Alaska
Low tax burden · COL index 126
Wins 2 categories
South Dakota
Low tax burden · COL index 95
Wins 10 categories
Neither Alaska nor South Dakota levies a state income tax. Cost of living in Alaska (index 126) runs 33% higher than South Dakota (index 95).
Taxes
Housing & Cost of Living
Crime & Safety
Healthcare
Education
Childcare
Utilities & Daily Costs
Social Policy
Category wins
2
Alaska
10
South Dakota
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Score For My Profile →People Also Ask
Do you get $1000 for living in Alaska?
Alaska has one of the longest-running incentive programs in the country: the Permanent Dividend Fund. Started in 1976, it pays every resident an annual stipend as long as they lived in Alaska during the previous calendar year. The amount depends on the state's annual revenue, but averages around $1,600.
What is the leading cause of death in South Dakota?
Local physicians or coroners submit death certificates to the South Dakota Department of Health. Over the past 17 years, 2008-2024, the two most common causes of death have been heart disease and cancer.
What I wish I knew before moving to Alaska?
Not only should you be prepared for the cold, but you should also be ready for rapidly changing weather, too. Many people think Alaska is cold year-round. And while that's not true, there are long stretches of cold, wintry days. It's essential to be prepared before moving there with a warm jacket and waterproof boots.
Is South Dakota the best state to live in?
With beautiful landscapes, plenty of opportunity, and a top-notch quality of life, we've long thought South Dakota was one of the best states in America. In fact, U.S. News has ranked South Dakota as the 8th best state in America for 2025!