New Jersey
High tax burden · COL index 121
Wins 6 categories
South Dakota
Low tax burden · COL index 95
Wins 9 categories
South Dakota has no state income tax. New Jersey's top rate is 10.75%. Cost of living in New Jersey (index 121) runs 27% higher than South Dakota (index 95). Property taxes are meaningfully different: New Jersey averages 2.13% annually vs South Dakota's 1.08%. The median home in New Jersey costs $500K vs $310K in South Dakota.
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Housing & Cost of Living
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Healthcare
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Category wins
6
New Jersey
9
South Dakota
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Is moving to South Dakota a good idea?
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 NJ the best state to live in?
Is $200,000 a good salary in NJ?