South Dakota
Low tax burden · COL index 95
Wins 8 categories
Vermont
High tax burden · COL index 111
Wins 5 categories
South Dakota has no state income tax. Vermont's top rate is 8.75%. Cost of living in Vermont (index 111) runs 17% higher than South Dakota (index 95). Property taxes are meaningfully different: Vermont averages 1.73% annually vs South Dakota's 1.08%. Politically, South Dakota voted Republican in 2024 (R+27.0) while Vermont went Democratic (D+31.0).
Taxes
Housing & Cost of Living
Crime & Safety
Healthcare
Education
Childcare
Utilities & Daily Costs
Social Policy
Category wins
8
South Dakota
5
Vermont
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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!
Are people moving out of Vermont?
More people are leaving Vermont. Here's where they're going. More people left Vermont than moved in between the summers of 2024 and 2025, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau. About 700 residents left the Green Mountain for other states on net during that period.
How harsh are winters in South Dakota?
South Dakota winter temperatures range from mild to extreme, producing average January highs below 32°F (0°C) and average lows below 10°F (-12°C).
Is Vermont one of the best states to live in?
According to CNBC, it's quality of life. For the fifth year in a row, the publication ranked Vermont the 2025 No. 1 state in the U.S. for quality of life, spotlighting the Green Mountain State's low crime rate, clean air, and healthy lifestyles for residents.