Research Scientist Salary
in Rapid City, SD
Conduct original research to advance knowledge in a specific scientific discipline. Median salary in Rapid City: $98K/year. Data from BLS, O*NET, and H-1B disclosures.
Salary range in Rapid City
Source: BLS OES 2026, H-1B DOL Disclosures Q1 2026. Figures represent annual base salary in Rapid City, South Dakota.
Key facts for Rapid City
Salary forecast: Rapid City Research Scientist to 2030
Based on BLS 2022–2032 Employment Projections and WEF Future of Jobs Report 2025. At current growth rates, median salary reaches $98K by 2030.
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Research Scientist Salary in Rapid City, South Dakota: Complete Guide (2026)
The median Research Scientist salary in Rapid City, SD is $98,000 per year as of Q1 2025. This figure represents the midpoint of all reported compensation for this role in the Rapid City–SD metropolitan area, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics, H-1B visa disclosures from the Department of Labor, and O*NET occupational data.
Salary range for Research Scientist in Rapid City
Entry-level Research Scientists in Rapid City with 0–2 years of experience typically earn between $72,000 and $98,000 annually. Mid-career professionals with 3–7 years command $98,000 to $132,000, while senior-level practitioners with 8+ years of experience regularly earn $132,000 to $175,000 or more.
Cost of living in Rapid City for Research Scientists
Rapid City has a cost of living index of 88 compared to the US national average of 100. This means your salary goes approximately 12% further in Rapid City than the national average. Crucially, South Dakota has no state income tax — giving Rapid City-based Research Scientists an immediate 3–5% take-home pay advantage over workers in states like California (9.3%) or New York (6.85%).
Education requirements for Research Scientist
PhD in relevant science field. 40% of these roles offer some remote flexibility.