College Towns in South Dakota: Student Housing, Cost of Living, and Campus Life
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Table of Content
- Overview of Universities in South Dakota
- Best College Towns in South Dakota
- 1. Brookings
- South Dakota State University
- 2. Vermillion
- University of South Dakota
- 3. Spearfish
- Black Hills State University
- 4. Madison
- Dakota State University
- 5. Mitchell
- Dakota Wesleyan University
- How do scholarships help Students study in South Dakota?
Learning and living in a college town is one of the most important decisions a student makes in their lifetime. If one is looking for the best college towns in a state with all the necessary amenities and opportunities, college towns in South Dakota are among the most preferred among students. The best college towns in South Dakota include Brookings, Vermillion, Spearfish, Madison, and Mitchell. These college towns offer the best academic opportunities, better housing options, and an affordable living experience. This guide will help students explore all the required information for living and spending their student lives in South Dakota.
South Dakota is one of the historic states in the United States. It is also known as the “Mount Rushmore State” as it is home to the famous Mount Rushmore National Memorial. The state's cost of living is generally lower than the U.S. average, benefiting students who live in South Dakota and spend an affordable amount. The college towns in the state have various outdoor activities and visiting spots for students. Students can enjoy hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and many other activities. Amber plays a crucial role in helping students find affordable housing options near the universities or the college towns. Students are offered a combination of affordable living, strong academic institutions, and access to abundant outdoor recreation. Students spend approximately $1,300–$2,200 monthly in South Dakota.
- Average Monthly Cost of Living (excluding rent): $800 - $1,200/month
- Average Rent: $450 - $1,300/month
- Utilities: $120–$220/month
- Internet: $50–$90/month
- Public Transportation: $30–$70/month
- Groceries: $250–$450/month
Overview of Universities in South Dakota
| Town | Major University | Ranking of University |
|---|---|---|
| Brookings | South Dakota State University | #257 National Universities (U.S. News) |
| Vermillion | University of South Dakota | #283 National Universities (U.S. News) |
| Spearfish | Black Hills State University | Regional Universities Midwest #119–131 |
| Madison | Dakota State University | Regional Colleges Midwest #21 |
| Mitchell | Dakota Wesleyan University | Regional Colleges Midwest #33 |
Best College Towns in South Dakota
1. Brookings
- Safety Index Score: 78/100
- Walkability Score: 52/100
- Average Rent: $800–$1,150/month
- Average Cost of Living (excluding rent/fees): $900–$1,150/month
Brookings, the college town in South Dakota, is considered one of the most populous student towns among others. The town offers an academic vibe that attracts students from different corners of the world. South Dakota State University is situated in Brookings, which admits 13000 or more students every year. Brookings offers affordable housing and other facilities for students with all the required amenities near the housing facilities. Students can willingly access the libraries, Hilton M. Briggs Library (SDSU) and Brookings Public Library for their academic research and guidance. The famous Walmart Supercenter is available for grocery shopping. Students in Brookings can enjoy their life via various events, which also allow them to learn the culture and heritage of the area. The famous events include Hobo Day, Summer Arts Festival, and Downtown at Sundown, which are most enjoyable in this region.
South Dakota State University
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 1881 |
| Annual Enrollment | Approximately 12,000–13,000 students |
| International Enrollments | Approximately 600–800 international students |
| Tuition Fees | Approximately $15,837 per year (tuition and fees) |
| Subjects | Agriculture, Engineering, Nursing, Pharmacy, Business, Computer Science, Data Science, Health Sciences, Education, Arts & Sciences, Natural Resources, and Veterinary & Biomedical Sciences |
2. Vermillion
- Safety Index Score: 80/100
- Walkability Score: 55/100
- Average Rent: $700–$1,050/month
- Average Cost of Living (excluding rent/fees): $850–$1,100/month
The college town of Vermillion is recognized for its attractive student community and student-friendly neighborhood. The town is home to the University of South Dakota, which enrolls more than 10,000 students annually. Vermillion offers affordable housing options, a low cost of living, and convenient access to essential amenities. Students can access academic resources through the Vermillion Public Library. Students can visit different spots for their recreation and escape from their daily academic life. Places like Downtown Vermillion, Prentis Park, the National Music Museum, and local cafés and restaurants are famous among students. Throughout the year, students enjoy local events including the South Dakota Shakespeare Festival, Ribs, Rods and Rock 'n Roll Festival, and various university-sponsored activities that create a lively college-town atmosphere.
University of South Dakota
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 1862 |
| Annual Enrollment | Approximately 9,800–10,000 students |
| International Enrollments | Approximately 500–700 international students |
| Tuition Fees | Approximately $13,000–$14,500 per year |
| Subjects | Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Business Administration, Economics, Computer Science, Cyber Security, Data Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Nursing, Public Health, Medicine, Psychology, Education, Political Science, Criminal Justice, English, History, Music, Fine Arts, Communication Studies, Social Work, Law, and Engineering-related programs |
3. Spearfish
- Safety Index Score: 82/100
- Walkability Score: 48/100
- Average Rent: $850–$1,250/month
- Average Cost of Living (excluding rent/fees): $900–$1,200/month
The Spearfish college town in South Dakota combines academic opportunities with access to the scenic Black Hills region. The town is home to Black Hills State University, which enrolls approximately 3,600 students each year. The town of Spearfish offers affordable living options with a variety of room types and top-quality amenities. Students can utilize the E.Y. Berry Library Learning Center and the Spearfish Public Library for academic support and research. Major grocery stores include Walmart Supercenter, Safeway, and Lynn's Dakotamart. Students also enjoy popular outdoor activities such as Spearfish Canyon, Roughlock Falls, hiking trails, mountain biking, and fishing. Students feel safe and calm in this college town as it offers a comfortable environment and a friendly neighborhood.
Black Hills State University
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 1883 |
| Annual Enrollment | Approximately 3,300–3,600 students |
| International Enrollments | Approximately 80–150 international students |
| Tuition Fees | Approximately $11,500–$13,500 per year |
| Subjects | Accounting, Business Administration, Marketing, Management, Economics, Computer Science, Information Technology, Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, History, English, Education, Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Exercise Science, Outdoor Education, Mass Communication, Art, Music, Theatre, and Tourism & Hospitality Management |
4. Madison
- Safety Index Score: 84/100
- Walkability Score: 50/100
- Average Rent: $700–$1,000/month
- Average Cost of Living (excluding rent/fees): $850–$1,100/month
Madison is a student-focused college town known for its affordable living and close-knit community atmosphere. The town is home to Dakota State University, which enrolls approximately 3,500 students each year and is nationally recognized for cybersecurity and technology programs. The Sioux Falls Regional Airport is the nearest to the college town. Students have access to affordable housing near campus and essential amenities throughout the town. Academic support is available through the Karl E. Mundt Library and the Madison Public Library. Students enjoy local events like Madison Community Festivals.
Dakota State University
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 1881 |
| Annual Enrollment | Approximately 3,200–3,500 students |
| International Enrollments | Approximately 150–300 international students |
| Tuition Fees | Approximately $12,000–$13,500 per year |
| Subjects | Cyber Security, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Information Systems, Information Technology, Network and Security Administration, Digital Arts and Design, Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Management, Mathematics, Biology, English, Education, Health Information Administration, Exercise Science, and General Studies |
5. Mitchell
- Safety Index Score: 79/100
- Walkability Score: 46/100
- Average Rent: $750–$1,100/month
- Average Cost of Living (excluding rent/fees): $850–$1,150/month
Mitchell is a welcoming college town that offers a balance of academic opportunities and small-town living. The town is home to Dakota Wesleyan University, which enrolls approximately 1100 students annually. Students can enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation in Mitchell, such as viewing Lake Mitchell, exploring nature in Hitchcock Park, hiking, and using the recreational trails. Students benefit from affordable housing, convenient transportation, and a supportive community environment. Mitchell is best known for the Corn Palace and hosts annual events, including the Corn Palace Festival, community fairs, and cultural celebrations, that provide students with memorable experiences throughout the year.
Dakota Wesleyan University
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 1885 |
| Annual Enrollment | Approximately 900–1,100 students |
| International Enrollments | Approximately 80–150 international students |
| Tuition Fees | Approximately $31,000–$33,000 per year |
| Subjects | Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, Management, Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Nursing, Exercise Science, Psychology, Criminal Justice, Education, English, History, Political Science, Communication Studies, Music, Religious Studies, Social Sciences, Human Services, and Pre-Professional Programs (Pre-Medicine, Pre-Law, Pre-Dentistry, and Pre-Physical Therapy) |
How do scholarships help Students study in South Dakota?
Living in an international destination for academics is a great deal of investment, thus burdening students and their families with a lot of pressure. Here comes an essential part for students, which is scholarships. Students can take advantage of the scholarships provided by the University and other facilities. This can help them live a better life and get a good-quality education.
1. South Dakota State University
- Jackrabbit Guarantee: Up to Full Tuition & Fees
- Freshman Academic Scholarships: $4,000–$8,000 per year
- International Excellence Scholarship: Up to $4,000 per year
2. University of South Dakota
- Presidential Scholarship: Up to $6,000 per year
- Excellence Scholarship: $2,000–$5,000 per year
- International Student Scholarship: $1,000–$4,000 per year
3. Black Hills State University
- International Student Scholarship: $1,000–$3,500 per year
- Yellow Jacket Scholarship: $1,000–$4,000 per year
- Departmental Scholarships: $500–$3,000 per year
4. Dakota State University
- DSU Merit Scholarship: $2,000–$6,000 per year
- International Student Scholarship: $1,000–$4,000 per year
- Transfer Scholarships: $1,500–$4,000 per year
5. Dakota Wesleyan University
- Trustee Scholarship: $12,000–$18,000 per year
- International Student Scholarship: $5,000–$15,000 per year
- United Methodist Scholarship: $1,000–$3,000 per year
Students willing to live in these college towns in South Dakota are always welcomed by the friendly community and neighborhoods. Students looking for housing can explore amber student housing options near major universities. Affordable housing, smaller class sizes, and easy access to university facilities make South Dakota an attractive destination for both domestic and international students. Overall, South Dakota's college towns provide a balanced lifestyle and a calm and student-friendly environment for individuals so that they feel safe and enjoy their stay for their academic career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do students need a car in South Dakota college towns?
Not always. Many students can walk, bike, or use local transit services near campus. Students can also walk through the college towns, as the walkability of all the towns is very good.
Are part-time job opportunities available for students?
Yes. Students can find part-time work in retail stores, restaurants, libraries, university departments, healthcare facilities, and local businesses. This might provide students with a better and more career-oriented perspective on their lives.
Is internet access reliable in South Dakota college towns?
Yes. Universities and most student housing communities provide high-speed internet, and towns generally have reliable broadband services.
What is the weather like in South Dakota during the academic year?
Students experience all four seasons, including warm summers, colorful autumns, cold winters with snowfall, and mild springs.
Are furnished student apartments available in South Dakota?
Yes. Many private student housing providers and apartment communities offer furnished accommodation options.