Maine
High tax burden · COL index 107
Wins 7 categories
South Dakota
Low tax burden · COL index 95
Wins 9 categories
South Dakota has no state income tax. Maine's top rate is 7.15%. Cost of living in Maine (index 107) runs 13% higher than South Dakota (index 95). Politically, South Dakota voted Republican in 2024 (R+27.0) while Maine went Democratic (D+6.0).
Taxes
Housing & Cost of Living
Crime & Safety
Healthcare
Education
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Utilities & Daily Costs
Social Policy
Category wins
7
Maine
9
South Dakota
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Is South Dakota the best state to live in?
South Dakota ranked in the 10 best states in America for 2025 by U.S. News. 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!