Geologist Salary in Rapid City, South Dakota
The median geologist salary in Rapid City, SD is $75,312 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 2.3% above the South Dakota state average.
Geologist Pay in Rapid City: What to Expect (2026)
Rapid City offers a median geologist salary of $75,312, which is $1,674 above the South Dakota state average of $73,638. Compared to the national median of $83,680, Rapid City pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Rapid City's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for geologists in Rapid City spans from $45,900 at the 10th percentile to $133,200 at the 90th percentile — a $87,300 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $48,600, while senior geologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $126,000. Rapid City is a smaller market (pop. 74,703), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Geologist Salary in Rapid City by Experience
In Rapid City, an entry-level geologist earns around $48,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $126,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Rapid City, SD
| Percentile | Rapid City |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $45,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $56,700 |
| Median (50th) | $75,312 |
| 75th Percentile | $100,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $133,200 |
Geologist Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Geologist in Rapid City
Education
Most geologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Rapid City and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, geologist employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Rapid City may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Geologist Jobs in Rapid City
Browse open geologist positions in Rapid City, SD: