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Production & Manufacturing · South Dakota

How to Become a Butchers and Meat Cutters in South Dakota

Butchers and Meat Cutters in South Dakota earn a median salary of $35,880/year, which is 8% below the national average. South Dakota has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a butchers and meat cutters takes home approximately $1,160/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$36K
Median salary in South Dakota
-8%
vs. national average
None
State income tax
620
Employed in South Dakota

What a butchers and meat cutters can afford in South Dakota

Gross annual salary$35,880
Est. monthly take-home (no state tax)$2,572/mo
Median 2BR rent (South Dakota)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home54.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$35,880/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,160/mo

Becoming a butchers and meat cutters in South Dakota

1

Meet education requirements

Butchers and Meat Cutters positions in South Dakota typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across South Dakota. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many butchers and meat cutters positions in South Dakota require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain South Dakota licensure or certification

South Dakota may require specific licensing or professional certification for butchers and meat cutterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the South Dakota Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in South Dakota

South Dakota employs 620 butchers and meat cutters. The highest concentrations are in Sioux Falls and Rapid City.

Butchers and Meat Cutters salary by metro area in South Dakota

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Sioux Falls$38K$18.09/hr130
Rapid City$37K$17.81/hr90

Butchers and Meat Cutters salary range in South Dakota

10th percentile (entry)
$33K
25th percentile
$34K
Median (50th)
$36K
75th percentile
$46K
90th percentile (senior)
$52K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a butchers and meat cutters make in South Dakota?

The median butchers and meat cutters salary in South Dakota is $35,880 per year ($17.25/hr). This is 8% below the national median of $38,960. Salaries range from $32,790 to $52,330.

What are the requirements to become a butchers and meat cutters in South Dakota?

Butchers and Meat Cutters positions in South Dakota typically require High school diploma or equivalent. South Dakota may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the South Dakota licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a butchers and meat cutters afford to live in South Dakota?

At the median salary of $35,880, a butchers and meat cutters in South Dakota would take home approximately $2,572/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 54.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for butchers and meat cutters in South Dakota?

The highest paying metro areas for butchers and meat cutters in South Dakota are Sioux Falls ($37,630), Rapid City ($37,040). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does South Dakota have state income tax for butchers and meat cutters?

No, South Dakota does not have a state income tax. This means butchers and meat cutters keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.