Maryland
High tax burden · COL index 116
Wins 6 categories
South Dakota
Low tax burden · COL index 95
Wins 10 categories
South Dakota has no state income tax. Maryland's top rate is 5.75%. Cost of living in Maryland (index 116) runs 22% higher than South Dakota (index 95). The median home in Maryland costs $420K vs $310K in South Dakota. Politically, South Dakota voted Republican in 2024 (R+27.0) while Maryland went Democratic (D+24.0).
Taxes
Housing & Cost of Living
Crime & Safety
Healthcare
Education
Childcare
Utilities & Daily Costs
Social Policy
Category wins
6
Maryland
10
South Dakota
Run the full slider tool to score these states against your specific income, home value, retirement, and lifestyle priorities.
Score For My Profile →People Also Ask
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!
Is Maryland a good state to live in?
Is moving to South Dakota a good idea?
How harsh are winters in South Dakota?