Free comparison
Moving from Montana to South Dakota
A side-by-side comparison drawn from BLS, BEA, Census, FBI, and NOAA. Big sky, no sales tax, rapidly gentrifying small towns. vs. No income tax, Mount Rushmore, banking & ranching.
Montana
Capital: Helena
Median household income $67,631 · winter low 14°F · 205 sunny days
Big sky, no sales tax, rapidly gentrifying small towns.
South Dakota
Capital: Pierre
Median household income $71,810 · winter low 6°F · 218 sunny days
No income tax, Mount Rushmore, banking & ranching.
South Dakota has an overall price level 88.6 (US avg = 100). Housing dominates the difference.
Summer high 86°F · Winter low 6°F · 218 sunny days/yr.
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See the full comparisonFrequently asked
Is it cheaper to live in South Dakota than Montana?
South Dakota's overall price level is roughly 88.7 (US avg = 100), vs about 95 for Montana — based on BEA Regional Price Parities. Housing is the dominant driver of the difference. Run a comparison for the full, current breakdown.
What's the income tax difference?
Montana tops out at 5.65% income tax. South Dakota tops out at 0%.
How long do I have to register my vehicle in South Dakota?
Most South Dakota residents must register a vehicle within 30-60 days of moving. Check the piomover report for state-specific deadlines.