Assisted Living Facilities in Pierre, SD

Pierre, South Dakota, with just under 14,000 residents, is the second-smallest state capital in America. At the small city's two state parks, Farm Island Recreation Area and LaFramboise Island Nature Area, the approximately 2,335 senior residents can spend plenty of time fishing, hiking or bird-watching. 

To accommodate the needs of these seniors as they age, there are two assisted living facilities within city limits. The South Dakota Department of Health regulates these facilities, in Pierre and throughout the state, to ensure seniors receive the best possible care.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Assisted Living in Pierre

• Seniors who have local or out-of-town medical appointments can book rides through River Cities Public Transit. Seniors pay discounted fares for pre-scheduled rides. Since public transit in Pierre is limited, seniors may prefer the convenience of an assisted living facility that provides transportation to residents.
  
• The Pierre area is home to world-class medical facilities, including Avera St. Mary’s Hospital, in the event of medical emergencies or illness.
  
• At 3.93 per 1,000 residents, Pierre’s violent crime rate is slightly lower than both the state and national average, which may give seniors some peace of mind. However, at 37.2 per 1,000 residents, Pierre’s property crime rate is almost double the state average. 
  
• Seniors who move to Pierre may notice that they have more room in their assisted living budget. The city’s overall cost of living is 17.6% lower than the national average, with the most significant savings in housing and transportation. Groceries are slightly more expensive than the U.S. norm.
  
• Pierre receives only 18 inches of rain per year, much less than the U.S. average of 38 inches. In the city’s rainiest month, July, about 3.3 inches of rain falls. Seniors who dislike being stuck inside on rainy days may appreciate this climate. 
  
• For history buffs, there are many interesting attractions in Pierre. Seniors may enjoy the many museums that celebrate local history, such as the Verendrye Museum and the Museum of the South Dakota State Historical Society. Seniors who want to learn more about science can take advantage of discounted admission at the South Dakota Discovery Center. 

Note: Data reported on this page was updated in 2019 and based on the latest 2018 figures.