South Dakota vs 
California
Side-by-side wage comparison within United States.
South Dakota
Minimum Wage
$11.85 /hr
+ 63% vs United States national rate
Avg. gross salary
$3,800 /mo
Median household income
$69,457 /yr
California
Minimum Wage
$16.90 /hr
+ 133% vs United States national rate
Avg. gross salary
$7,200 /mo
Median household income
$91,905 /yr
South Dakota sets its minimum wage 30% lower than California, at $11.85 per hour. Average gross salaries are 47% lower in South Dakota at $3,800/mo. California has a notably higher cost of living than South Dakota, which affects how far wages stretch. South Dakota's economy centers on agriculture and financial services, while California is driven by technology and entertainment.
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | South Dakota | California |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum wage /hr | $11.85 | $16.90 |
| Minimum wage /mo | $2,053.96 /mo | $2,929.28 /mo |
| Minimum wage /yr | $24,648 /yr | $35,152 /yr |
| Avg. gross salary /mo | $3,800 /mo | $7,200 /mo |
| Median household income /yr | $69,457 /yr | $91,905 /yr |
| Median individual income /yr | $35,282 /yr | $43,994 /yr |
Percentage differences compare South Dakota to California.
See this comparison from California's perspective: California vs South Dakota
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Massachusetts Frequently Asked Questions
How does the minimum wage in South Dakota compare to California?
South Dakota: $11.85/hr. California: $16.90/hr.
What is the average salary in South Dakota vs California?
South Dakota: $3,800/mo. California: $7,200/mo.