Pierre vs Rapid City: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Pierre, SD and Rapid City, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Pierre, SD | Rapid City, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $56,320 | $60,063▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $27.07 | $28.88▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $42,691 | $48,470▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $53,835▲ | $48,470 |
| 75th Percentile | $70,607▲ | $60,204 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $87,295▲ | $60,911 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 530▲ |
Verdict
Rapid City, SD offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Pierre.
The salary gap between Pierre and Rapid City is $3,743 (6.65%). Rapid City's median is -7.02% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Pierre spans $44,604,Rapid City spans $12,441. Pierre has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Rapid City ($67,365 effective) pays 11.00% more than Pierre ($60,690 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Pierre if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($87,295)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Rapid City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($60,063/year)
- ✓Larger job market (530 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,365)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Pierre grew 23.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 34.5% growth in Rapid City over the same period.
Pierre, SD
$45,337 (2024) → $55,773 (2025)
Rapid City, SD
$44,210 (2019) → $59,480 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pierre, SD
Rapid City, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov