South Dakota
Low tax burden · COL index 95
Wins 5 categories
Washington
Moderate tax burden · COL index 117
Wins 7 categories
Neither South Dakota nor Washington levies a state income tax. Cost of living in Washington (index 117) runs 23% higher than South Dakota (index 95). The median home in Washington costs $570K vs $310K in South Dakota. Politically, South Dakota voted Republican in 2024 (R+27.0) while Washington went Democratic (D+16.0).
Taxes
Housing & Cost of Living
Crime & Safety
Healthcare
Education
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Utilities & Daily Costs
Social Policy
Category wins
5
South Dakota
7
Washington
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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!
How much is $100,000 after taxes in South Dakota?
Which billionaire lives in South Dakota?
What is the cost of living in South Dakota vs Washington state?
Overall cost of living in Seattle, WA is 65.1% higher than in Sioux Falls, SD. The average listing price for a home in Seattle, WA is $1,119,686, which is 169.6% higher than Sioux Falls, SD. The average cost of groceries in Seattle, WA is 15.2% higher than Sioux Falls, SD.