Rapid City, SD Homes For Rent

Homes for Rent in Rapid City, SD: What You Need to Know

Rapid City, home to 77,503 people, is the second-most populous city in South Dakota, behind Sioux Falls. Located at the eastern slope of the Black Hills, it’s the gateway to Mount Rushmore and other tourist attractions in the region. 

Job Opportunities in Rapid City, SD

Rapid City is the seat of Pennington County in western South Dakota. The county and city’s economic base consists of agriculture, logging, mining, and tourism industries. Top employers in Rapid City include Monument Health, Walmart and Sam’s Club, VA System Black Hills Healthcare, Rapid City School District, South Dakota state government, and Ellsworth Air Force Base, just outside of the city. 

Things to Do in Rapid City, SD

Rapid City, 23 miles from Mount Rushmore National Memorial, is the perfect base for people visiting the national monument. The site features the Lincoln Borglum Museum, the Avenue of Flags, and hiking trails. Walk on the Presidential Trail (0.6 miles) for a great view of the 60-foot-high presidential portraits carved into the side of Mount Rushmore. The Black Hills National Forest, 35 miles from Rapid City, is another popular destination. It consists of 1.2 million acres of stunning terrain that includes trails, streams, lakes, caves, and mountains. 

Is it Expensive to Live in Rapid City, SD?

Rapid City is actually budget-friendly. Its cost of living rate and housing costs are 2.6% and 23.2% lower than the national average, respectively. The median gross rent is $837. Also, South Dakota doesn’t collect personal income tax. The state's 4.5% to 7.5% sales tax is one of the lowest in the country. However, food cost is 5.5% higher than the national average.

Has Rapid City, SD Experienced a Natural Disaster?

Yes. Rapid City is named after Rapid Creek, which flows through the city. On June 9, 1972, heavy rain caused disastrous flash flooding throughout Rapid City and the eastern foothills of the Black Hills. The massive flood destroyed homes, businesses, and bridges, and resulted in 238 fatalities. Barring any storms, the city gets 18 inches of rain per year versus the U.S. average of 38 inches. It receives about 38 inches of snow annually versus the national average of 28 inches.

Where Can You Go Shopping in Rapid City, SD?

Rushmore Mall, with more than 100 stores, helped position Rapid City as the region’s premier shopping destination when it opened in 1978. The indoor mall features national retailers, restaurants, and a food court. Looking for something special? Head over to downtown Rapid City where you’ll find locally-owned shops that carry unique Native American art pieces and Black Hills jewelry. There are 34 stores and 26 restaurants downtown.