Skip to content
AffordMap
Healthcare Support · South Dakota

How to Become a Nursing Assistants in South Dakota

Nursing Assistants in South Dakota earn a median salary of $38,070/year, which is 4% below the national average. South Dakota has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a nursing assistants takes home approximately $1,307/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$38K
Median salary in South Dakota
-4%
vs. national average
None
State income tax
6,520
Employed in South Dakota

What a nursing assistants can afford in South Dakota

Gross annual salary$38,070
Est. monthly take-home (no state tax)$2,719/mo
Median 2BR rent (South Dakota)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home51.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$38,070/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,307/mo

Becoming a nursing assistants in South Dakota

1

Meet education requirements

Nursing Assistants positions in South Dakota typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across South Dakota. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many nursing assistants 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 nursing assistantss. 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 6,520 nursing assistants. The highest concentrations are in Sioux Falls and Rapid City.

Nursing Assistants salary by metro area in South Dakota

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Sioux Falls$38K$18.3/hr2,900
Rapid City$37K$17.91/hr910

Nursing Assistants salary range in South Dakota

10th percentile (entry)
$30K
25th percentile
$35K
Median (50th)
$38K
75th percentile
$41K
90th percentile (senior)
$45K
View jobs for Nursing Assistants
Currently hiring in South Dakota
View →
More openings for Nursing Assistants
Currently hiring in South Dakota
View →
Advance your nursing career
Online BSN and MSN programs — 45% off select certificates
View →
Full nursing assistants 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 →

Nursing Assistants careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a nursing assistants make in South Dakota?

The median nursing assistants salary in South Dakota is $38,070 per year ($18.3/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $39,530. Salaries range from $29,960 to $45,070.

What are the requirements to become a nursing assistants in South Dakota?

Nursing Assistants positions in South Dakota typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. 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 nursing assistants afford to live in South Dakota?

At the median salary of $38,070, a nursing assistants in South Dakota would take home approximately $2,719/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 51.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for nursing assistants in South Dakota?

The highest paying metro areas for nursing assistants in South Dakota are Sioux Falls ($38,070), Rapid City ($37,250). 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 nursing assistants?

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