10 Major South Dakota Industries to Consider if You’re Working in or Moving to the State
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If you’re thinking about moving to South Dakota, you’ll discover a state with a growing economy and various career opportunities. South Dakota major industries span agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and more, offering an array of job types. Whether you’re browsing homes for sale in Sioux Falls or apartments in Rapid City, the state’s industries provide a strong foundation for professional growth. Homebuyers and renters benefit from the combination of career potential and South Dakota’s affordable living. Read on to explore South Dakota’s top industries and why they might be the perfect fit for your next move.
South Dakota at a glance: Home prices, income, and employment
Top employers in South Dakota
Avera Health: 20,000 employees
Walmart: 5,884 employees
Monument Health: 5,100 employees
Ellsworth Air Force Base: 4,300 employees
Sanford Health: 4,000 employees
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10 major industries in South Dakota
1. Agriculture
Major Employers: POET (Sioux Falls), Agtegra Cooperative (Aberdeen), Valley Queen Cheese (Milbank)
Making up 13% of the state’s GDP, agriculture is the backbone of South Dakota’s economy, employing thousands across farming, ranching, and food production. POET offers roles in renewable energy, while Agtegra specializes in crop marketing and farm supply operations. Valley Queen Cheese provides opportunities in dairy processing and food manufacturing. South Dakota’s open landscapes and supportive agricultural community attract professionals interested in farming and sustainable practices. The state is ideal for individuals seeking work-life balance in rural and suburban settings.
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2. Tourism
Major Employers: Mount Rushmore National Memorial (Keystone), Crazy Horse Memorial (Custer), Deadwood Gaming Association (Deadwood)
Tourism thrives thanks to South Dakota’s iconic landmarks and natural beauty, offering positions in hospitality, marketing, and park management. The Crazy Horse Memorial employs cultural specialists, while Deadwood Gaming Association supports roles in casino operations and entertainment. The industry draws job seekers who value vibrant, dynamic work environments. Cities near attractions, like Rapid City and Custer, provide affordable housing options and access to stunning outdoor activities.
Major Employers: Trail King Industries (Mitchell), Rosenbauer America (Lyons), Daktronics (Brookings)
South Dakota’s manufacturing sector spans equipment production, technology, and specialized vehicles. Trail King offers roles in engineering and assembly, while Daktronics specializes in electronic displays. Rosenbauer America supports positions in custom fire apparatus manufacturing. Homebuyers and renters in cities like Mitchell and Brookings enjoy easy access to these employers and excellent quality of life.
Major Employers: Sanford Health (Sioux Falls), Avera Health (Sioux Falls), Monument Health (Rapid City)
The healthcare sector offers abundant opportunities, from nursing to administrative roles. Sanford Health and Avera Health are two of the state’s largest employers, providing comprehensive medical services. Monument Health also offers careers in patient care, research, and hospital management. South Dakota’s growing population and aging demographic ensure ongoing demand for healthcare professionals
Major Employers: South Dakota State University (Brookings), University of South Dakota (Vermillion), Black Hills State University (Spearfish)
South Dakota’s education sector includes higher education institutions and public school systems. South Dakota State University and Black Hills State University employ faculty, researchers, and support staff. The University of South Dakota also offers diverse opportunities in academics and administration. The state values education, creating a nurturing environment for students and educators alike.
Major Employers: First Premier Bank (Sioux Falls), Great Western Bank (Sioux Falls), Citi (locations in Sioux Falls)
Financial services are thriving in South Dakota, driven by banking, credit processing, and insurance industries. First Premier Bank and Citi offer positions in finance, technology, and customer service. The industry benefits from the state’s business-friendly tax policies, attracting major corporations. Professionals in this sector enjoy career stability and competitive salaries, with housing opportunities in Sioux Falls and the surrounding area.
Major Employers: Basin Electric Power Cooperative (locations in South Dakota), Black Hills Energy (Rapid City), Otter Tail Power Company (locations in South Dakota)
South Dakota’s energy sector includes renewable energy, traditional utilities, and infrastructure maintenance. In fact, 77% of the state’s electricity was generated from renewable resources. Black Hills Energy offers roles in energy distribution and sustainability initiatives. Basin Electric Power Cooperative provides opportunities in operations and engineering. The state’s focus on renewable resources attracts environmentally conscious professionals. Residents near major employers enjoy a balance of urban and rural living.
Major Employers: Scheels (locations in South Dakota), Menards (locations in South Dakota), Walmart (locations in South Dakota)
In addition to adding over $4 billion to the state’s GDP, the retail and trade industry supports a wide range of jobs, from management to customer service. Scheels and Menards provide roles in retail operations and distribution. Walmart is a major employer with opportunities across the state. South Dakota’s vibrant communities and shopping hubs ensure continued demand for retail professionals. Housing options near retail centers makes for a short work commute for homeowners and renters in this industry.
Major Employers: Sioux Falls Regional Airport (Sioux Falls), CHS Inc. (locations in South Dakota), FedEx (locations in South Dakota)
Transportation and logistics are vital to South Dakota’s economy, with jobs in shipping, aviation, and supply chain management. Sioux Falls Regional Airport offers roles in operations and customer service. CHS Inc. employs logistics and distribution specialists across its locations. The industry’s growth provides stability for workers and supports the state’s agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Residents benefit from a well-connected transportation network and thriving local economies.
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10. Technology and innovation
Major Employers: Raven Industries (Sioux Falls), SAB Biotherapeutics (location in Sioux Falls), RESPEC (Rapid City)
Technology is an emerging industry in South Dakota, with careers in research, development, and engineering. Over a fifth of the state’s employment is in science or technology-related fields. Raven Industries specializes in precision agriculture and autonomous solutions, while SAB Biotherapeutics focuses on biotech advancements. RESPEC provides engineering and data analysis roles. Cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City offer dynamic job markets and quality lifestyles.
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