Personal Care & Fitness South Dakota (SD) Rank #43 of 50

Esthetician Salary in South Dakota

The median esthetician salary in South Dakota is $33,616 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $38,200.

Median Salary
$33,616
vs National
$-4,584
State Rank
#43 of 50
Cost of Living
88%

Esthetician Salary Overview in South Dakota (2026)

South Dakota ranks #43 out of 50 states for esthetician compensation. Esthetician salaries in South Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $33,616 per year, estheticians in South Dakota earn $4,584 less than the national median of $38,200.

A key advantage of working in South Dakota is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $33,616 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $38,200 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in South Dakota is significant: estheticians at the 10th percentile earn $21,120, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $57,200 — a $36,080 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 $35,144.

Nationally, esthetician employment is projected to grow 17% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in South Dakota and beyond.

Esthetician Salary in South Dakota by Experience

In South Dakota, an entry-level esthetician earns around $22,880, while experienced professionals earn up to $54,560 per year. The cost of living index in South Dakota is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$22,880
$-3,120 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$34,320
$-4,680 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$54,560
$-7,440 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in South Dakota

Percentile SD Salary
10th Percentile $21,120
25th Percentile $26,400
Median (50th) $33,616
75th Percentile $45,760
90th Percentile $57,200

Esthetician Salary by City in South Dakota

The largest employment areas for estheticians 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 Esthetician in South Dakota

Education

Most esthetician positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. South Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

SkincareFacial TreatmentsProduct KnowledgeClient ConsultationSanitationAnatomy

Job Outlook in South Dakota

Nationally, esthetician employment is projected to grow 17% over the next decade (much faster than average). South Dakota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Esthetician Salary in South Dakota

How much does a Esthetician make in South Dakota? ▼
The median esthetician salary in South Dakota is $33,616 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $38,200. Salaries range from $21,120 (10th percentile) to $57,200 (90th percentile).
How much does a Esthetician make per hour in South Dakota? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $33,616, a esthetician in South Dakota earns approximately $16 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is South Dakota a good state for estheticians? ▼
South Dakota ranks #43 out of 50 states for esthetician pay. The cost of living index is 88% of the national average. Entry-level estheticians earn $22,880, while senior professionals earn $54,560.
How does South Dakota compare to other states for esthetician salary? ▼
The highest paying state for estheticians is Hawaii at $64,940. South Dakota's median of $33,616 ranks #43 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Tennessee ($33,998) and Missouri ($33,616).
What is the entry-level esthetician salary in South Dakota? ▼
An entry-level esthetician in South Dakota earns approximately $22,880 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $34,320. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $54,560.
What city in South Dakota pays estheticians the most? ▼
Sioux Falls is the highest paying city in South Dakota for estheticians, with a median salary of $35,144. Other cities include Rapid City and Aberdeen.