Registered Nurse Salary in Rapid City, South Dakota
The median registered nurse salary in Rapid City, SD is $73,098 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 2.3% above the South Dakota state average.
Registered Nurse Pay in Rapid City: What to Expect (2026)
Rapid City offers a median registered nurse salary of $73,098, which is $1,624 above the South Dakota state average of $71,474. Compared to the national median of $81,220, 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 registered nurses in Rapid City spans from $51,660 at the 10th percentile to $108,720 at the 90th percentile — a $57,060 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $52,200, while senior registered nurses with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $103,500. Rapid City is a smaller market (pop. 74,703), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Registered Nurse Salary in Rapid City by Experience
In Rapid City, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $52,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $103,500 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 | $51,660 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,120 |
| Median (50th) | $73,098 |
| 75th Percentile | $90,990 |
| 90th Percentile | $108,720 |
Registered Nurse Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Registered Nurse in Rapid City
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. Rapid City and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Rapid City may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Registered Nurse Jobs in Rapid City
Browse open registered nurse positions in Rapid City, SD: