Safest Cities in South Dakota

Top 19 cities ranked by safest cities

Largest Cities Smallest Cities Most Dense Least Dense Highest Income Lowest Income Lowest Unemployment Highest Unemployment Lowest Poverty Highest Poverty Highest Home Value Most Affordable Highest Rent Lowest Rent Most Educated Youngest Cities Oldest Cities Safest Cities Highest Crime Warmest Cities Coldest Cities Rainiest Cities Driest Cities

All Countries · United States · South Dakota

Safest Cities — South Dakota

1 Brandon 68.3 per 1K

2 Tea 135.6 per 1K

3 Vermillion 193.9 per 1K

4 Spearfish 194.2 per 1K

5 Belle Fourche 196.4 per 1K

6 Sturgis 200.5 per 1K

7 Brookings 217.5 per 1K

8 Madison 224.9 per 1K

9 Rapid Valley 286.3 per 1K

10 Watertown 301.4 per 1K

11 Mitchell 375.0 per 1K

12 Box Elder 416.8 per 1K

13 Huron 419.1 per 1K

14 Harrisburg 442.2 per 1K

15 Pierre 463.7 per 1K

16 Sioux Falls 483.2 per 1K

17 Aberdeen 554.2 per 1K

18 Yankton 583.8 per 1K

19 Rapid City 707.3 per 1K

The safest cities in South Dakota have the lowest violent crime rates, making them attractive to families and individuals seeking secure communities. Brandon leads with just 68.3 violent crimes per 1,000 residents.

Low crime rates are associated with multiple factors including strong community bonds, well-funded police departments, economic stability, and high levels of education and employment. These cities often have active neighborhood watch programs and community policing initiatives.

Safety is consistently ranked as one of the top priorities for families choosing where to live. The cities on this list demonstrate that low crime and high quality of life often go hand in hand with strong economic conditions and community engagement.

Did You Know?

1. Brandon has just 68.3 violent crimes per 1,000 residents — well below the national average of about 4.0.
2. The safest cities tend to have strong economies, high education levels, and active community engagement programs.
3. Property crime rates in these cities are typically low as well, with most ranking below the national average across all crime categories.

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