Affordable

What Salary Do You Need to Live in Scotland?

To afford a 2-bedroom in Scotland, you need to earn at least $26,040/year based on estimated fair market rent data. The median household income here is $58,958, which means the typical resident is $32,918 above the threshold.

Census ACS Data Pop. 780

Salary Required by Bedroom Size

Bedroom	Monthly Rent	Monthly Income	Annual Salary	vs. Median
Studio	$456	$1,520	$18,240	$-40,718
1 Bedroom	$540	$1,800	$21,600	$-37,358
2 Bedroom BENCHMARK	$651	$2,170	$26,040	$-32,918
3 Bedroom	$794	$2,647	$31,760	$-27,198
4 Bedroom	$977	$3,257	$39,080	$-19,878

Affordability Breakdown

Where the required salary line crosses above Scotland's median income — housing becomes unaffordable for the typical resident.

Required Salary Median Income

Income vs. Rent Snapshot

Median Income

$58,958

Annual household

2BR Required Salary

$26,040

Under 30% rule

Income Gap

+$32,918

Surplus

Verdict

Affordable

Ratio: 13.3%

The 30% Rule Calculator

Enter your annual salary to see what you can afford in Scotland

Your Annual Salary

Pre-filled with Scotland's median household income

Max monthly rent you can afford$1,474

Studio

$456/mo

1 BR

$540/mo

2 BR

$651/mo

3 BR

$794/mo

4 BR

$977/mo

Your salary is $0 above the median income in Scotland.

Salary Comparison by Bedroom

Bars left of the marker line are affordable for Scotland's median earner. Bars to the right require above-median income.

Affordable Above Median Median Income

What This Means If You're Moving to Scotland

Scotland, South Dakota stands out as one of the more financially accessible housing markets in the state. The median household income of $58,958 significantly exceeds the $26,040 needed to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom at 30% of gross income — leaving a $32,918 annual surplus for savings, debt repayment, or lifestyle spending.

For remote workers or relocators evaluating Scotland, a studio at $456/month offers an even more aggressive savings rate. Even a 3-bedroom at $794/month remains accessible for dual-income households earning above $31,760.

To live comfortably with room for non-housing expenses, a break-even salary of approximately $39,060 would position you well — though many residents in Scotland manage on less given the favorable rent-to-income dynamics.

Economic Outlook

Local Job Market & Housing Dynamics

Affording rent isn't just about housing prices—it's heavily dependent on local employment opportunities and the strength of the job market in Scotland, South Dakota.

With a total population of 780, the city supports an active civilian workforce of 333 people. A strong employment base often indicates a stable economy, which is crucial when committing to a lease requiring a $26,040 annual salary. The ratio of employed residents to the total population provides insight into the local economic health and competition for both jobs and housing.

Employed Workforce

333

Active civilian employees in Scotland

Frequently Asked Questions About Renting in Scotland

What salary do I need to live in Scotland, South Dakota?

To afford a 2-bedroom in Scotland under the 30% rule, you need an annual salary of at least $26,040. The median household income in Scotland is $58,958.

Can I afford a 2-bedroom in Scotland on $58,958?

The affordability verdict for Scotland is "Affordable". The rent-to-income ratio is 13.3%, meaning median earners have a $32,918 surplus.

What is the average rent in Scotland compared to median income?

The median gross rent in Scotland is $540/month. With a median household income of $58,958, residents spend approximately 13.3% of their income on rent.

What salary do I need for a studio in Scotland?

A studio in Scotland rents for approximately $456/month. Under the 30% rule, you need an annual salary of $18,240 to afford this.

Is Scotland considered an affordable place to live?

Based on the surplus of $32,918 and an affordability verdict of "Affordable", Scotland is considered a affordable rental market when comparing the required 2-bedroom salary of $26,040 to the local median household income.

How Scotland Compares

Other cities in South Dakota with salary requirements