City Profile
Aberdeen, South Dakota
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Aberdeen, South Dakota, often referred to as the 'Hub City,' is a vibrant community in the northeastern part of the state, known for its strong sense of connection and regional importance. Established in 1879, the city's growth was historically tied to the railroad, a legacy that continues to shape its identity as a central point for commerce and services. Aberdeen offers a blend of urban amenities and access to natural beauty, attracting residents seeking a balanced lifestyle. It is home to Northern State University, which contributes significantly to the city's cultural and educational landscape, providing a lively atmosphere with various events and arts programming throughout the year.
People are drawn to Aberdeen for its welcoming community, diverse economic opportunities, and relatively affordable cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas. The city's strategic location in the James River valley provides recreational opportunities, while its downtown area offers unique dining and shopping experiences. Aberdeen's commitment to maintaining green spaces and parks ensures residents have ample room for outdoor activities, fostering a high quality of life for its approximately 28,376 residents.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Aberdeen, South Dakota, is notably more affordable than the national average, making it an attractive option for individuals and families. Overall, Aberdeen is estimated to be 18% less expensive than the national average, with housing costs being a significant factor in this affordability. While food expenses are slightly below average, energy, transportation, and healthcare costs also contribute to the city's lower overall expenditure.
For a single person, estimated monthly expenses are around $1,942, while a family of four might expect costs of approximately $4,441 per month, positioning Aberdeen among America's less expensive cities. The state of South Dakota itself boasts a lower cost of living than the national average, and Aberdeen generally aligns with or is even more affordable than the state average in many categories.
Income
Salary Insights
Aberdeen's economy is characterized by its strong and growing business sectors, serving as a regional hub for trade and employment. The community has a deep connection to the agriculture economy, with value-added agriculture and food processing being significant drivers. Other major industries contributing to the city's economic stability include healthcare, manufacturing, and financial services, with a notable presence of public employment and renewable energy companies.
The city boasts a high level of industry diversity, ranking among the top micropolitan areas in the USA for economic stability. The unemployment rate in Aberdeen was remarkably low at 1.7% in 2026, significantly below the national average, indicating a robust job market. While specific city-level job growth rates are not readily available, the state of South Dakota saw employment rise by 1.3% in 2024, outpacing the national growth rate, suggesting a positive trend for Aberdeen's workforce.
The average salary in Aberdeen is $38,861 per year. You would need approximately $50,000 to live comfortably.
Employment
Top Industries
Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Getting around Aberdeen primarily relies on personal vehicles, as indicated by a high drivability score of 80 out of 100. The average one-way commute time for residents is notably short, at just 11 minutes, which is significantly lower than national averages. While the city has a 'Fairly Walkable' score of 39 and a 'Fairly Bikeable' score of 50, most errands still require a car.
Aberdeen does offer public transportation through its Ride Line Demand Response Public Transit service. This curb-to-curb bus service operates Monday through Friday, with a cost of $3 per ride, or $2 for seniors. However, public transit usage among workers is very low, with some data suggesting 0% of workers utilize it, highlighting a high car dependency within the city.
Target 100% of Users Relocating to Aberdeen!
Real Estate Agents, Movers, and Local Businesses: Claim this exclusive monthly advertising space today.
Claim Aberdeen Space →At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Drawbacks
Head to Head
Compare Aberdeen
Compare Aberdeen with any city
See how it stacks up on cost, income, and quality of life.
Start Comparing