South Dakota's 9 Best Retirement Towns Ranked
For retirees seeking a peaceful and affordable place to settle down, the state of South Dakota is proving to be an excellent choice for retirees. With no state income tax and reasonable sales taxes on food and fuel in most locations, the Mount Rushmore State offers financial advantages that can help stretch retirement savings further. While Sioux Falls and Rapid City attract many due to their size, the state has plenty of charming small towns that provide a perfect mix of modern amenities, excellent healthcare, and active lifestyles. Whether you’re drawn to historic main streets, scenic landscapes, or outdoor recreation, South Dakota has plenty to offer. From the Black Hills to the Missouri River, these nine best retirement towns ranked will stand out as some of the best places to spend one's golden years.
Aberdeen
Aberdeen sits in the northern part of the state as the county seat of Brown County, about thirty miles south of the state line with North Dakota. This small town of 28,110 residents is home to Northern State University, a public four-year college with an excellent music and arts program widely supported by the community. (In addition, senior adults can take classes at the university for a reduced tuition rate). History buffs will want to explore the Dacotah Prairie Museum in a 19th-century historic bank building or the vibrant downtown area with small shops, boutiques, and cafes. When you visit, try the Three22Kitchen + Cocktails. This relatively new restaurant (opening in 2021) is quickly gaining a reputation as the place to dine in Aberdeen.
Aberdeen is listed as one of the safest cities in the state, with a well-funded police department and community services. The median price for a home is typically in the low- to mid-$200,000s, and living costs are lower than the national average. Avera St. Luke Hospital and Sanford Aberdeen Medical Center anchor the healthcare services. With several residential living centers, retirement homes, and skilled nursing facilities available, older adults have plenty of options should the need arise. (Two of the best are Parkside and Avera Mother Joseph Manor). Aberdeen ranks high due to its affordability, community support, and safe, quiet neighborhoods.
Madison
Madison sits in Lake County in the southeastern portion of the state and is an excellent choice for retirees looking for a peaceful, close-knit community. The community is between Lake Herman and Lake Madison, providing outdoor recreation opportunities like fishing, boating, and hiking. The Prairie Village, a historical attraction just outside town, gives visitors a glimpse into South Dakota’s pioneer past with restored buildings and a working railroad. Prime Time Tavern is the best steakhouse in the city, serving slow-roasted prime rib that will melt in your mouth. The town is also home to Dakota State University, which provides residents with cultural events, educational programs, and entertainment options.
Madison has an active senior community, a low crime rate, and affordable housing and living costs. The median price for a home is in the $290,000s, according to Redfin, with a cost-of-living ratio much lower than the national average. Madison Regional Health System is a 22-bed, non-profit hospital that offers various healthcare services. Bethel Lutheran Home is a nursing home facility with excellent staffing-to-patient ratios. With excellent healthcare, outdoor activity, and a welcoming small-town ambiance, Madison is a wonderful place to enjoy retirement.
Brookings
Brookings is a vibrant college town, home to South Dakota State University, that reflects a small-town atmosphere. Retirees will enjoy the stunning McCrory Gardens, a 70-acre botanical garden and arboretum. The lively downtown area features unique shops, cozy cafes, and cultural events, providing plenty of opportunities to stay socially active and connected with the community. When the grandkids come to visit, visit the Children's Museum of South Dakota, where they can spend hours enjoying the interactive exhibits.
The median home price in Brookings, according to Redfin, is about $250,000. The city also boasts lower food and fuel expenses, too. The community enjoys safe streets, having been listed as one of the "safest college towns in the United States." Brookings Health Systems runs the local 49-bed hospital, 79-bed nursing facility, and several family practice clinics. With excellent access to educational activities, a thriving local arts scene, affordability, and a low crime rate, Brookings ranks high on our list of the best places to retire.
Huron
Huron is a delightful place to retire, offering a welcoming community and a relaxed pace of life. The community hosts the South Dakota State Fair every year, bringing residents and visitors together for a week-long celebration. Nature lovers can enjoy the scenic beauty of Ravine Lake Park, perfect for fishing, picnicking, or a peaceful walk. For hunters, the surrounding prairie fields offer some of the best pheasant hunting in the state.
The median home price is $240,000, and retirees' monthly expenses are about 20% less than the national average. The Huron Regional Medical Center provides comprehensive healthcare, including specialized care for seniors. Several community living options, including Peaceful Pines Senior Living and The Wellshire Huron, assisted living centers with excellent services, are available. With affordable living, friendly neighbors, and a rich blend of outdoor activities, Huron provides an inviting and fulfilling environment for retirees looking to enjoy their golden years.
Hill City
Hill City is a picturesque gem in the Black Hills, making it an ideal place to retire for those seeking natural beauty and a tight-knit community. Retirees can explore iconic sites like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial, both just a short drive away. For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby Custer State Park and Mickelson Trail offer endless hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities, making it easy to stay active. Along its historic Main Street are art galleries, local boutiques, and cozy restaurants catering to locals and tourists alike.
Healthcare needs are well-supported, with nearby facilities like Monument Health in Custer offering quality medical care and specialized services. For retirees interested in community living options, the community has several choices, including Peaceful Pines and Holiday Hills Estates. Hill City enjoys a low crime rate compared to other cities in the state. While median housing costs are around $488,000, according to Redfin, living costs average about 10% to 15% below the national average.
Spearfish
Spearfish perfectly balances natural beauty, small-town charm, and modern amenities. The town sits in the northern Black Hills and is home to the breathtaking Spearfish Canyon. Retirees can enjoy scenic drives, hiking trails, waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls, not to mention great rainbow trout fishing from Iron Creek Lake. The town’s vibrant arts and culture scene, with local galleries, live theater, and community events, always ensures something to do.
The median home price according to Redfin is about $460,000, but the living costs are slightly less than the national average. Healthcare facilities include Monument Health, which provides comprehensive services, including specialized care for seniors. For those seeking community living, The Village at Skyline Pines offers a comfortable and supportive retirement environment with social activities and personalized care. For retirees who can afford it, Spearfish provides an inviting, enriching place to enjoy retirement amidst the stunning backdrop of the Black Hills.
Watertown
Watertown is home to the renowned Redlin Art Center, where retirees can admire the works of Terry Redlin, one of the nation's most notable landscape artists. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Kampeska and Pelican Lake, which are perfect for fishing, boating, or simply relaxing by the water. The Bramble Park Zoo and extensive walking trails offer peaceful spaces to explore nature. At the same time, the lively downtown area hosts quaint shops, restaurants, and community events that foster strong local connections.
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System provides comprehensive medical services, including specialized care for seniors. Those seeking a vibrant retirement community will find options like Edgewood Senior Living, which offers a supportive environment, engaging activities, and comfortable amenities. Median housing costs according to Redfin are about $200,000, and with one of the lowest crime rates in the state, Watertown is an attractive retirement destination for senior adults.
Milbank
This small community is in the eastern part of the state, along the south fork of the Whetstone River. There are opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and birdwatching. The town is home to unique local attractions like the Grant County Historical Museum, where residents can explore the area’s rich history, and community events like Farley Fest bring people together for music, food, and fun. The welcoming vibe and slower pace of life make it easy to build meaningful connections and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle.
Housing costs are among the lowest in the state, and living expenses are 15% less than the national average. The city has an active police presence, ensuring safe neighborhoods. Milbank Area Health Care Campus provides reliable medical care and specialized services for seniors. For those seeking extra support, nearby retirement communities like Peaceful Pines and The Wellshire offer comfortable living options with social activities and personalized care.
Yankton
Yankton sits in southern South Dakota on the state's border with Nebraska. The Missouri River flows through the town, playing a vital role in developing this river city as an early trading post and steamboat stop. Retirees will enjoy the Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, with its popular cycle and walking paths, shaded campgrounds, and easy lake access. The eclectic downtown offers a variety of small shops, antique stores, and restaurants, perfect for an afternoon of treasure hunting. If you visit, you will want to dine at Charlie's Pizza for one of their famous loaded pies (trust us, this place is that good).
The median home in Yankton costs around $171,000, according to Redfin, and living costs are significantly less than the national average (up to 20% less in recent years). Avera Sacred Heart Hospital provides quality healthcare services. With its small-town charm, affordability, and quality healthcare, Yankton is the perfect choice for those seeking a retirement community to call home.
One of the most important decisions a retiree can make is where to spend their retirement years, and while it can be daunting, the choice doesn't have to be filled with struggle and stress. These nine best retirement towns ranked in South Dakota offer plenty of daily activities to keep seniors engaged and active, safe streets, and a low affordability factor. Whether it is walking through a forest canyon, angling for a rainbow trout, or just touring a historic downtown district, don't underestimate the quality of life you can enjoy in South Dakota.
