Crime Rates and Safety in South Dakota
South Dakota is a low-crime state overall. Sioux Falls and Rapid City account for most reported crime, while smaller communities see very little.
14 cities tracked. 2024 FBI Uniform Crime Report data.
Avg Violent Crime Rate
326per 100K (below national avg of 363.8)
Avg Property Crime Rate
2021per 100K (above national avg of 1,832.3)
All 14 Cities in South Dakota
| City | Grade |
|---|---|
| Sioux Falls | D- |
| Rapid City | D |
| Aberdeen | C |
| Brookings | C |
| Watertown | C |
| Yankton | C- |
| Mitchell | C+ |
| Huron | C- |
| Spearfish | C |
| Box Elder | D+ |
| Pierre | C |
| Vermillion | C |
| Brandon | D+ |
| Harrisburg | D+ |
Neighboring States
Frequently Asked Questions About South Dakota Safety
What is the safest city in South Dakota?
Mitchell, with a C+ grade and a crime rate of 196.9 per 1,000 residents. It ranks above 43% of all US cities.
How does South Dakota compare to the national average for crime?
South Dakota runs below the national average for violent crime, at 326 per 100K vs. the national 363.8. Property crime averages 2021 per 100K (national: 1,832.3).
Which city in South Dakota has the most crime?
Sioux Falls has the highest crime rate among tracked South Dakota cities, with a D- grade and 277 crimes per 1,000 residents.
How many cities are tracked in South Dakota?
14 cities with available FBI UCR crime data.
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