Skip to content
AffordMap
Arts & Media · South Dakota

How to Become a Graphic Designers in South Dakota

Graphic Designers in South Dakota earn a median salary of $43,950/year, which is 28% below the national average. South Dakota has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a graphic designers takes home approximately $1,701/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$44K
Median salary in South Dakota
-28%
vs. national average
None
State income tax
470
Employed in South Dakota

What a graphic designers can afford in South Dakota

Gross annual salary$43,950
Est. monthly take-home (no state tax)$3,113/mo
Median 2BR rent (South Dakota)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home45.4% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$43,950/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,701/mo

Becoming a graphic designers in South Dakota

1

Meet education requirements

Graphic Designers positions in South Dakota typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across South Dakota. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many graphic designers 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 graphic designerss. 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 470 graphic designers. The highest concentrations are in Sioux Falls and Rapid City.

Graphic Designers salary by metro area in South Dakota

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Sioux Falls$47K$22.73/hr210
Rapid City$45K$21.79/hr80

Graphic Designers salary range in South Dakota

10th percentile (entry)
$33K
25th percentile
$36K
Median (50th)
$44K
75th percentile
$51K
90th percentile (senior)
$60K
View jobs for Graphic Designers
Currently hiring in South Dakota
View →
More openings for Graphic Designers
Currently hiring in South Dakota
View →
Build creative skills online
Design, UX, branding, and portfolio-building courses
View →
Full graphic designers salary breakdown in South Dakota
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in South Dakota
No state income tax!
Calculate →
Compare South Dakota cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Graphic Designers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a graphic designers make in South Dakota?

The median graphic designers salary in South Dakota is $43,950 per year ($21.13/hr). This is 28% below the national median of $61,300. Salaries range from $33,420 to $59,540.

What are the requirements to become a graphic designers in South Dakota?

Graphic Designers positions in South Dakota typically require Bachelor's degree. 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 graphic designers afford to live in South Dakota?

At the median salary of $43,950, a graphic designers in South Dakota would take home approximately $3,113/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 45.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for graphic designers in South Dakota?

The highest paying metro areas for graphic designers in South Dakota are Sioux Falls ($47,270), Rapid City ($45,330). 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 graphic designers?

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