Apartments for Rent in South Dakota

South Dakota

South Dakota is a largely rural state covered in grasslands, prairies and farms and dotted with low mountain ranges and carved rock formations that display the rich colors of a variety of stone. The most prominent man-made site is Mount Rushmore National Monument, while the most impressive natural region is the hot, desert regions of the Badlands. South Dakota offers a relaxed, rural atmosphere for apartment hunters looking for a slow pace of life.

South Dakota is still a largely agricultural state, with beef, wheat, corn, wool, mutton and alfalfa major contributors to the economy. The large cornfields have given rise to a relatively new source of revenue for the state – the production of ethanol fuel. Gold mining continues in the state as well, although not at the harried pace of the last two centuries. Black Hills gold is still some of the most highly prized gold in the country.

Outdoor Attractions

The prairies and grasslands of South Dakota are home to an amazing array of wildlife, including prairie dogs and bison, and visitors come to do wildlife photography from across the country. The Missouri River offers outstanding fishing and boating as well as wake-boarding and swimming in some areas.

The most popular activities here, however, focus on the natural wonders of the state. The Badlands offer rock climbing challenges to all levels of climbers, and two major cave systems (Jewel Cave and Wind Cave) draw spelunkers from around the world. In fact, Jewel Cave is the second-longest cave in the world, with 139 miles of explored passages.

Renting an apartment in South Dakota requires not only a love of nature, but of extreme weather. Being outdoors means hot summers and brutal, sometimes dangerous, winter blizzards.

Colleges and Universities

It's interesting to note that this rural state actually has the highest percentage of high school graduates in the country, so despite a low population, education is a top priority in South Dakota.

The rural nature of the state has given rise to several universities that serve the residents as well as the unique South Dakota Public Universities Research Complex, which serves four of the largest universities by offering a centralized research park. There are also several small colleges located on or near Native American Reservations which focus on educational opportunities for Native Americans.

Real Estate and Housing

The cost of an apartment anywhere in South Dakota is about 15% less than the national average. This has given rise to great interest, particularly in the state's largest city, Sioux Falls, which was recently designated by Forbes Magazine as one of the best small metro areas in the country.

The cost of living is also low in South Dakota, which eases the burden on those renting apartments here. No personal or corporate state income taxes and no inheritance tax all mean you will have more money for two important features you'll want in your South Dakota apartment – air conditioning and good central heating!