Teacher (K-12) Salary in South Dakota
The median teacher (k-12) salary in South Dakota is $54,287 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $61,690.
Teacher (K-12) Salary Overview in South Dakota (2026)
South Dakota ranks #43 out of 50 states for teacher (k-12) compensation. Teacher (K-12) salaries in South Dakota are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $54,287 per year, teacher (k-12)s in South Dakota earn $7,403 less than the national median of $61,690.
A key advantage of working in South Dakota is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $54,287 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $61,690 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in South Dakota is significant: teacher (k-12)s at the 10th percentile earn $36,432, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $88,880 — a $52,448 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 $56,755.
Nationally, teacher (k-12) employment is projected to grow 1% over the next decade (slower than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for teacher (k-12)s across the country.
Teacher (K-12) Salary in South Dakota by Experience
In South Dakota, an entry-level teacher (k-12) earns around $36,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $80,960 per year. The cost of living index in South Dakota is 88% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in South Dakota
| Percentile | SD Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,432 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,944 |
| Median (50th) | $54,287 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,696 |
| 90th Percentile | $88,880 |
Teacher (K-12) Salary by City in South Dakota
The largest employment areas for teacher (k-12)s 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 Teacher (K-12) in South Dakota
Education
Most teacher (k-12) positions require a bachelor's degree. South Dakota has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in South Dakota
Nationally, teacher (k-12) 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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