Moving to Rapid City

Ready for a remarkable change of scenery? Picture your days graced with the breathtaking Rushmore Monument, framed by the majestic Black Hills. This isn't a vacation - this could be your life when you move to Rapid City, South Dakota. Our comprehensive relocation guide, filled with insights, tips and resources, is here to guide you every step of the way. From finding the perfect neighborhood to call home, to discovering vibrant downtown hotspots, consider this your all-access pass to making Rapid City your new address. Let's dive in!

Moving to Rapid City, SD landscape image

What to Know Before Moving to Rapid City

1. The Beauty of the Black Hills

When you move to Rapid City, you'll be literally living at the base of the majestic Black Hills. The hills, which offer incredible scenic drives, breathtaking views, and endless outdoor opportunities, are a top selling point for new residents. Look forward to camping, hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking and, not to mention, the stunning Mount Rushmore. With four distinguished sculpted heads of US Presidents etched into a granite cliff, it's a sight that never gets old. And, don't forget the Crazy Horse Memorial, another monumental landmark on the rise, that celebrates native American culture.

2. The City of Presidents

Speaking of presidents, did you know Rapid City is known as the "City of Presidents"? A series of life-size statues of every former US President graces the corners of downtown streets. These bronze statues make for a fascinating stroll and are just one example of the art-filled vibe of the city, which also hosts an Art Alley filled with rotating street art. These unexpected surprises bring a unique charm to everyday outings.

3. Local Wildlife Residents

Bison, Elk, and Mountain Goats, oh my! Moving to Rapid City gives you unique neighbors. The Custer State Park, approximately a 45-minute drive away, is home to the largest publicly owned bison herd in the world. Plus, you can't forget about the frisky prairie dogs and the dignified bald eagles. South Dakotans learn to live peacefully alongside these local wildlife residents, a lesson that city dwellers soon come to appreciate.

4. A Delightful Mix of Weather

If you're moving from a place that has a static weather pattern, Rapid City will introduce you to all four seasons. Unlike the winterless west or the summerless north, this city experiences a full cycle of seasons. From snowfall and a white Christmas to the mild and sunny weather perfect for summer adventures, the change of seasons keeps things exciting.

5. The Undeniably Unique Dinosaur Park

A fact that not many know- Rapid City is home to a one-of-a-kind landmark, the Dinosaur Park. Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, this park dates back to the 1930s and features gigantic dinosaur statues, providing both fun photo opportunities and panoramic views of the city. It's a quirky city symbol that you can't find anywhere else!

6. Rapid City's Love for Festivals

Prepare for an active social calendar! Rapid City loves its festivals. From the arts-centered Festival of Lights in winter to the summer favorite Central States Fair - there's always something to do and explore here. The highlight among all is the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, an annual gathering that attracts motorcycle enthusiasts from around the world.

In conclusion, moving to Rapid City, means being ready for an exciting life full of surprises, whether it's the thrill of coming face-to-face with wildlife, the joy of participating in dynamic festivals, or the awe of rich cultural history. It's a great city that knows how to perfectly blend urban functionality with natural serenity. So, packed your bags yet? Rapid City is waiting for you with open arms!

What to know before moving to Rapid City, SD image
See the 10 Best Movers Nearest You
(Unbiased) Ranking of the top movers in every city.

Pros and Cons of Living in Rapid City

Pros of Living in Rapid City

High Quality of Life

Rapid City, SD, boasts a high quality of life for its residents. The city is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Black Hills, Mt. Rushmore, and other natural attractions. These offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping, promoting a healthy, active lifestyle.

Low Cost of Living

Overall, the cost of living in Rapid City is below the national average. This includes key living costs such as housing, groceries, healthcare, and transportation, making it easier for residents to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle regardless of their income level.

Small Community Feel

Despite being a city, Rapid City maintains a close-knit, small community feel. The city offers a strong sense of social connection, with friendly neighborhoods, community events, and an overall peaceful environment.

Great Local Food Scene

Rapid City is known for its outstanding local food scene. From unique local eateries to delicious farmer's markets, there's plenty to explore for food lovers. This contributes to the overall appeal and unique culture of the city.

Safe Environment

Rapid City is generally a safe environment with lower crime rates compared to national averages. This makes it a great place for families and individuals who value safety and peace of mind.

Cons of Living in Rapid City

Remote Location

Rapid City is somewhat secluded, located far from other major metro areas. This remoteness can make long-distance travel more challenging and limit access to larger city amenities and services.

Extreme Weather Conditions

Rapid City experiences some extreme weather conditions. Winters can be very harsh with heavy snowfall, and summers can be quite hot. These conditions may be a challenge for individuals not used to such extremes.

Limited Public Transportation

The public transportation system in Rapid City is not as developed as in larger cities. This might be inconvenient for those without personal vehicles, especially for those who depend on public transit for commuting to work or running errands.

Limited Diversity

With its small community feel comes limited cultural and demographic diversity compared to larger cities. While this isn't an issue for everyone, some may miss the variety of perspectives and experiences found in more diverse cities.

Limited Entertainment and Nightlife

While Rapid City does have cultural and entertainment options, it doesn't offer the variety of nightlife and entertainment options found in larger cities. So those seeking a busy, bustling city nightlife might find it a bit lacking.

Modern day picture of Rapid City, SD highlighting pros and cons of living in Rapid City, SD

Is Rapid City a Good Place to Live?


Rapid City, SD is a great place to live because it offers a rich cultural history, stunning views of nature at nearby Mount Rushmore and the Badlands, and an incredibly low unemployment rate. It's also home to friendly locals, an affordable housing market, and a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and fishing. Plus, who could resist the charm of the town's annual Dinosaur Park days?


What Is Rapid City Famous For?

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Just a stone's throw from Rapid City is the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial, a massive granite carving featuring the faces of four famous U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. This patriotic landmark is an absolute must-see and a testament to America's rich history and the sculpting prowess of Gutzon Borglum and his crew.

Dinosaur Park

Roaring into our list is Dinosaur Park! Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, the park has endeared itself to locals and tourists alike since 1936. It features seven life-sized concrete dinosaur statues, offering an amusing and educational trip back to the Jurassic era that's fun for the whole herd.

City of Presidents

Stroll around Downtown Rapid City and you'll find yourself rubbing shoulders with American Presidents... in bronze! America's history comes alive with a series of life-size bronze statues of the country's past leaders, an outdoor gallery known as the "City of Presidents". It's like a historical scavenger hunt right in the heart of the city.

Custer State Park

One of the nation's largest state parks, Custer State Park is a place of stunning natural beauty that never fails to wow its visitors. It's only a short drive from Rapid City. Complete with clear mountain lakes, lush rolling plains, and diverse wildlife - including a herd of 1,300 free-roaming bison - the park is a sanctuary of peace and adventure with plenty to offer every outdoor enthusiast.

Capital building of Rapid City, SD in artistic rendering

Overview of Tax Rates

Property Tax

In Rapid City, SD the average property tax rate is around 1.14% in 2023, lower than the national average of 1.07%. This rate is adjusted annually based on the county's budget needs and the total assessed value of all property within the county.

Sales Tax

As of 2023, the sales tax rate in Rapid City is 6.5%, which is moderate compared to the rest of the country. This consists of 4.5% state tax and an additional 2% local city tax.

Income Tax

Rapid City, like the rest of South Dakota, does not levy a state income tax as of 2023, making it one of the few states in the US with no state income tax. However, residents still have to pay federal income taxes.

Housing Market

Rapid City, SD, exhibits a lower average property price than the US in general, averaging around $212,100 compared to the US median of $231,200. Furthermore, the city's average monthly rent stands at approximately $821, which is notably less than the US average of $1,062. The city also overshadows the national average in terms of home value appreciation rate. However, its higher property tax rate at 1.18% as against the US average of 1.08% is a crucial factor to consider. These numbers indicate that Rapid City, SD provides a significantly affordable living for both renters and buyers.

Cost of Living

Rapid City, SD offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many other cities in the United States. This affordability is largely due to lower housing costs. However, the cost of healthcare and utilities tend to be slightly above the national average. Overall, Rapid City provides a balance of affordability and quality of life, making it an attractive destination for individuals and families searching for a cost-effective living environment.

Weather & Natural Disasters

Rapid City, SD enjoys a semi-arid continental climate with four distinct seasons. The summers are warm to hot with temperatures often reaching into the 80s or even 90s. Winters, however, can be quite harsh with temperature often dropping below freezing and snowfall being a common occurrence. Spring and fall provide milder temperatures, making them the most pleasant times of the year. The weather can be quite erratic, with thunderstorms being frequent during summer months, often leading to flash flooding. Rapid City is also prone to hail and occasional tornadoes. Winter blizzards can bring the city to a standstill and the surrounding area faces wildfire risk during dry periods. Despite these challenges, the diverse weather patterns and clear, sunny skies make Rapid City a unique and captivating place to live.

Typical weather in Rapid City, SD

Economy & Job Market

* Tourism

* Healthcare

* Government Services

* Education

* Retail

Once a thriving stagecoach stop and gold mining hub, Rapid City's economy has dynamically evolved since its Wild West days into a diverse and vibrant tapestry of innumerable dimensions. The Mount Rushmore State's economy is muscled by tourism, boosted by attractions like Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, and the very emblem of American pride—Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Lovely, isn't it? Healthcare also forms a significant part of the city's economic pulse with Regional Health Rapid City Hospital being a key employer. Education and government services are important economic pillars as well, with Ellsworth Air Force Base and the School of Mines & Technology being instrumental in the economic story. The retail sector, owing to the city's ever-thriving tourism, is the cherry on this economic sundae--enchanting, irreplaceable!

So, are you planning on moving to Rapid City to dig some gold in the job market? There's a lot you should know! Rapid City reportedly has an impressive unemployment rate, often lower than the national average. Giddy-up! The best opportunities await you in health, education, and government services, so it's a great destination for educators, military personnel, doctors and nurses. Don't fret if you are not in those sectors! Remember, Rapid City is big on tourism, so if you have a knack for hospitality, a career in the tourism industry may be lying in wait just for you. How exciting is that? You'll also find opportunities in the retail sector, especially in large retailers like Walmart and Sam's Club. So whether you're a health guru, education whiz, government official, or a master salesperson, Rapid City could be your pot of gold at the end of the job-seeking rainbow.

Traffic and Transportation

Welcome to Rapid City, SD where the average commute time is a sprightly 16 minutes! That's nearly half the national average! Scooting around the city is a joy ride with the Rapid Transit System (RTS), the jolly backbone of public transportation here. RTS provides bus service to major locations across town, just hop on, sit back, and enjoy the ride. But wait! Ever wanted to soar over the Black Hills or swiftly jet off to your next business meeting? Well buckle up, because Rapid City Regional Airport has got you covered, connecting this gleaming city to the skies. You can zip off to several major U.S. hubs and reach your destination with a smile. Traffic blues? We prefer to think in Rapid City reds and greens! High-speed highways, breezy bus rides, and high-flying aircraft are all part of the Rapid City ride. Enjoy your trip, folks!

What is the traffic like in Rapid City, SD?

Best Neighborhoods in Rapid City

1. Downtown Rapid City

Let's begin our virtual tour with Downtown Rapid City, the heart and soul of the city. Here, history and modernity blend harmoniously. The neighborhood is peppered with beautiful historic buildings, art galleries and a delightful mix of quaint shops, and trendy boutiques. Downtown is also the gastronomic center of the city. Whether you're a fan of authentic American BBQ or looking for vegan options, you'll find a restaurant to satisfy your cravings. Downtown is definitely for those who love living amidst the hustle and bustle of the city while enjoying a good dose of art and culture.

2. West Boulevard

Next up is West Boulevard, a neighborhood notable for its charming and picturesque tree-lined streets. If you have a penchant for historic homes, you'd fall in love with this area that showcases beautiful houses dating back to the late 1800s. West Boulevard is characterized by a warm, friendly community vibe. Couple that with the neighborhood's proximity to parks and its walkability to downtown, you've got an area that's perfect for anyone who enjoys a laid-back lifestyle in a historic setting.

3. Chapel Valley

If tranquil, yet effortlessly vibrant neighborhood-life appeals to you, Chapel Valley is one you should consider. Known for its gorgeous residential areas nestled among picturesque hills, Chapel Valley offers a quiet retreat away from city life. Here, hiking trails and lovely parks are aplenty, so outdoor enthusiasts will feel right at home. This well-established neighborhood, with its good schools and friendly community, makes a great choice for families too.

4. Mount Rushmore

How about living where you can have coffee while gazing at one of the most iconic landmarks in the nation? We're talking about the Mount Rushmore neighborhood. Aside from the bragging rights, the area is known for its beautiful, well-maintained properties and a strong sense of community. The neighborhood also puts you close to Black Hills National Forest, an outdoor lover's paradise. It's safe to say, Mount Rushmore neighborhood offers a uniquely patriotic and nature-infused living experience.

5. Rapid Valley

Rounding off our list is Rapid Valley. This neighborhood combines the comforts of suburban life with the conveniences of city living. With its spacious homes, large yards, and top-notch schools, Rapid Valley is particularly attractive to families. Plus, let's not forget the breathtaking views of the prairie and adjoining mountains. The neighborhood is also a short drive away from shopping centers, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. For those looking for a blend of tranquility and convenience, Rapid Valley fits the bill.

In a nutshell, Rapid City offers a variety of neighborhoods each offering their own unique charm and character. So whether you're a history buff, an avid nature lover, a family person, or someone who enjoys a vibrant city life, there's a neighborhood waiting for you in Rapid City, SD. As with any city, make sure you visit and spend time in each neighborhood before deciding which vibe suits you best. Welcome to Rapid City!

Best neighborhoods in Rapid City, SD image

Things to Do

Whether you're relocating for work, retirement, or the sheer love of the Midwest, Rapid City promises plenty of fun and adventure. Nestled in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Rapid City not only offers breathtaking landscapes but holds a nexus of historical, cultural, and outdoor attractions that cater to all sorts of interests. Here are seven must-see destinations ensuring you feel right at home in "The City of Presidents".

1. The Journey Museum and Learning Center

This cultural gem offers a whirlwind tour through billions of years encompassing the history of the Black Hills, from its geological formation to the 1972 flood. Comprising four major prehistoric and historic collections, the Journey Museum frequently hosts special exhibitions, events, and educational programs.

2. Art Alley

Unleash your inner artist with a stroll down Art Alley. Located between 6th and 7th streets, this dynamic urban canvas offers a riot of color and creativity from local and global artists. The murals change frequently, offering something fresh each visit as this public art space evolves with the city's vibey pulse.

3. Main Street Square

Main street Square is the heart and soul of downtown Rapid City, hosting over 200 events each year. From summertime concerts and winter ice skating to food and beer festivals, you'll never run out of activities in this lively community space, no matter the season.

4. Dinosaur Park

Dating back to the 1930s, Dinosaur Park is one of Rapid City's oldest (and quirkiest) tourist attractions. Here, you'll find life-sized concrete replicas of seven prehistoric reptiles strategically placed on a ridge with sweeping views of Rapid City below. Don't forget your camera!

5. Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries

If you're eager for a touch of local culture and history, check out the Prairie Edge Trading Co. & Galleries. This treasure trove specializes in Native American and Western arts, crafts, literature, and music. You'll get to experience every slice of historical local life within these walls!

6. Black Hills Farmers Market

Experience the luscious fresh produce of South Dakota at the Black Hills Farmers Market. Lying somewhat off the beaten track at Founders Park, this is a platform for demonstration and conversation around the best of local farming. Discover local honey, cheeses, organic vegetables, and handcrafted goods every Saturday during May to October.

7. The Chapel in the Hills

Built as an exact replica of the Borgund Stavkirke in Norway, this chapel is a stunningly detailed piece of architecture you might not expect to find in Rapid City. Add in the serenity of the surrounding Black Hills, and it becomes a place for quiet contemplation and awe-inspiring sightseeing in equal measure. This hidden Sacred gem must be on your list!

Whether you're relishing the eclectic vibe of Art Alley, visiting the towering giants of Dinosaur Park, or seeking tranquility at the Chapel in the Hills, relocating to Rapid City is more than a geographical transition. It's a journey into the heart of America's Great Plains, filled with unforgettable experiences that will make your new home truly feel like home. Happy exploring!

Things to do in Rapid City, SD?

Find Movers for Your Rapid City Relocation

Transitioning to a new area is a big decision, and Rapid City has plenty to offer. By now, the allure of Rapid City's vibrant neighborhoods, rich culture, and scenic beauty has hopefully captivated your interest. When you're ready to make the move, a smooth transition awaits thanks to Great Guys Moving, your ally in relocation. Through their network of reputable, licensed and insured moving companies, you'll get a seamless and affordable moving experience. Why not get started now? Kindly request a free moving quote through Great Guys Moving for your upcoming move to Rapid City and take your first step towards your new, exciting chapter.

See The Best Movers For Moving To South Dakota From...

Find out how much your move costs!