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High ShortageUpdated January 2026

Pharmacists Market Trends in South Dakota

Real-time hiring demand, salary trends, and employment projections for nursing professionals in South Dakota. Data-driven insights to help you make informed career and recruiting decisions.

Active Job Openings
1,650
+132 from last month
Total Pharmacists
14,200
Licensed in South Dakota
Job Growth Rate
11.8%
Annual projected growth
Average Salary
$65,000
Median annual compensation

2026 Nursing Market Overview: South Dakota

South Dakota is experiencing a high nursing shortage with approximately 1,650 unfilled nursing positions across the state. The demand-to-supply ratio indicates a moderate competition environment for nursing job seekers, making this an opportune time for career advancement.

The state currently employs 14,200 licensed pharmacists, with projections showing growth to 22,578 nurses by 2030. This 11.8% annual growth rate is above the national average of 9%.

Healthcare facilities in South Dakota are actively recruiting nurses with competitive compensation packages, sign-on bonuses averaging $8,000-$15,000, and enhanced benefits to attract qualified candidates in this competitive market.

Key Factors Driving Nursing Demand

1
Rural healthcare needs
Contributing to increased demand
2
Aging demographics
Contributing to increased demand
3
Healthcare expansion
Contributing to increased demand
4
Tribal health services
Contributing to increased demand

Top Cities for Nursing Jobs in South Dakota

1
Sioux Falls
5,200 nurses employed
680
open positions
2
Rapid City
2,800 nurses employed
420
open positions
3
Aberdeen
850 nurses employed
120
open positions
4
Brookings
720 nurses employed
95
open positions
5
Watertown
580 nurses employed
85
open positions

5-Year Employment Projections (2026-2030)

Projected Workforce
22,578
+8,378 nurses
Total Job Openings
9,075
over 5 years
Replacement Needs
2,130
due to retirements

Top Employers Hiring

#1
Sanford Health
#2
Avera Health
#3
Regional Health
#4
Monument Health
#5
Brookings Health System

Licensure Requirements

  • South Dakota RN License
  • Compact License eligible
  • BLS Certification
Nurse-to-Patient Ratio:
Not mandated

Quick Market Stats

Demand Index12%
CompetitionModerate
Avg Time to Hire21 days
Sign-on BonusesCommon

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Frequently Asked Questions: Nursing in South Dakota

What is the nursing shortage like in South Dakota?

South Dakota is experiencing a high nursing shortage with1,650 unfilled positions. The state projects needing9,075 new nurses over the next 5 years.

What is the average nurse salary in South Dakota?

The median annual salary for pharmacists in South Dakota is $65,000. Salaries vary by specialty, experience, and location within the state.

Which cities have the most nursing jobs?

Sioux Falls leads with 680 open positions, followed by Rapid City (420 openings) and Aberdeen (120 openings).

What are the licensure requirements?

To practice as a nurse in South Dakota, you need: South Dakota RN License, Compact License eligible, BLS Certification. The state participates in the Nurse Licensure Compact.

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