A+
8%
Overall NAT. AVG.
2%
Groceries NAT. AVG.
19%
Housing NAT. AVG.
Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.
The cost of living index is based on a national average of 100. For example, if the cost of living score is 90, then the estimated cost of living is 10% lower than the national average. If the score is 110, then the estimated cost of living is 10% higher than average. The overall index is calculated using weighted estimates across major everyday expense categories, including housing (30%), groceries (16%), transportation (12%), healthcare (10%), utilities (8%), lifestyle and entertainment (8%), household expenses (8%), and education and childcare (8%). All values are AI-assisted city-level estimates designed for directional comparisons.
Index Mitchell South Dakota National
Cost of living9292100
Groceries9899100
Health care9597100
Housing8177100
Transportation9396100
Utilities104103100
Lifestyle & Entertainment9394100
Household Items9596100
Education & Childcare9898100
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An Overview of Cost of Living in Mitchell, SD

Getting a feel for the cost of living in Mitchell is essential for anyone planning to relocate, as it empowers them to make informed financial decisions, secure a comfortable lifestyle and maintain financial stability in their new environment. The cost of living in Mitchell is 92, which is 8% lower than the national average. Relocating individuals may need to adjust their savings and investment strategies based on the cost of living in the new location. It influences decisions about retirement planning, investments and financial goals.

The cost of living in Mitchell is about average when compared to all other cities across the nation. You can expect that everyday items like food, household expenses and utility bills will be no more expensive than any other average city. Residents can anticipate living expenses that remain in line with the national average, ensuring a manageable financial burden, making it an attractive choice for those seeking affordability without the constraints of higher everyday expenditures.

Is Mitchell Affordable?

Is Mitchell an affordable place to live? That's a valid question to ask when you're thinking about moving to a new city. After all, how much it costs to live somewhere can be a huge factor in your decision. Affordability can be broken down into 3 common categories. The cost of living index (we talked about it earlier), housing expenses and income levels all play a big role in figuring out if a place is affordable. For instance, in Mitchell, the median home price is 16.7% lower than what most folks pay across the country, and monthly rent prices are 25.1% lower than the usual rates. Income levels in Mitchell come in at $66,736, which is 17.9% lower than the national average.

What Factors can Influence the Cost of Living in Mitchell?

Utilities: Similar to the prices of any goods or services, utility expenses can fluctuate widely, contingent on variables such as climate, available energy sources, geographical location and state regulations. Costs associated with electricity, water, heating, and waste disposal can differ in magnitude, depending on the specific city or state. In Mitchell, the utilities index registers at 4% higher than the national average.

Transportation: In cities with limited or no public transportation, residents may find it necessary to own and maintain vehicles, thereby elevating the cost of living. Monthly expenditures include fuel, insurance, routine maintenance and potential lease or financing commitments. In Mitchell, the transportation index stands at 6.9% lower than the national average.

Taxes: Locations with elevated tax rates, encompassing both sales and income taxes, can be a factor in driving up the cost of living. When you're paying more in taxes for everyday household expenses, it naturally translates into higher expenses. Similarly, a higher income tax rate can also contribute to an overall higher cost of living. In Mitchell, the standard sales tax rate starts at 4.5%, and the income tax rates commence at 0%.

Where is the Data From?

The Mitchell cost of living data displayed above uses a U.S. average baseline of 100 to provide a practical way to compare living expenses across cities. Housing estimates incorporate U.S. Census home price and rental data, while all other values are generated using AI-assisted models based on everyday expense expectations, regional pricing trends, climate, transportation patterns, and local economic conditions. These values are designed for directional city-to-city comparisons.

Cost Of Living Quick Facts

  • The cost of living in Mitchell is equal to the South Dakota average
  • The cost of living in Mitchell is 8% lower than the national average
  • Mitchell housing is 19% lower than the national average
  • South Dakota general sales tax is 12% lower than the national average
  • South Dakota state income tax is 100% lower than the national average

Most Affordable Places to Live in and Around Mitchell

See all the best places to live around Mitchell

Compare Mitchell, SD Cost of Living

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      Median Income & Debt-To-Income Ratio

      Median Income Per Year Per Month Max Budget (28% DTI) Max Budget (36% DTI)
      Owners$91,137$7,595$2,126$2,734
      Renters$44,774$3,731$1,045$1,343
      The percent of monthly income spent on housing can be a good indicator of the affordability of housing in Mitchell, SD, as well as the overall cost of living. As a general rule of thumb, the debt-to-income ratio (DTI) for homeowners or renters should be not more than 28 percent of gross income to be spent on housing related costs and not more than 36 percent of income on all expenses, including debts. The median income for Mitchell homeowners, is $91,137. This would allow for a maximum of $2,126 per month to be spent on housing costs. For renters, the median monthly income is $44,774 which would result in a maximum of $1,045 to be spent on rental costs.

      South Dakota Sales Tax

      State General Sales Tax With Max Surtax
      South Dakota 4.5% 6%

      South Dakota Income Tax

      State Income Tax (Low) Income Tax (High)
      South Dakota 0% 0%

      Nearby cities with low cost of living

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Loomis, SD0963.5%
      Fulton, SD1428119.0%
      Mount Vernon, SD5148415.9%
      Ethan, SD3418614.1%
      Alexandria, SD7868712.6%
      Mitchell, SD16,163928.2%

      Cities with similar population

      City Population Cost of Living Index National Avg.
      Warsaw, IN16,160919.1%
      Clarksburg, WV16,1668217.7%
      Los Lunas, NM16,172982.2%
      Mebane, NC16,1521011.1%
      La Palma, CA16,17517777.2%
      Mitchell, SD16,163928.2%
      Date & Last Updated: These cost of living estimates reflect 2026 modeled data using U.S. Census housing inputs and AI-assisted city-level pricing models.