Talk to a local advisor for free
Rapid City, South Dakota, is located in the eastern foothills of the Black Hills, the gateway to the iconic Mount Rushmore and the sweeping beauty of the South Dakota landscape. It’s a popular travel destination for people all over the world. In addition to Mount Rushmore, Rapid City has several other notable attractions, including the Reptile Garden indoor zoo, which hosts species from all over the world. With a population of about 75,258, Rapid City is the second-largest city in South Dakota and is home to some of the largest hospitals in the state, including the highly rated Black Hills Surgical Hospital.
South Dakota is one of the most tax-friendly states for retirees; it has no sales tax and no state income tax, which means Social Security payments and withdrawals from retirement accounts go untaxed. The state also offers property tax breaks. Rapid City seniors may seek accommodations in one of the area’s assisted living communities, where costs average about $4,300 per month.
Hundreds of thousands of American seniors utilize assisted living, a figure that is only growing. For these seniors, assisted living combines residential housing,assistance in daily activities, and some healthcare. These communities also strive to provide an atmosphere that is comfortable and engaging for their residents… Read More >
Rapid City has average assisted living fees of $4,300 per month, according to the Genworth Financial Cost of Care Survey 2020. That number matches the national average, although Rapid City’s costs come in at several hundred dollars more per month than the South Dakota average of $3,638. South Dakota has lower costs for assisted living than its neighboring states. North Dakota ($4,096), Iowa ($4,073), Nebraska ($4,188) and Wyoming ($4,175) all have higher average assisted living costs than South Dakota.
Rapid City’s monthly assisted living fees of $4,300 per month are higher than in most South Dakota cities. Only Aberdeen’s costs are higher, averaging $4,623. Sioux Falls, in the eastern part of the state, and Mobridge, near the North Dakota border, both have similar assisted living fees, at $3,488 and $3,470 respectively. Yankton, in the southwest tip of South Dakota, is also several hundred dollars less than Rapid City, at $3,750 per month.
The South Dakota Department of Social Services administers an assisted living waiver for seniors and those with qualifying disabilities. The Home and Community Based Services Statewide Transition Plan is intended to help seniors avoid moving into a nursing home and instead utilize home health care or move into assisted living.
Learn more about these programs and their eligibility requirements on our Assisted Living in South Dakota page.
| Contact | Description | |
| South Dakota Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program | (605) 773-5990 | Long-term care ombudsmen represent residents of assisted living and long-term care communities. These advocates investigate complaints made by residents or by residents’ families on behalf of their loved ones. Additional services include helping seniors find the right fit for long-term care and advocating for stronger regulations of these communities at the state and local levels. |
| South Dakota Office of Adult Services & Aging | (605) 773-3656 | This state department addresses the various needs of South Dakota seniors. Some programs are designed to help seniors retain their independence at home, including homemaker support and meal delivery. Representatives of the office help seniors find government financial assistance that they’re eligible for, including Social Security and health care benefits. This office also conducts health screenings such as blood pressure checks and provides education about medical issues of particular interest to seniors, such as diabetes, dementia and fall safety. |
| Pennington County Veterans Services Office | (605) 394-2266 | Rapid City military veterans and their surviving spouses may receive assistance applying for benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The center also offers counseling for PTSD or grief and loss. |
| Minneluzahan Senior Center | (605) 394-1887 | Minneluzahan Senior Center offers a diverse schedule of activities for area seniors. Members may play bridge or bingo or join hobby groups centered around pastimes such as gardening, crafts and woodworking. The center also has group fitness classes appropriate for the elderly. Monthly birthday celebrations and holiday parties are scheduled throughout the year. |
| Rapid Transit System | (605) 394-6631 | The Rapid Transit System is a fixed-route bus system serving the greater Rapid City area. It also provides curb-to-curb service, available by appointment, for seniors and others who qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Seniors may be eligible for reduced fares. |
| Dakota Plains Legal Services | (605) 342-7171 | Area attorneys offer free legal services to seniors and others that meet income thresholds. These lawyers cover civil cases and can offer advice regarding issues such as elder abuse, bankruptcy, divorce and drafting legal documents, including wills and power of attorney. |
The South Dakota Department of Health is responsible for licensing and regulating assisted living communities. Regulations cover the certifications and training for staff, resident care and the overall cleanliness and livability of the community. Visit our Assisted Living in South Dakota page to learn more about these laws and regulations.
