As if you really needed another reason to either move to and/or love South Dakota, here it is: We have received yet another national recognition, this time having two of our cities named as some of the best places to live in America! Curious to see which ones we are talking about? Read on:

A few weeks ago, USA Today released “Do you live in an ideal community? America’s 50 best cities to live,” naming both Pierre…

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…and Brandon as two of their top picks!

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Why Pierre? As per USA Today, “Most American homeowners spend more than $12,000 per year on housing. In Pierre, South Dakota, most spend less than $8,500 annually.”

Visit Pierre, SD Facebook Also mentioned in the article is Pierre’s access to ample outdoor opportunities, thanks to its close proximity to the Missouri River.

As for Brandon, “the population grew by 13.7 percent over the last five years, 3.5 times the national population growth over the same period,” yet “remains relatively small, with a population of less than 10,000.”

City of Brandon South Dakota - Municipal Government Facebook Another perk mentioned? Brandon’s low crime rate!

Founded in 1880, Pierre - or the town that is “On The River-On The Move” - has a small town feel with a population of nearly 14,000, yet lots to do in terms of shopping, museums, dining, and the aforementioned recreation opportunities!

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Brandon, on the other hand, is even smaller than Pierre, yet feels much bigger, as it is conveniently located a short 10 minute drive from the big city of Sioux Falls.

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Other spots on USA Today’s list include McPherson, Kansas; Powell, Ohio; and West University Place, Texas (pictured).

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In which of these idyllic cities would you like to live?

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For another great place to live in SoDak, check out The Small Town In South Dakota That’s One Of The Most Unique In The Entire U.S.

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Also mentioned in the article is Pierre’s access to ample outdoor opportunities, thanks to its close proximity to the Missouri River.

Another perk mentioned? Brandon’s low crime rate!

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