Moving to Rapid City: Everything You Need To Know

Rapid City is the second largest city in South Dakota and an excellent place to call home. Nestled in the western portion of the state just east of the stunning Black Hills, residents get to enjoy both the beauty of nature along with the amenities of a big city. This mid-size city offers plenty of dining, shopping, and sightseeing but still maintains that laid-back small-town feel. Keep reading for everything you need to know about life in Rapid City.

Rapid City Movers

Living in Rapid City

Rapid City is one of the best places to live in South Dakota. Located just an hour’s drive from five national parks and monuments, it is home to some incredible scenery and outdoor activities. Considered a gateway to Mt. Rushmore and many other nearby attractions, Rapid City also sees a lot of visitors throughout the year. This midwest gem is also filled with exciting amenities like taverns, bars, museums, shops, galleries, and so much more. Here residents enjoy year-round activities, a low cost of living, plenty of land, and safe communities. 

Cost of Living

Rapid City is a very affordable place to live, with housing costs about 9% below the national average. You will find spacious homes with 3-5 bedrooms for around $350,000 and located near great school districts. Additionally, most people own a car, and the annual cost of car ownership in Rapid City is among the lowest in the country. Less time in traffic also means less money spent on gas and car repairs. 

Weather in Rapid City

One of the best parts about living in Rapid City is the fact that residents get to enjoy all four seasons. Depending on the time of year, temperatures can range anywhere from sweltering to sub-zero cold. During the winter months, you can expect temperatures hovering around the mid 30’s, with about 5-15 inches of snow per month. Summers can get warm, with temperatures in the upper 80s to 100 at times. Spring and autumn are beautiful seasons in South Dakota, with colorful blooms and hills and mountains blanketed in autumn leaves. 

Beautiful Scenery

From gently rolling hills to steep mountains and winding rivers, Rapid City boasts one of the most beautiful landscapes in South Dakota. The Badlands are located just 75 miles east of Rapid City and include stunning rock formations and canyons. The Black Hills are located just to the west and feature beautiful forests and abundant wildlife. You are surrounded by incredible natural beauty and diverse wildlife, making Rapid City an outdoor lover’s ideal destination. 

Where to Live in Rapid City

One of the biggest decisions you will make when moving to Rapid City is choosing where to live. Fortunately, Rapid City is home to several beautiful and livable communities and suburbs. Some of the most popular neighborhoods include: 

  • Colonial Pine Hills
  • Ashland Heights
  • Highway 16
  • Sheridan Lake
  • Downtown

Attractions and Things to Do

Rapid City is packed with many exciting attractions and sees millions of tourists each year. The city and its surrounding areas are home to some of the country’s most popular attractions, including Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and a number of historical monuments. Locals also spend a great deal of time outdoors hunting, fishing, and camping. The Black Hills are excellent hunting grounds for whitetail deer, turkey, elk, bighorn sheep, and game birds. Fishing is popular in the many lakes, rivers, and streams in the area. 

Rapid City also has a bustling nightlife when the sun goes down. Downtown is full of everything from elegant restaurants to cocktail bars, breweries, and pubs. You can also find lively nightclubs and live music venues. The food scene is also diverse, with dishes inspired by Eastern European, Native American, Himalayan, Indian, and Tibetan influences. 

Ready to Move to Rapid City? Allied Van Lines Can Help!

Rapid City is an exciting city with a bustling downtown but still surrounded by nature. Residents love the friendly communities and small-town feel, as well as access to big-city amenities. If you are planning your move to Rapid City, let the professionals at Allied Van Lines help with your relocation! With over 95 years of experience in the moving industry, we know just how to plan and execute a seamless move. Call Allied today for more information about our moving services, and let us help you relocate with ease!

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