8 Wallet-Friendly Small Towns To Retire In South Dakota

South Dakota is rapidly gaining recognition as a prime destination for retirees, especially those seeking a financially secure and fulfilling lifestyle. With the average cost of housing ranging between $321,000 and $345,000, it offers a more affordable alternative compared to many other states. Additionally, South Dakota has no state income tax, contributing to a lower overall cost of living. This makes it an appealing choice among retirees hoping to make the most of their retirement income without compromising their quality of life. The towns discussed below are not only more affordable than the state average, but they also offer a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere, with an abundance of natural beauty.

Lemmon

Lemmon, South Dakota, known as ‘the cowboy capital,’ is a small town with approximately 1,140 residents, located near the Northern Black Hills. With an average housing price of around $148,000, the cost of living is significantly less than the state median, making it one of the most affordable towns in South Dakota. The Lemmon Senior Citizens Center provides an opportunity for older residents to meet and socialize, as well as participate in events and activities. One of the most beautiful locations in town is the World’s Largest Petrified Wood Park. This attraction has over 100 structures and is created entirely out of petrified wood and fossils, and includes waterfalls, a castle, and a wishing well. For a little history of the area, visit the Grand River Museum, which, through a wide range of exhibits, tells the local history of Lemmon.

Redfield

The town of Redfield is located in Northeast South Dakota, popular for its outdoor activities. The average house price is approximately $170,000, and there are several hospitals within 50 miles of town, the main one being Community Memorial Hospital, which provides residents with top-quality health care. There is also a number of senior care services and facilities, such as the Redfield Senior Center, where engaging activities are always taking place, with bingo, pool, quilting, card parties, as well as health and educational programs; there is something for everyone. At the Hav-A-Rest Park and Hav-A-Rest Campground, visitors can access the Redfield Lake for boating, fishing, and swimming, or relax near the playground, picnic area, and, of course, the comfort station.

Vermillion

On the southeastern corner of South Dakota, located near the mouth of the Vermillion River, is the town of Vermillion. The median house price is approximately $269,700, making it an affordable town with no shortage of activities. There are five senior housing options in and around town, as well as the Vermillion Senior Citizens Center, offering educational and informational services and programs. The Parks and Recreation Department of Vermillion provides activities to all citizens, providing elderly residents an opportunity to expand their interests and stay active. Sports fans can often be found at the Dakota Dome, a multi-purpose stadium that hosts various athletic events throughout the year. If you would rather play than watch, the Bluffs Golf Course offers an 18-hole championship course with a walking trail and other amenities.

Brookings

In eastern South Dakota is the energetic college town of Brookings. Filled with friendly people and ranked as one of the safest cities in South Dakota, as well as having an average house price of around $311,000, makes Brookings a great choice for retirement. There are numerous services and living options for older residents, such as the Brookings Activity Center, which provides residents over the age of 55 a place to socialize and engage in various activities, events, and access to services. Spend the day in Downtown Brookings, where those on a budget can find shops and restaurants to explore. For local produce and crafts, head over to the Brookings Farmers Market, located on the South Dakota State University campus. While there, you can visit the McCrory Gardens, a sprawling arboretum featuring many beautiful plants and trees.

Huron

Huron, South Dakota, is a place that is perfect for those seeking a more active retirement, with a larger population of 14,515, and more activities and services are available compared to other smaller towns. The average housing price is around $220,000, which, despite its size and number of residents, is still lower than the state median. The Huron Area Senior Center is popular among older residents as it offers a number of services and programs that promote overall well-being. Huron is also home to the Senior Games, a popular event not only to watch but also to participate. In the warmer months, residents head over to Splash Central Waterpark to cool down in an Olympic-sized pool and relax in the lazy river.

Winner

The town of Winner is located in the south-central region of South Dakota. With the best utility rates in the state and an average housing price of $200,000, Winner rightfully claims its name. There are plenty of opportunities for residents to mingle through the Winner Community Center and the Senior Citizens Center, where social gatherings, education workshops, and wellness programs are held. For theater lovers, the Winner Community Playhouse performing arts theater offers a variety of live performances throughout the year that are sure to entertain. The town also has two movie theaters: the newly renovated PIX Theater, located on Main Street, and the Winner Drive-in Theater LLC, where you can sit under the stars and soak up the nostalgia.

Milbank

Located along the South Fork of the Whetstone River is Milbank, South Dakota. The average price of housing in the area is around $262,500, which is well below the state median. Known as an active community, Milbank has a variety of activities that are sure to keep you busy, rain or shine. Join an event or league through the City Parks and Recreation, such as baseball, skating, or swimming. There is also the 60’s Plus Dining in Milbank program, offered at the local Senior Center, which offers home-style meals and home delivery to residents over the age of 60. Play a round of golf at the Whetstone Creek Golf Course, an 18-hole course that features a bar and grill amid the stunning rolling hills of South Dakota.

Belle Fourche

Belle Fourche is a town known as the Northern gateway to the Black Hills of Western South Dakota. The average housing price for the area is around $315,000, making it lower than the state average and a great location for those seeking to retire. There are many places in which older residents can gather, such as the Rec Center, where resources for seniors are provided, as well as the Belle Silver Lining Senior Center, which offers a range of services and activities, such as bingo, chair yoga, and organized meals and events. Get up and moving with a visit to the Geographic Center of the Nation Monument, where you can explore and admire this artistically stunning tourist attraction located approximately 20 miles outside of town.

As demonstrated by the towns discussed in South Dakota, retirees can enjoy a wide variety of free and low-cost activities, such as fishing, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing in the many scenic landscapes and parks throughout the state. Many small towns in South Dakota have welcoming communities, making it easier to form connections and enjoy a slower pace of life. Due to the affordability, recreational opportunities, and support systems for retirees, South Dakota has earned a spot as one of the top destinations for retirement, ranking number 5 for the best places to retire in the nation.