Salaries in Rapid City, SD

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
City
Salary

What is the average salary in Rapid City, SD?

The average salary in Rapid City, SD is $53,633 per year.

The average salary in Rapid City, SD, stands at 53,633 dollars per year. This figure offers a snapshot of the earning potential across various industries. Salaries can vary widely based on the job sector and level of experience.


Here are some average salaries for different job categories in Rapid City:

  • Retail: $26,500
  • Healthcare: $37,883
  • Education: $49,265
  • Information Technology: $60,648
  • Finance: $72,031
  • Engineering: $83,414
  • Management: $94,796
  • Sales: $106,179
  • Marketing: $117,562
  • Legal: $128,945
  • Architecture: $140,327
  • Science: $151,710

View jobs in Rapid City, SD

What are the best paying jobs in Rapid City, SD?

Job seekers in Rapid City, SD, have several high-paying career options. Traveling nurses lead the way with an average salary of $125,323. Counselors and intensive care unit registered nurses also earn strong salaries, with averages of $115,602 and $108,911, respectively. These roles offer competitive pay and the chance to make a significant impact in the community. Other top-paying jobs include respiratory therapists, radiologic technologists, and dental hygienists, all earning over $80,000 annually. These positions require specialized skills and training, but they provide excellent compensation and job stability. Job seekers with the right qualifications can find rewarding careers in Rapid City.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Rapid City, SD, highlighting Traveling Nurse with the highest at $125,323 and Regional Manager with the lowest at $83,530.
  1. Traveling Nurse
    Average Salary: $125,323
    Traveling nurses work in various healthcare settings, providing essential care. They often find opportunities with local hospitals and clinics. This role offers flexibility and the chance to explore different areas.
    Find Traveling Nurse jobs in Rapid City, SD


  2. Counselor
    Average Salary: $115,602
    Counselors help individuals navigate personal challenges. They work in schools, community centers, and private practices. This role requires strong communication and empathy skills.
    Find Counselor jobs in Rapid City, SD


  3. Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $108,911
    ICU nurses care for critically ill patients. They work in hospitals and medical centers. This role demands quick thinking and the ability to handle high-pressure situations.
    Find Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse jobs in Rapid City, SD


  4. Respiratory Therapist
    Average Salary: $98,306
    Respiratory therapists treat patients with breathing issues. They work in hospitals and clinics. This role involves using specialized equipment to help patients breathe.
    Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Rapid City, SD


  5. Radiologic Technologist
    Average Salary: $89,703
    Radiologic technologists operate imaging equipment. They work in hospitals and diagnostic centers. This role requires attention to detail and the ability to follow safety protocols.
    Find Radiologic Technologist jobs in Rapid City, SD


  6. Dental Hygienist
    Average Salary: $88,390
    Dental hygienists clean teeth and educate patients on dental care. They work in dental offices. This role involves using specialized tools and maintaining patient records.
    Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Rapid City, SD


  7. Occupational Therapist
    Average Salary: $87,646
    Occupational therapists help patients regain skills. They work in hospitals and rehabilitation centers. This role requires creativity and patience to help patients improve their daily activities.
    Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Rapid City, SD


  8. Technical Project Lead
    Average Salary: $87,524
    Technical project leads manage IT projects. They work in tech companies and consulting firms. This role involves coordinating teams and ensuring projects meet deadlines.
    Find Technical Project Lead jobs in Rapid City, SD


  9. Speech Language Pathologist
    Average Salary: $86,301
    Speech language pathologists treat communication disorders. They work in schools and clinics. This role requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to develop treatment plans.
    Find Speech Language Pathologist jobs in Rapid City, SD


  10. Regional Manager
    Average Salary: $83,530
    Regional managers oversee operations in a specific area. They work for various companies. This role involves managing teams and ensuring business goals are met.
    Find Regional Manager jobs in Rapid City, SD

What are the best paying jobs in Rapid City, SD without a degree?

Job seekers in Rapid City, SD, have several high-paying options that do not require a college degree. Drain cleaners, concrete finishers, and loader operators lead the list with average salaries above $40,000. These positions offer good pay and the chance to gain valuable skills in a short time. Concrete laborers, restaurant managers, and landscapers also provide competitive wages. These jobs allow individuals to earn a solid income while developing important work experience. Many of these roles offer opportunities for advancement and higher earnings with experience.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Rapid City, SD without a degree, highlighting Drain Cleaner with the highest at $54,412 and Kitchen Team Member with the lowest at $32,889.
  1. Drain Cleaner
    Average Salary: $54,412
    This role involves clearing blockages in pipes and drains. Workers use tools to remove debris and ensure smooth flow. Companies like local plumbing services hire for this job.
    Find Drain Cleaner jobs in Rapid City, SD


  2. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $53,121
    Concrete finishers prepare and smooth concrete for construction. They use tools to shape and level the concrete. Construction firms in the area often need these workers.
    Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Rapid City, SD


  3. Loader Operator
    Average Salary: $42,397
    Loader operators move materials around construction sites. They use machinery to lift and transport heavy items. Construction companies hire for this role.
    Find Loader Operator jobs in Rapid City, SD


  4. Concrete Laborer
    Average Salary: $41,024
    Concrete laborers assist in pouring and finishing concrete. They help mix concrete and prepare the site. Local construction crews often need these workers.
    Find Concrete Laborer jobs in Rapid City, SD


  5. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $40,988
    Restaurant managers oversee daily operations. They handle staff, customer service, and inventory. Local eateries hire for this position.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Rapid City, SD


  6. Landscaper
    Average Salary: $36,331
    Landscapers maintain outdoor spaces. They plant, prune, and care for lawns and gardens. Landscaping companies in the area hire for this job.
    Find Landscaper jobs in Rapid City, SD


  7. Floor Tech
    Average Salary: $36,117
    Floor technicians clean and maintain floors. They use machines to sweep and polish surfaces. Retail stores and offices hire for this role.
    Find Floor Tech jobs in Rapid City, SD


  8. Groundskeeper
    Average Salary: $33,364
    Groundskeepers maintain outdoor areas. They mow lawns, trim trees, and keep the grounds tidy. Schools and parks hire for this job.
    Find Groundskeeper jobs in Rapid City, SD


  9. Laundry Technician
    Average Salary: $33,176
    Laundry technicians operate and maintain washing machines. They ensure the equipment runs smoothly. Hotels and laundromats hire for this role.
    Find Laundry Technician jobs in Rapid City, SD


  10. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $32,889
    Kitchen team members assist in food preparation. They help cook, clean, and serve food. Restaurants and cafes hire for this position.
    Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Rapid City, SD

Which companies offer the top salaries in Rapid City, SD?

Job seekers in Rapid City, SD, can find competitive salaries at several companies. Leading the pack, Synchrony offers the highest average salary at $153,519. Other top-paying companies include Nomad Health, Slate Healthcare, LLC, and OneStaff Medical, all offering salaries above $100,000. These companies provide attractive compensation packages, making them excellent choices for those seeking higher earnings.
Graph displaying company salaries in Rapid City, SD, highlighting Synchrony with the highest at $153,519 and COLAS with the lowest at $66,331.
  1. Synchrony
    Average Salary: $153,519
    Synchrony is a leading financial services company. It offers credit card and banking services. The company values innovation and customer service.


  2. Nomad Health
    Average Salary: $135,169
    Nomad Health is a healthcare staffing company. It connects healthcare professionals with job opportunities. Nomad Health focuses on flexibility and quality care.


  3. Slate Healthcare, LLC
    Average Salary: $131,264
    Slate Healthcare, LLC provides staffing solutions for healthcare facilities. It helps match healthcare workers with the right jobs. The company aims for excellence in patient care.


  4. OneStaff Medical
    Average Salary: $119,733
    OneStaff Medical is a staffing agency for healthcare professionals. It offers travel and local job opportunities. The company values teamwork and professional development.


  5. FUSION Medical Staffing
    Average Salary: $104,578
    FUSION Medical Staffing connects healthcare providers with job opportunities. It focuses on matching skills with the right positions. The company emphasizes quality and care.


  6. Black Hills Corporation
    Average Salary: $102,780
    Black Hills Corporation is an energy and utility company. It provides electricity, natural gas, and water services. The company values sustainability and community involvement.


  7. Vibra Healthcare
    Average Salary: $76,270
    Vibra Healthcare offers post-acute care services. It includes rehabilitation and long-term care. The company focuses on patient care and recovery.


  8. RCS Construction, Inc.
    Average Salary: $68,266
    RCS Construction, Inc. is a construction company. It works on various projects including commercial and residential buildings. The company values quality and reliability.


  9. Brink Constructors, Inc.
    Average Salary: $66,336
    Brink Constructors, Inc. provides construction services. It works on infrastructure projects. The company focuses on safety and efficiency.


  10. COLAS
    Average Salary: $66,331
    COLAS is a construction company. It specializes in road and infrastructure projects. The company values innovation and teamwork.

How does the cost of living in Rapid City, SD compare to the national average?

Rapid City, SD, offers a cost of living that is slightly below the nationwide average. The overall cost of living index for Rapid City stands at 93, which is 7% lower than the national average of 100. This lower cost of living makes Rapid City an attractive option for job seekers looking to manage their expenses effectively while maintaining a reasonable standard of living.
Cost of living comparison graph for Rapid City, SD vs. Nationwide: housing 8% lower, groceries 6% lower, utilities 2% lower, transportation 10% lower, healthcare 5% lower, miscellaneous 7% lower.

Rapid City, South Dakota, offers a cost of living that is slightly below the nationwide average. The cost of living index for Rapid City stands at 93, which is 7% lower than the national average of 100. This means that, on average, residents in Rapid City can expect to pay less for a variety of goods and services compared to the rest of the country. Housing costs in Rapid City are 8% below the national average, with an index of 92. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to save on housing expenses.


In addition to housing, other categories such as groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous items also reflect lower costs. Groceries have a cost of living index of 94, which is 6% below the national average. Utilities, at 98, are only 2% above the national average, making them relatively affordable. Transportation costs are 10% lower, with an index of 90, and healthcare costs are 5% lower at 95. Miscellaneous expenses also show a slight decrease, with an index of 93, which is 7% below the national average. Overall, Rapid City provides a cost-effective living environment for those looking to manage their expenses efficiently.

There are 1,859 job openings in Rapid City, SD, today!

Take a deeper dive into the job market in Rapid City, SD

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City
Overview
Rapid City, SD
1,859 Job Openings