If you’re considering moving to South Dakota, you’ll find a state with a growing economy and a variety of career opportunities. South Dakota’s major industries include agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing, and there are a variety of jobs available. Whether you’re browsing homes for sale in Sioux Falls or apartments in Rapid City, the state’s industries provide a strong foundation for professional growth. Homebuyers and renters benefit from the combination of career opportunities and affordable living in South Dakota. Explore South Dakota’s top industries and why they’re perfect for your next move.
South Dakota Overview: Home Prices, Income, and Employment
Top Employers in South Dakota
Avera Health: 20,000 employees Walmart: 5,884 employees Monument Health: 5,100 employees Ellsworth Air Force Base: 4,300 employees Sanford Health: 4,000 employees
South Dakota’s 10 Major Industries
1. Agriculture
Major Employers: POET (Sioux Falls), Agtegra Cooperative (Aberdeen), Valley Queen Cheese (Milbank)
Agriculture is the backbone of South Dakota’s economy, accounting for 13 percent of the state’s GDP and employing thousands of people in farming, ranching, and food production. POET offers roles in the renewable energy sector, while Agtegra specializes in crop marketing and farm supply operations. Valley Queen Cheese offers dairy processing and food manufacturing opportunities. South Dakota’s open landscape and supportive farming community attract professionals interested in agriculture and sustainable practices. This state is an ideal location for those seeking work-life balance in the countryside or suburbs.
Considering moving to South Dakota to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Sioux Falls or Aberdeen.
2. Tourism
Major Employers: Mount Rushmore National Memorial (Keystone), Crazy Horse Memorial (Custer), Deadwood Gaming Association (Deadwood)
Thanks to South Dakota’s iconic landmarks and natural beauty, tourism is thriving, and positions in hospitality, marketing, and park management are also available. Crazy Horse Memorial employs cultural experts, and the Deadwood Gaming Association supports casino operations and entertainment roles. This industry attracts job seekers who value a vibrant and dynamic work environment. Close to tourist attractions like Rapid City and Custer, the city offers affordable housing options and access to great outdoor activities.
Considering moving to South Dakota to work in this industry? Consider selling a home in Rapid City or Custer.
3. Manufacturing
Major Employers: Trail King Industries (Mitchell), Rosenbauer America (Lions), Daktronics (Brookings)
South Dakota’s manufacturing sector spans equipment production, technology, and specialty vehicles. Trail King offers engineering and assembly roles, while Daktronics specializes in electronic displays. Rosenbauer America supports custom fire equipment manufacturing positions. Home buyers and renters in cities like Mitchell and Brookings enjoy easy access to these employers and an excellent quality of life.
Considering moving to South Dakota to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Mitchell or Brookings.
4. Healthcare
Major Employers: Sanford Health (Sioux Falls), Avera Health (Sioux Falls), Monument Health (Rapid City)
Opportunities abound in the healthcare sector, from nursing to management positions. Sanford Health and Avera Health are two of the state’s largest employers and provide comprehensive health care services. Monument Health also offers careers in patient care, research, and hospital management. South Dakota’s growing and aging population ensures continued demand for medical professionals
Considering moving to South Dakota to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Sioux Falls or Rapid City.
5. Education
Major Employers: South Dakota State University (Brookings), University of South Dakota (Vermilion), Black Hills State University (Spearfish)
South Dakota’s education sector includes institutions of higher education and the public school system. South Dakota State University and Black Hills State University employ faculty, researchers, and support staff. The University of South Dakota also offers a variety of academic and administrative opportunities. The state values education and creates a nurturing environment for students and educators alike.
Considering moving to South Dakota to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Brookings or Spearfish.
6. Financial services
Major Employers: First Premier Bank (Sioux Falls), Great Western Bank (Sioux Falls), Citi (Sioux Falls location)
South Dakota has a thriving financial services industry with banking, credit processing, and insurance industries. First Premier Bank and Citi offer positions in finance, technology and customer service. The industry benefits from the state’s business tax incentives and attracts major companies. Professionals in this field enjoy stable careers and competitive salaries with housing opportunities in Sioux Falls and the surrounding areas.
Considering moving to South Dakota to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Sioux Falls or Watertown.
7. Energy and utilities
Major Employers: Basin Electric Power Cooperative (South Dakota location), Black Hills Energy (Rapid City), Otter Tail Power Company (South Dakota location)
South Dakota’s energy sector includes renewable energy, conventional utilities, and infrastructure maintenance. In fact, 77% of the state’s electricity was generated from renewable sources. Black Hills Energy offers a role in energy distribution and sustainability efforts. Basin Electric Power Cooperative offers operations and engineering opportunities. The state’s focus on renewable resources attracts environmentally conscious professionals. Residents near major employers enjoy a balance of urban and rural living.
Considering moving to South Dakota to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Rapid City or Huron.
8. Retail and trade
Major Employers: Scheels (South Dakota location), Menards (South Dakota location), Walmart (South Dakota location)
In addition to adding more than $4 billion to the state’s GDP, the retail and trade industry supports a wide range of jobs from management to customer service. Shells and Menards have retail operations and distribution roles. Walmart is a major employer with opportunities throughout the state. South Dakota’s vibrant communities and shopping hubs ensure continued demand for retail professionals. Housing options near retail centers mean shorter commutes for homeowners and renters in this industry.
Considering moving to South Dakota to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Sioux Falls or Watertown.
9. Transportation and logistics
Major Employers: Sioux Falls Regional Airport (Sioux Falls), CHS Inc. (South Dakota location), FedEx (South Dakota location)
Transportation and logistics are essential to South Dakota’s economy, with employment in maritime, aviation, and supply chain management. Sioux Falls Regional Airport has an operational and customer service role. CHS Inc. employs logistics and distribution professionals at all locations. Industrial growth provides stability for workers and supports the state’s agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Residents benefit from excellent transportation links and a thriving local economy.
Considering moving to South Dakota to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Sioux Falls or Aberdeen.
10. Technology and innovation
Major Employers: Raven Industries (Sioux Falls), SAB Biotherapeutics (Sioux Falls), RESPEC (Rapid City)
Technology is an emerging industry in South Dakota, with careers in research, development, and engineering. More than one-fifth of the state’s jobs are in science or technology-related fields. Raven Industries specializes in precision agriculture and autonomous solutions, while SAB Biotherapeutics focuses on advances in biotechnology. RESPEC offers engineering and data analysis roles. Cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City offer dynamic job markets and a quality lifestyle.
Considering moving to South Dakota to work in this industry? Consider homes for sale in Sioux Falls or Rapid City.
