Free comparison
Moving from South Dakota to Iowa
A side-by-side comparison drawn from BLS, BEA, Census, FBI, and NOAA. No income tax, Mount Rushmore, banking & ranching. vs. Corn country, low unemployment, surprisingly arts-rich.
South Dakota
Capital: Pierre
Median household income $71,810 · winter low 6°F · 218 sunny days
No income tax, Mount Rushmore, banking & ranching.
Iowa
Capital: Des Moines
Median household income $70,571 · winter low 13°F · 200 sunny days
Corn country, low unemployment, surprisingly arts-rich.
Iowa has an overall price level 87.8 (US avg = 100). Housing dominates the difference.
Summer high 85°F · Winter low 13°F · 200 sunny days/yr.
Get the full South Dakota → Iowa report
Schools, healthcare, taxes, transportation, lifestyle, crime, family fit, move logistics, and a 90-day move timeline.
See the full comparisonFrequently asked
Is it cheaper to live in Iowa than South Dakota?
Iowa's overall price level is roughly 90 (US avg = 100), vs about 88.7 for South Dakota, 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?
South Dakota tops out at 0% income tax. Iowa tops out at 3.8%.
How long do I have to register my vehicle in Iowa?
Most Iowa residents must register a vehicle within 30-60 days of moving. Check the piomover report for state-specific deadlines.