Pop. 0.9MCOL: 92%5 month season#47 Market
Off-peak rates available - best time for interior work

How Much to Charge for Lawn Mowing in South Dakota?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator

With 0.9M residents and a 69% homeownership rate, South Dakota has approximately 611,800 potential lawn mowing customers. A growing market - get in early, build your reputation, and watch your client base expand. The 5-month season is shorter, so plan your off-season strategy early. South Dakota rates run about 4% lower than neighboring North Dakota - useful context if you serve clients near the border.

Or Use South Dakota State Average

Don't see your city? Use the calculator below with South Dakota statewide rates.

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$

Suggested: $32/hr based on South Dakota wages

min
$

Gas, blade wear, maintenance

Your Pricing

Recommended Price

$49

Range: $45 - $53

Cost Breakdown

Labor Cost$27.60
Travel Cost$7.36
Equipment$4.60
Subtotal$39.56
Markup (25%)+$9.44

While you mow, customers call. 62% won't leave voicemail.

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South Dakota Lawn Mowing Market Intelligence

Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for lawn mowing in South Dakota.

Lawn Mowing Pricing Breakdown

Pricing ModelLowTypicalHigh
Per lawn (1/4 acre)$28$41$55
Per sq ft$0.01$0.02$0.03
Per hour$32$42$51

Prices adjusted for South Dakota cost of living (92% of national average).

How Much Can You Earn Doing Lawn Mowing in South Dakota?

Part-time
15 hrs/week
$865/mo
$10,380/yr
Full-time
35 hrs/week
$2,019/mo
$24,228/yr
Recommended
Hustler
50 hrs/week
$2,885/mo
$34,620/yr

Estimates based on South Dakota average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.

South Dakota vs Other Markets

MarketHourly RateCOLDemand
South Dakota$32/hr92%low
National Average$35/hr100%-
North Dakota(neighbor)$34/hr96%low
Minnesota(neighbor)$34/hr97%high
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South Dakota Licensing Requirements

  • No state contractor license required
  • No state income tax
  • Workers comp required for employees
  • Simpler business environment

This information is provided as general guidance only. Requirements may change and vary by locality. Always verify current requirements with state and local licensing authorities before starting your business.

South Dakota Lawn Mowing Business Tips

Local insights for running a successful lawn mowing business in South Dakota

pricing

Short season (May-September) means premium pricing is expected.

marketing

Sioux Falls is the primary market. Limited competition in smaller cities.

pricing

No state income tax is a business advantage. Lower overhead enables competitive pricing.

Key Insight: South Dakota's low taxes and limited competition create opportunity for dedicated operators.

Lawn Mowing Demand in South Dakota by Month

Plan your year around seasonal demand patterns.

Jan
0%
Feb
0%
Mar
15%
Apr
45%
May
75%
Jun
95%
Jul
100%
Aug
90%
Sep
65%
Oct
35%
Nov
10%
Dec
0%
Peak: Jun-Aug
Off-season: Nov-Mar

Plan alternative income sources for the off-season months.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I charge for lawn mowing in South Dakota?

In South Dakota, lawn mowing rates range from $26-$48/hour, with an average of $32/hour. South Dakota's cost of living is 92% of the national average. Major cities like Sioux Falls command higher rates ($33/hr), while smaller markets like Watertown average $30/hr.

What's the South Dakota average for lawn mowing services?

The South Dakota statewide average for lawn mowing is $32/hour or approximately $96-$160 per job. This reflects South Dakota's 92% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.

Which South Dakota cities have the highest lawn mowing rates?

In South Dakota, Sioux Falls has the highest lawn mowing rates at around $33/hour due to its 95% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen.

Do I need a license for lawn mowing in South Dakota?

South Dakota licensing: No state contractor license required No state income tax Workers comp required for employees Simpler business environment This information is provided as general guidance only. Requirements may change and vary by locality. Always verify current requirements with state and local licensing authorities before starting your business.

Is South Dakota a good market for lawn mowing businesses?

South Dakota offers a competitive market for lawn mowing with rates averaging $32/hour. The state's 92% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen.

Trusted Data Sources

Based on

10,000+ quotes

Used by

5,000+ pros

Updated

January 2026

Verified by

BLS Data

Lawn Mowing pricing data for South Dakota is sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Census Bureau cost of living data, and verified quotes from local service professionals.

Data Sources:

  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
  • South Dakota Labor Department
  • U.S. Census Bureau

Last updated: January 2026