Pierre vs Sioux Falls: Veterinarian Salary (2026)
Compare veterinarian salaries between Pierre, SD and Sioux Falls, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Pierre, SD | Sioux Falls, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $119,737▲ | $103,787 |
| Hourly Rate | $57.56▲ | $49.90 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,447 | $79,466▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $99,353▲ | $83,730 |
| 75th Percentile | $150,532▲ | $134,695 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $185,592▲ | $153,484 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 80▲ |
Verdict
Pierre, SD offers better overall compensation for veterinarians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Sioux Falls.
The salary gap between Pierre and Sioux Falls is $15,950 (15.37%). Pierre's median is -12.81% compared to the US national median of $137,334.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Pierre spans $116,145,Sioux Falls spans $74,018. Pierre has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Pierre ($129,027 effective) pays 12.67% more than Sioux Falls ($114,516 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Pierre if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($119,737/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($185,592)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $129,027)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Sioux Falls if…
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinarian salaries in Pierre grew 22.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 22.2% growth in Sioux Falls over the same period.
Pierre, SD
$92,418 (2024) → $113,430 (2025)
Sioux Falls, SD
$80,430 (2019) → $98,320 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pierre, SD
Sioux Falls, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM
Career Analyst
Dr. Alice Nguyen has 10 years of experience in veterinary medicine. She specializes in small animal surgery. She currently works at a suburban veterinary clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.56% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Dr. Alice Nguyen, DVM, a licensed veterinarian with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov