How South Dakota Jumped Six Spots In The 2026 Best States Ranking

Just when you thought South Dakota's good thing in its standing among America's best states couldn't get any better, it has.

The Mount Rushmore State, eighth overall on last year's U.S. News & World Report's annual list, has landed at a new, lofty spot for the 2026 Best States rankings.

The rankings evaluate all 50 states to capture how they best serve their citizens
across a range of categories, including Healthcare, Education, Economy, Infrastructure, Opportunity, Fiscal Stability, Crime & Corrections and Natural Environment.

For the fourth consecutive year, Utah has earned top recognition as the number one state in the country and right behind is South Dakota.

The state jumped up six spots from 2025 - eighth to second - thanks to what U.S. News says are '...positive swings in healthcare, economy and opportunity.'

2026 Best States in America (U.S. News & World Report)

1. Utah
2. South Dakota
3. Minnesota
4. North Dakota
5. Nebraska
6. New Hampshire
7. Idaho
8. Florida
9. Washington
10. Vermont

South Dakota's other stellar ranking came in the 'Natural Environment' category, where the state was the runner-up to Hawaii.

The 2026 Best States rankings draw upon 71 metrics and thousands of data points to
measure how well U.S. states are performing for their citizens.

In addition to healthcare and education, the metrics take into account a state’s economic growth; its roads, bridges, internet access and other infrastructure; its public safety record; the fiscal stability of state government; and the opportunity it affords its residents.

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From Frybread to Pheasants - Here are South Dakota's Official State Things

Every state in our nation has chosen things that represent the state in one way or another to be official state things. Like a flower, or animal. South Dakota is no different.

The Mount Rushmore has a state flower. But did you know we also have a state tree and a state fish? Yes, we even have a state code.

Here is what we have so far in Wyoming. Thanks to the South Dakota Secretary of State's Office for the info:

Most Expensive South Dakota Related Things on eBay

In South Dakota, we've always prided ourselves on having one of the most reasonable cost of living rates in America.

But that doesn't mean that you can't spend a pretty penny when it comes to Mount Rushmore-related items.

All you've got to do is head to eBay where, in and among the 98,751 search results for South Dakota, you'll find some things that will set you back plenty.

Gallery Credit: Jeff Harkness

Worst Places to Live in South Dakota

A surprising town was named the worst place to live in all of South Dakota and the reason behind it is a bit unexpected.

Money Inc. made a list of the 20 worst cities and towns to live in all of South Dakota and no part of the state is left unmarked.

The list focused on a number of key factors, including crime rate, unemployment, low wages, and school funding.

So which city is the "worst" in South Dakota, according to the article? Read on:

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are not my own and are taken from a list provided by Moneyinc.com

WHAT?!? - These Guys Just Called Chislic The 'WORST FOOD IN SOUTH DAKOTA'!

Source: South Dakota Just Jumped Six Spots on Best State List

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