Rapid City is the second-largest city in South Dakota (MSA 148,933)

Rapid City’s robust local economy and abundant natural resources have proven attractive to a diverse group of industries. Taking advantage of extensive fossil and renewable energy resources, energy giant Black Hills Corporation chose Rapid City as its headquarters. The city’s central location makes it a great fit for other corporate and regional headquarters and an appealing option for transportation companies. Dominant players in the area include Monument Health and Ellsworth Air Force Base. Other strong economic sectors ripe with opportunities include engineering, business services, banking and finance, insurance, IT, research and development, and manufacturing.

Low startup costs and a lack of corporate and individual income taxes give South Dakota a very business-friendly climate. Business owners benefit from no corporate income tax, no personal income tax, no personal property tax, and no business inventory tax. South Dakota gives businesses a competitive edge by helping them keep the money they earn. The average statewide commute in South Dakota is a mere 13.8 minutes. This means less stress and more time for leisure activities.

Outdoor enthusiasts have an abundance of activities from which to choose year-round, including world-class mountain biking, hiking, fishing, boating, golfing, rock climbing, skiing, and snowmobiling. Cultural opportunities abound; the area hosts top-quality entertainment from around the country, including musicians, comedians, traveling theater groups, international dance troupes, rodeos, powwow competitions, and a world-renowned motorcycle rally.

Rapid City is connected to the 1.2 million acres of breathtaking scenery of the Black Hills National Forest. Get lost on the 700 miles of motorized trails and nearly 500 miles of hiking trails. Over 25 breweries and wineries are scattered through the Hills. Mountain lakes give fishermen and beach-lovers a place to soak up the sun. Five million visitors and tourists flock to Rapid City & the Black Hills every year to see top attractions like Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial, Badlands National Park, Terry Peak Ski Area, Dahl Arts Center, Bear Country, and Reptile Gardens. There’s something for everybody!