The Best Small Towns To Retire In South Dakota
As part of the Great Plains, completely landlocked and with a history of bitterly cold winters, many people are often shocked when a retiring friend or family member elects to move to South Dakota. It doesn’t have the bustling retiree community of states such as Florida or Arizona, its greatest tourism draw is Mount Rushmore, and quick research of towns shows that major cities do not exist.
All of these are true, but all of these add to the charm that makes this such a wonderful place to settle down. Maybe South Dakota isn’t near a beach, but it is populated by lots of lovely lakes ready for fishing year-round. It indeed has only a couple that are larger than a hundred thousand people, but that means a retiree can move around with the perils of larger cities and gain a sense of community.
The one big push that makes South Dakota such a terrific idea for those planning to leave the workforce and enjoy their twilight years is the lower cost of living. When a pension, SSI, and other smaller paying income streams bleed quickly in more expensive states, your dollar will stretch much farther in the home of the Black Hills. On a fixed income, that alone is worth adding to your list of places to retire.
Yankton
From very affordable housing to easy to access healthcare, Yankton caters to the needs of retirees at every turn. Although, retirement is about more than saving and surviving. It's about getting the most out of your final years, and Yankton is the place for anyone who cannot wait to get involved and have a blast.
Golfing, bowling, fishing, and hiking are popular. Taking day trips to fish and boat on the Missouri River, Lewis and Clark Lake, and Lake Yankton are havens for boating enthusiasts. Trips downtown will give you a small-town feel without missing out on big-city boutique shopping. And if you love discounts, many shops, stores, and restaurants offer senior discounts.
Winner
It might be a silly name for a town, but for those who have been lucky enough to go for a visit, it is evident immediately that the name fits. It is not uncommon for visitors to have an unexpected happy reaction the instance they enter this lovely town of fewer than 2,000 people. And for retirees looking for a quiet spot to while away their later years, Winner is a great choice.
Reach back to your younger days with your sweety and take in a movie at the Winner Drive-in, one of the last driving movie theaters in the country. Maybe catch a game at the Leahy Bowl, a well-preserved ballpark and the pride of the town. And for sportsmen that don’t believe age decides when you stop dropping your line in the water or shelving your rifle, the fishing, and hunting in Winner is fantastic.
Hot Springs
Retiring in a place with other folks of your generation offers an easer transition into a new community. This comes double for retirees that are also veterens. In Hot Springs, the vibrant veteren community welcomes those who have spent time defending our country and treats them will honor and distinction, and all retirees with dignity and respect.
Hot Springs is not just a name, its an attitude. The small-twon vibe, the relaxed atmosphere, and the general sense of peace and tranquility perfectly mirror the sensations you will feel every time you drop into one of the hot springs at Evans Plunge Mineral Springs. Visit Cascade falls and take in nature and lovely views. And for those who wish to stay active, do some hiking and fishing at Bear Butte State Park.
Vermillion
Golfers rejoice. Vermillion welcomes golf enthusiasts of all ages to The Bluffs, an upscale 18-hole championship course. Although, how much golf can you play? Worry not, because Vermillion offers so much more than just an opportunity to hit the links. It has a thriving art community with cultural and historical wonders that will leave you speechless. Perhaps your artistic side is ready to come out. Vermillion is ready to welcome it.
Before setting down roots, it is important to note that Vermillion can be bitterly cold in the winter and very windy, largely due to its proximity to the Missouri River. However, when those days are gone for the year, the temps climb as high as 88 degrees, making biking and hiking down the Vermillion River trail a joy. It is said the trip is always best when you can take in a glorious sunrise or sunset behind the picturesque landscape.
Aberdeen
Retirement is largely about your needs and desires, but don’t forget visits from the family. Grandchildren need a fun experience to lock their memories in place forever. Aberdeen can do this and more, along with lots of opportunities only afforded to retirees who want to spend time with others in the age bracket.
For the young ones, plays, concerts and the biggest attraction that will have them agape in wonder is Storybook Land, an iconic staple of Aberdeen located in Wylie Park, or splash around at the Aberdeen Aquatic Center. For the older crowd, vendor fairs, city events, and guided hunting trips will keep you active and eager to enjoy the Aberdeen lifestyle all year long.
Mitchell
Make some family bonds without spending a fortune when you take your kids and grandkids to many of the Mitchell attractions. One that is not to be underestimated is the famous Corn Palace, taking in more than 500,000 visitors a year. Or explore two of the longest caves in the world but be sure to take the guided tour. The last thing a retiree wants is to get lost in a huge cave.
Embracing and understanding other cultures is worth any time spent in the pursuit. Feel free to meet with and enjoy many of the events centered around the 9 tribes still calling South Dakota home, taking in the rich traditions and colorful spectacle of Powwows, Galleries, and Museums. They can teach much about community, honor, and hospitality. Perhaps you can learn something interesting that you can pass on to your kids and grandkids.
Pierre
The capital of South Dakota, it is the second-smallest capital behind Montpelier, Vermont, topping out at about 14,000 residents. For retirees, this gorgeous little town has lots to offer, and with its small population, you can be sure you won’t get lost in the shuffle. For instance, walk the trail of governors and view the bronze statues of past governors that once held positions in the state, or say a little prayer and give tribute to fallen first responders at the Flaming Fountain.
Pierre boasts 8 retirement communities, all with their own event calendars, all with personalities that make them special. What are you looking for? What will make your retirement the best it can be? Perhaps one of these villages has what you seek. The town is yours to explore, the attractions are perfect for all ages, and retirees thrive with plenty of activities just for them and their unique desires, no matter what time of year.
Conclusion
While South Dakota might not be the first place on your retirement list, it is certainly a good idea to check out the beauty, culture, and vibrant lifestyle of the state and its many towns before dismissing it altogether. Perhaps a small town living on the Great Plains where the West comes to life is just what you need when riding out your final chapters.
