Back to demand map

Nursing jobs in South Dakota 2026

Vacancies, salaries, EB-3 demand and licensing — verified against BLS OEWS 2025 + HRSA NCHWA 2026.

RN Shortage
2,100
Moderate 7.2%
Median Annual Salary
$77,140
$37.09/hr
COL-Adjusted
$76,433
COL index: 90
Compact State?
Yes
NLC multistate eligible

Key insight

In South Dakota, there is a shortage of 2,100 registered nurses as of 2026 — 7.2% of the state's nursing workforce demand. Median RN salary is $77,140 per year. After cost of living adjustment, purchasing power equals $76,433 in national terms. Moderate EB-3 activity in this state.

Top hiring cities

  • • Sioux Falls
  • • Rapid City
  • • Aberdeen

State nursing board

South Dakota Board of Nursing
Endorsement fee: $100 · NCLEX attempts allowed: 8/year
Licensing portal