Let the numbers do the talking.
Box Elder, SD vs Rapid City, SD
Box Elder, SD vs Rapid City, SD: What the data shows
Box Elder, SD is in Box Elder, SD while Rapid City, SD is in Rapid City, SD — both in the same state. On home prices, Rapid City, SD is the more affordable option at $206,700 median — $63,600 less than Box Elder, SD's $270,300. WYLT rates Box Elder, SD as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Rapid City, SD as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Box Elder, SD has the stronger safety profile of the two. Box Elder, SD has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Rapid City, SD has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Box Elder, SD has Low flood risk and Rapid City, SD has Low flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, Rapid City, SD has the higher school rating — Box Elder, SD rates 6/10 and Rapid City, SD rates 7.2/10.
| Category | Box Elder, SD | Rapid City, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $270K | $207K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $914 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $72K ✓ Higher income | $52K |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 35 min | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6/10 | 7.2/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families looking for affordable rural livingPeople who prefer a close‑knit communityIndividuals willing to drive for amenities | FamiliesOutdoor enthusiastsBudget buyers |
Bottom line
If you must live in the rural area, Box Elder might be a better fit for extremely price-sensitive buyers or families who prefer a very close community. However, everyone else should strongly consider Rapid City for its slightly lower cost of living, somewhat better schools, and proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Share this comparison