Sioux Falls vs Washington for Remote Workers (2026)
Scroll down for internet costs, SF savings estimate, and FAQ.
Remote work cost breakdown
| Metric | Sioux Falls South Dakota | Washington District of Columbia |
|---|---|---|
| Overall COL index (100 = US avg) | 88Better | 153 |
| State income tax | None (0%)Better | 5.8% |
| 1BR rent / month | $1,250Better | $3,100 |
| Internet / month | $60Better | $75 |
| Walk score (0–100) | 26 / 100 | 77 / 100Better |
| Monthly utilities | $155Better | $190 |
| Sales tax (combined) | 6.4% | 6%Better |
| Est. monthly savings vs SF | +$5,464Better | +$2,113 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Sioux Falls or Washington better for remote workers?
For remote workers, Sioux Falls edges ahead on overall cost of living, internet costs, and taxes. The no-state-income-tax advantage in Sioux Falls is particularly valuable for remote workers with high salaries. The best choice depends on your priorities — cost vs walkability vs community.
How much money can I save working remotely in Sioux Falls vs staying in San Francisco?
If you earn $120K remotely and relocate from San Francisco (COL index 194) to Sioux Falls (COL index 88), you'd save approximately $5,464/month on equivalent purchasing power — or about $65,568/year. This doesn't account for potential salary adjustments.
What is internet service like in Sioux Falls vs Washington?
Median monthly internet costs are $60 in Sioux Falls and $75 in Washington. Both cities have competitive broadband options suitable for remote work, including gigabit fiber in most areas.
Can I negotiate a remote salary if I move from a high-cost city to Sioux Falls or Washington?
Many employers now use location-based pay. Moving from a top-tier city to Sioux Falls could trigger a salary adjustment. Even at 85% of a $150K SF salary ($127.5K), the lower COL in Sioux Falls or Washington typically means significantly higher purchasing power and take-home after local taxes.
Which city has better walkability for remote workers who don't need to commute?
Washington has a higher walk score (77 vs 26), meaning more errands, coffee shops, and restaurants are reachable on foot — a big quality-of-life factor when you're home all day. Walk scores above 70 are considered "very walkable."
$100K in Sioux Falls has the same purchasing power as $174K in Washington
SF savings estimate based on COL index vs San Francisco (194). Actual savings depend on lifestyle and salary adjustments. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation · Q1 2026