Creative & Education South Dakota (SD) Rank #43 of 50

Education Administrator Salary in South Dakota

The median education administrator salary in South Dakota is $89,936 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $102,200.

Median Salary
$89,936
vs National
$-12,264
State Rank
#43 of 50
Cost of Living
88%

Education Administrator Salary Overview in South Dakota (2026)

South Dakota ranks #43 out of 50 states for education administrator compensation. Education Administrator salaries in South Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $89,936 per year, education administrators in South Dakota earn $12,264 less than the national median of $102,200.

A key advantage of working in South Dakota is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $89,936 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $102,200 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in South Dakota is significant: education administrators at the 10th percentile earn $54,560, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $142,560 — a $88,000 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Dakota for this role is Sioux Falls, where the median reaches $94,024.

Nationally, education administrator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for education administrators across the country.

Education Administrator Salary in South Dakota by Experience

In South Dakota, an entry-level education administrator earns around $57,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $136,400 per year. The cost of living index in South Dakota is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$57,200
$-7,800 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$91,520
$-12,480 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$136,400
$-18,600 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in South Dakota

Percentile SD Salary
10th Percentile $54,560
25th Percentile $68,640
Median (50th) $89,936
75th Percentile $116,160
90th Percentile $142,560

Education Administrator Salary by City in South Dakota

The largest employment areas for education administrators in South Dakota include Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, and Brookings. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Education Administrator in South Dakota

Education

Most education administrator positions require a master's degree. South Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Educational LeadershipBudget ManagementPolicy DevelopmentStaff EvaluationAccreditationCommunication

Job Outlook in South Dakota

Nationally, education administrator employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). South Dakota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Education Administrator Salary in South Dakota

How much does a Education Administrator make in South Dakota? ▼
The median education administrator salary in South Dakota is $89,936 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $102,200. Salaries range from $54,560 (10th percentile) to $142,560 (90th percentile).
How much does a Education Administrator make per hour in South Dakota? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $89,936, a education administrator in South Dakota earns approximately $43 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is South Dakota a good state for education administrators? ▼
South Dakota ranks #43 out of 50 states for education administrator pay. The cost of living index is 88% of the national average. Entry-level education administrators earn $57,200, while senior professionals earn $136,400.
How does South Dakota compare to other states for education administrator salary? ▼
The highest paying state for education administrators is Hawaii at $173,740. South Dakota's median of $89,936 ranks #43 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Tennessee ($90,958) and Missouri ($89,936).
What is the entry-level education administrator salary in South Dakota? ▼
An entry-level education administrator in South Dakota earns approximately $57,200 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $91,520. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $136,400.
What city in South Dakota pays education administrators the most? ▼
Sioux Falls is the highest paying city in South Dakota for education administrators, with a median salary of $94,024. Other cities include Rapid City and Aberdeen.