those who enjoy the outdoors will fall in love with all the fishing and hunting opportunities, as well as parks and recreation. Golfers and anyone who loves to swim can find a renewed sense of joy at Aberdeen Aquatic Center or Lee Park Golf Course. Those on a fixed budget will appreciate the mild, warmer months that will not run up your utility bills. If you are worried about medical needs, Avera St. Lukes will take good care of you.
Winner
In southcentral South Dakota, Winner is often overlooked but should not be underestimated. Its roots aren’t as much in historical significance and are firmly seated in agriculture and hunting. Retirees who enjoy bagging pheasant will wear an ear-to-ear smile when they learn that their new hometown has an annual pheasant season in October.
Invite the grandkids and watch them lose their minds when you take them to Winner Swimming Pool or Winner City Park. Perhaps teach them the peace and skill of fishing at the Winner Youth Bass Fishing Pond. Then, just for giggles, have dinner at the Winner Chicken Dinner for some authentic homestyle cooking. Its affordability speaks for itself, with an average home price of $199,000.
Yankton
Before the states were separated by borders, Yankton was the capital of the territory that is now South Dakota, North Dakota, Wyoming, and Montana. It is considered one of South Dakota’s prettiest towns, set on the Missouri River, with all the charm and beauty you might expect from a historically significant town. Additionally, the average home price is $299,000, so this charm and beauty is easily within reach! Yankton also offers lots of fun activities for retirees, as well as visiting family.
Golf, fishing, water recreation, and parks abound, and bocce is a big hit. For the kids and grandkids, archery classes, rec centers, and plenty of places to swim and play are scattered around the town, many available for use during most of the year. Just in case, the town also has top-notch medical care just around the corner at Avera Sacred Heart.
Spearfish
Life has been hectic; why not settle down in a place that offers peace, tranquility, and affordability? Welcome to Spearfish, a small town with everything you need to slow down, calm the soul, and enchant the spirit. Though the average home price is slightly more expensive at $681,500, this town more than makes up for it in activities for retirees. Breathe in the clean mountain air, listen to the babbling of Spearfish Creek and False Bottom Creek that flow through the town, and enjoy the relaxed environment you might not have wished for but will never get enough of.
This doesn’t mean the town is boring or without its list of interesting activities. Far from it. As a matter of fact, many of the offerings are geared toward seniors, including discounts, and who doesn’t love a lower price when on a fixed budget? Connect with history at the High Plaines Western Heritage Center, golf at Elkhorn Ridge, and when the family pays a visit, camping, fishing, and parks will enchant them.
Vermillion
Not all college towns are loud, with coeds causing no end of mischief. Vermillion is proof that none of these shenanigans are a problem, instead showcasing peace, a relaxed atmosphere, and rural charm with a small-town appeal. The community is always happy to greet newcomers while celebrating its locals, extending a hand in friendship to all in the great Sioux spirit.
For retirees looking for more culture in their twilight years, Vermillion is both proud and eager to share its many festivals, including the South Dakota Shakespeare Festival every June. Take in a theatrical production at Vermillion Community Theater. Interact with residents during one of the downtown sidewalk events. Don’t forget to plan something for visiting family. A good suggestion is the Vermillion Recreation Center. In terms of affordability, the average home price is $319,900, which means seniors can afford a home without breaking the bank.
Watertown
It might sound funny, but some retirees don’t want to slow down. After a lifetime of pure momentum, the spirit needs the rush of activities to keep the fire of life stoked. Watertown is your answer, regardless of the time of year. Sacrificing dreams and hobbies to provide, support, and survive is a part of being a working adult. Now is the time to play catch-up. In this affordable town, with an average home price of $369,000, this is possible.
Start with some ice fishing in the frigid winter months. Yes, it might seem like a slow activity, but nothing matches the thrill of pulling a lunker out of a frozen lake. Next, go on an art walk and learn about the local culture and creative energy of the town. When the grandkids visit, splash around with them at Break, the Watertown Escape Room, or take a stroll through Bramble Park Zoo.
Mitchell
Mitchell is a little faster-paced than many other towns in South Dakota, and there is a good reason for it. First, tourism is pretty constant due to the Famous Corn Palace, drawing a half-million guests annually. As a retiree who still wants a town with lively energy and a constant influx of new guests, this alone makes Mitchell your heaven on earth. That is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. The average home price is $384,000, meaning these perks are within reach for seniors.
Mitchell boasts a reasonable home value, even for a tourist destination. Local medical care is second to none and caters well to seniors. Nature walks and peaceful picnics at Lake Mitchell are a welcome and time-honored way to bask in the sunshine on a warm spring day. Take the youngins fishing or on a hike. Find your inner child again while embracing your senior nirvana.
History, culture, recreation, outdoor sport, and endless possibilities. This is what South Dakota offers every retiree who chooses to make this sprawling, breathtaking state home. Take a breath as you leisurely run your victory lap after a life of conviction and service. With a lower cost of living, a reasonable median home value, plenty of medical care within reach, and room to spread your wings, there really is nothing quite like it.
