South Dakota Speech-Language Pathologist Salary Guide - 2024

Speech Pathologist Programs

by Speech Pathologist Programs Staff

Updated: February 28th, 2024

Speech-language pathologists are essential in aiding people with speech and communication impairments. The need for speech-language pathologists is growing in South Dakota, which is causing salaries to rise in the industry.

The average yearly pay for speech-language pathologists in South Dakota, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, is $64,030 (Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2022). The state’s highest paid speech-language pathologists earn about $81,090 annually, while the lowest paid earn about $47,440.

The type of employer is one aspect that can affect a speech-language pathologist’s pay. For instance, school employees typically receive lesser pay than those employed by healthcare organizations. The compensation of a speech-language pathologist can also be influenced by their amount of experience and educational background.

It is important to note that while wages in South Dakota are lower than those in other states, the cost of living is also much lower, making the state an appealing alternative for people wishing to start careers in the industry.

Overall, speech-language pathologists in South Dakota can anticipate making a good life while improving the lives of people with communication and speech problems. It’s a fantastic moment to pursue a career in speech-language pathology because of the growing demand for these professionals.

South Dakota Speech-Language Pathologist Salaries – Visualized

Speech-Language Pathologist Salary by Industry in South Dakota

Speech-Language Pathologists Salaries in urban areas of South Dakota

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
Rapid City, SD110$62,010
Sioux Falls, SD150$64,310
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021

Speech-Language Pathologists Salaries in rural areas of South Dakota

Metro Area# EmployedMean Salary
East South Dakota nonmetropolitan area70$62,240
West South Dakota nonmetropolitan area50$64,610
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics - 2021

What is it like to work as an SLP in South Dakota?

Depending on where you work as a speech-language pathologist in South Dakota, the job can differ substantially. Let’s take a deeper look at life for speech-language pathologists in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and Pierre, three cities in the state.

Speech-language pathologists are in high demand in Sioux Falls because the city has a sizable healthcare sector. This provides a wide range of employment options and a competitive wage. The city also offers a vibrant cultural scene and a wide range of recreational opportunities, making it an excellent location for people seeking a healthy work-life balance.

While Rapid City is a smaller city with a more rural atmosphere. Although there might not be as many career options as in Sioux Falls, the cost of living is lower and the city is surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Rapid City’s speech-language pathologists will enjoy a slower pace of life and a close-knit community.

The state capital and center of political and governmental activity is Pierre. At Pierre, speech-language pathologists may find employment opportunities in educational institutions, public institutions, and private clinics. The city is an excellent choice for individuals who like a slower pace of life because it is adjacent to outdoor recreation areas and has a small-town atmosphere.

In conclusion, depending on the area, working as a speech-language pathologist in South Dakota can offer a variety of experiences. There are chances for speech-language pathologists to improve the lives of people with communication and speech impairments whether they reside in a bustling city or a more rural area.