Trades & Labor South Dakota (SD) Rank #44 of 50

Sheet Metal Worker Salary in South Dakota

The median sheet metal worker salary in South Dakota is $48,708 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $55,350.

Median Salary
$48,708
vs National
$-6,642
State Rank
#44 of 50
Cost of Living
88%

Sheet Metal Worker Salary Overview in South Dakota (2026)

South Dakota ranks #44 out of 50 states for sheet metal worker compensation. Sheet Metal Worker salaries in South Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $48,708 per year, sheet metal workers in South Dakota earn $6,642 less than the national median of $55,350.

A key advantage of working in South Dakota is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $48,708 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $55,350 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in South Dakota is significant: sheet metal workers at the 10th percentile earn $29,920, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $75,680 — a $45,760 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 $50,922.

Nationally, sheet metal worker employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for sheet metal workers across the country.

Sheet Metal Worker Salary in South Dakota by Experience

In South Dakota, an entry-level sheet metal worker earns around $31,680, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,160 per year. The cost of living index in South Dakota is 88% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$31,680
$-4,320 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$49,280
$-6,720 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$72,160
$-9,840 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in South Dakota

Percentile SD Salary
10th Percentile $29,920
25th Percentile $36,960
Median (50th) $48,708
75th Percentile $61,600
90th Percentile $75,680

Sheet Metal Worker Salary by City in South Dakota

The largest employment areas for sheet metal workers 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 Sheet Metal Worker in South Dakota

Education

Most sheet metal worker positions require a high school diploma + apprenticeship. South Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Sheet Metal FabricationHVAC DuctworkWeldingBlueprint ReadingMeasurementSafety

Job Outlook in South Dakota

Nationally, sheet metal worker employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). South Dakota's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Sheet Metal Worker Salary in South Dakota

How much does a Sheet Metal Worker make in South Dakota? ▼
The median sheet metal worker salary in South Dakota is $48,708 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $55,350. Salaries range from $29,920 (10th percentile) to $75,680 (90th percentile).
How much does a Sheet Metal Worker make per hour in South Dakota? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $48,708, a sheet metal worker in South Dakota earns approximately $23 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is South Dakota a good state for sheet metal workers? ▼
South Dakota ranks #44 out of 50 states for sheet metal worker pay. The cost of living index is 88% of the national average. Entry-level sheet metal workers earn $31,680, while senior professionals earn $72,160.
How does South Dakota compare to other states for sheet metal worker salary? ▼
The highest paying state for sheet metal workers is Hawaii at $98,523. South Dakota's median of $48,708 ranks #44 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Tennessee ($49,262) and Missouri ($48,708).
What is the entry-level sheet metal worker salary in South Dakota? ▼
An entry-level sheet metal worker in South Dakota earns approximately $31,680 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $49,280. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $72,160.
What city in South Dakota pays sheet metal workers the most? ▼
Sioux Falls is the highest paying city in South Dakota for sheet metal workers, with a median salary of $50,922. Other cities include Rapid City and Aberdeen.