Zoologist Salary in Rapid City, South Dakota
The median zoologist salary in Rapid City, SD is $61,407 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 2.3% above the South Dakota state average.
Zoologist Pay in Rapid City: What to Expect (2026)
Rapid City offers a median zoologist salary of $61,407, which is $1,365 above the South Dakota state average of $60,042. Compared to the national median of $68,230, 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 zoologists in Rapid City spans from $37,800 at the 10th percentile to $100,800 at the 90th percentile — a $63,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $40,500, while senior zoologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $94,500. Rapid City is a smaller market (pop. 74,703), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Zoologist Salary in Rapid City by Experience
In Rapid City, an entry-level zoologist earns around $40,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $94,500 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 | $37,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,600 |
| Median (50th) | $61,407 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $100,800 |
Zoologist Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Zoologist in Rapid City
Education
Most zoologist positions require a bachelor's degree. Rapid City and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, zoologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Rapid City may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Zoologist Jobs in Rapid City
Browse open zoologist positions in Rapid City, SD: