Pros and Cons of Living in Rapid City, SD | Should You Move Here?

[@lisadenney7758]

Moved to AZ from NY for more freedom 11 years ago. We are currently looking to move from AZ to SD in search of freedom once again!! So excited!!

[@TristanEmond]

Awesome! Happy to help you with that move (of course. 🤣) Check out our website in the description to search for homes around here. What areas are you loving so far?

[@lisadenney7758]

@@TristanEmond Rapid City, Deadwood, Spearfish!

[@lisadenney7758]

@@TristanEmond Hi, looking at the multi unit listed for 184 in the Monte Vista area. Is that a good neighborhood?

[@nkley1]

@GUNS N RODENTS Geez ...it seems they try to infect anywhere they can. Why don’t they all just stay in Commifornia! God bless, and thanks for the warning!

[@maximussampson2218]

@GUNS N RODENTS Really? I am taking a trip, I am getting out of a liberal hell hole and I wanted to see South dakota, went to Idaho which is my backup plan. I hear good things about Sioux Falls, but I do not want to be near leftists.

[@BruceJC75]

A place that’s far away from everything and everyone else?? Freedom?? Sounds like my kinda place!!!

[@TristanEmond]

I mean, there is about 75,000 people in Rapid City, but if we go north a bit we can really get you away from people. 😂 We love it here in SD!

[@JrueThrondsen]

People say this but can't hang with Winter

[@jonohh1028]

​@user-ll6zn3xv9v the winters here SUCK!!! Deep freeze for a good 4-5 months.. it is beautiful though.

[@BrianBell-p9b]

🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@jenv9782]

I just want to cry! It sounds like Paradise compared to where I am. I barely remember these things anymore: Freedom, and also: friendly, honest, hardworking people. Seems too good to be true!

[@TristanEmond]

We love our SD! Today was so beautiful too with fresh snow and sun shining. 😁

[@tschock81]

Lived there 33 years! Terrible! Never moving back from Texas! 🤗🤗

[@roomfulofblues3173]

Trying to figure out where to retire and South Dakota is at top of my list.

[@TristanEmond]

I'm happy to help you when you decide to make the move. Sometimes the snow can be the biggest factor against based on others I've talked with. 🤷‍♂️ But we've got a great quality of life!

[@elizabethveverka5738]

I'm retired and have decided to move to Rapid City but I need to learn about the process for rental assistance for seniors. I'm watching videos and appreciate your video. Thank you

[@novastariha8043]

I am getting out of Mpls MN ASAP Too SD Long winters in MN too with traffic hell

[@TristanEmond]

I grew up in SW MN...so I understand the long winter thing. And the humidity! Winters are usually much more bearable here.

[@damienwilliams6004]

I thought they burnt that liberal dumpster fire down over the summer. Conservative towns is where it's at.

[@valiantv2897]

Great video, hello from Melbourne Australia, formerly voted the worlds most livable city, but this year weve lived through the most draconian lockdown in the free world. Our left wing premier { governor } displayed a real thirst for the lockdowns and unfortunately seems to still have a reasonable amount of support from the brainwashed population, leaving me and my family seriously looking to get the hell out before next winter. Anyway, while dreaming of where to run to, i came across South Dakota through seeing your excellent Governor, Kristi Noem, shes fantastic, and has a real sense of what life is all about, without freedom, you have nothing, please dont take it for granted. Looking forward to visiting you guys one day

[@TristanEmond]

Wow! First of all, thank you so much for watching. Australia! Sorry you had to go through all of that. We have been blessed to be where we all through all of this. Thanks for your comment and maybe we'll be able to take a vaca and see you some day! 😍

[@dennyray3532]

I moved from Chicago to Sioux Falls in 2019, freedom freedom freedom! It's nice not being taxed to death.

[@TristanEmond]

Glad you love it here. :)

[@garym2879]

Leaving New York. Moving to the USA.

[@JrueThrondsen]

Huh?

[@garym2879]

@@JrueThrondsen NYC is present-day East Berlin.

[@knighttrider]

Lol😅😅😅

[@NYPrepper]

How can I get in touch with you? I currently live in a small town in Upstate NY and am working remotely. I have been interested in Rapid City area for a long time and now that I am working remotely my dream can be a reality. I am considering relocating in the spring-summer of 2021. I want to live in a more free state that is lower population then NY and still have a great place to start a family. I will be visiting Rapid City area at the end of December and would like to maybe view some rental properties and scout out neighborhoods...no kids right now just me and my fiancee. We are outdoorsy people especially. Right now we live in NY's Catskill Mountains so we're no stranger to cold and snow. I would love to get in touch with you.

[@TristanEmond]

This sounds awesome. I'd love to meet with you in December. Email me [e-mail] or 605-391-7086 (be sure to leave a VM if I'm not available) Talk soon!

[@NYPrepper]

@@TristanEmond Thanks!!

[@vivianavanwagoner4994]

I love it!! Moving next year from New Mexico....Rapid City maybe the place for us💕

[@TristanEmond]

Awesome! Hit us up if you get a chance to visit and we'll show you around. 👍 [e-mail]

[@robsvideos1140]

Thank you for the trip down memory lane. I grew up on the Elseworth Air Force Base in the 80's. Rapid City was a fun trip for us.

[@TristanEmond]

thanks for watching! Glad you enjoyed it. Things are a bit different from the 80s... :)

[@robsvideos1140]

@@TristanEmond When I lived in SD, Mt. Rushmore had a flat parking lot, I'm told its a multi-story garage now.

[@TristanEmond]

@@robsvideos1140 yeah remember that walk thru the flags along the blacktop w trees surrounding it? Very Black Hills feel? In the 90s they did a huge remodel to make it more "monumental" (and of course deal w more tourists). It looks amazing and impressive, but kinda miss the Black Hills feel to it.

[@DaveBowman345]

We have Rapid City Regional Airport for taking a quick weekend get-away... but you'd think we'd have passenger train service, like Amtrak, too. Even an intrastate line would be useful for getting to Pierre or Sioux Falls once in a while. But nothing like that exists here. It only adds to the isolation.

[@TristanEmond]

True story. Better have a good car to get somewhere. Or take the bus...just a short 12 hour jaunt across the state. 🤣

[@mellowmoods8393]

After 19 years of living on the west side of Oahu, a divorce that netted me full custody of my 3 kids, and giving half of everything I own to my ex-wife, a move is definitely in order. My criterion is life with a much slower pace, a less expensive town, and with more wholesome and humble people. Honestly, I can't decide between RC, Sioux Falls, and the suburbs around Omaha. But at this point, it just seems like trying to decide which 24K gold ring one likes the best.

[@TristanEmond]

You'll find that in any of the places you mentioned. Definitely more of a business culture in Sioux Falls and Omaha. We are more touristy here in the Black Hills and are more laid back (usually). You'll also have less humidity on the Westside of the state vs Eastside. Watch my videos for more about Rapid City. I got people in SF and Omaha that can help if needed as well. 👍

[@Glasher1]

When I arrived in the Rapid City area driving into the Black Hills, I drove by a spot selling helicopter rides. His having a slow day and my being the only one going for the tour I offered him 3x the normal fare for a memorable ride. That was exactly what I got. When we got back to his base of operations, the pilot buzzed the field, climbed high rolling over and back down to buzz the field again. He done this a half dozen times. Well worth the extra cash. It was sad to heard on the radio two weeks later that he had crashed killing himself and two tourist. I found the -55F & -65F wind chills interesting since I had to work in it. Also, my friend was in the hospital once and his room was on the 2nd floor, he couldn't see out his window because of a snowdrift. Underpasses needed to be dug out for traffic. In Rapid City, due to blizzards, there was so much snow it had to be plowed to the center of the roads to make them passable. Sometimes, on the Air Base we would jump off the 3rd FL fire escape of the barracks into snowdrifts. During one blizzard, to make it to the chow hall without loosing anyone we would tie ourselves to a long rope and make our way there and back. There may not be so much snow fall, but the high winds of SD sure does know what to do with it. For a while I had a mobile home in Box Elder. The wind would drift snow to the roof (blocking that way out) while it would clear the snow away down to the ground on the other side exposing the grass. Things have changed some since I was last in Deadwood too. The last time I was there, the town hall was at one end of the town and a cathouse at the other end. I miss the time I spent in the Black Hills. I made adjustments to my van so I could go most everywhere my friends with 4 wheelers went. There were out of the way camping spots and abandoned goldmines to explore. Cliff diving at Lake Pactola was a blast.

[@TristanEmond]

Thanks for sharing your experiences about living here. I love your comment about the wind knowing what to do with the snow - so right on! haha! So many things to experience in the Black Hills!

[@omarkhanlilcurry]

Nice video! I’m thinking of visiting next week to visit the badlands

[@TristanEmond]

The Badlands are really cool. Like a whole different world. If you have time to be out there after dark - wow the stars are amazing!

[@omarkhanlilcurry]

@@TristanEmond how is it during winter?? Do you think it has it’s own charm then? Or shall I visit in the spring

[@TristanEmond]

@@omarkhanlilcurry Each season does have its own charm and beauty. You'll have much fewer people in the winter to explore. In the Spring, the mix of the green grass on some of the buttes next to the desert-like surroundings is really cool. Definitely worth a visit in all seasons, you won't regret coming at any point that you are able to.

[@ericfichter5226]

Nebraska gets snow in March as well, except for this year. Rapid City doesn't seem so bad

[@TristanEmond]

This year was certainly different. I honestly expected a bigger snow storm like in April or something. 😂

[@devilynsdesigns2168]

like the video. do you have a podcast? your voice is enjoyable to listen to.

[@TristanEmond]

Awe thank you. I've kinda always wanted to do a podcast! But it's just one more thing to add that I haven't planned for. Thanks for watching!

[@kevinaalberts9251]

I live in michigan we get 1-2 days of sun...a WEEK!!

[@TristanEmond]

Love me some sunshine. There was even some sun peeking out through the snow today. :)

[@nursenasdaq]

I live in Michigan too looking at south Dakota. Compared weather and they have way more sunny days than us.

[@TristanEmond]

@@nursenasdaq I so much love the sun. 🌞

[@ThereIsAlwaysaWay2]

I admit, your girls at the end where 100% genuine and a nice addition. :)

[@TristanEmond]

Actually those girls belong to some clients that visited and we went driving around. They were so excited to meet me and wanted to know why I became a KZbinr. 🤣 I asked them if they wanted to be on the video at the end and they were SO excited. Certainly a memorable moment.

[@dovygoodguy1296]

How do winters in Rapid City compare with winters in Canadian cities like Winnipeg, Saskatoon and Calgary?

[@TristanEmond]

I have no experience to answer this question with any authority. It's warmer I know, but we still get the wind. Our snow is light and drifty until the spring snows - which is usually when we get the real heavy stuff. We'll have cold, then warm, then cold again. Having lived in MN - the winters here are much milder.

[@AlexBeltran]

That Thumbnail is GOLD! I love it!

[@TristanEmond]

Thanks! I like how it turned out. Might see if I can contrast my shirt colors later ,but I had to hit publish!

[@captaindreadnought212]

Englishman from south London here, My girlfriend is American and lived in Rapid city for a few years when she was younger and says it was her favourite place to live. We've been talking about living together in Rapid city sometime in the future and it honestly looks lovely, nice change from living in a capital city.

[@TristanEmond]

Well that's quite a statement! :) We are certainly quite a bit laid back over here compared to many major cities.

[@teresitarichard847]

I live in Rapid City for 5 years if you're not into fishing and hunting this is not your kind of place it so remote after awhile you get bored but if you like isolation this is the place for you just get ready to stock up on food cause they always have a blizzard 🥶.Glad to get out of there!!!!!

[@TristanEmond]

Glad you are getting to a place you love! I did have some clients that moved here from Denver and they got bored too - so they moved away. But so many others enjoy the Black Hills. We are finding new trails and places to explore. But yes - it is remote. If you love the city life...Rapid City is not the place for you. 😁 Thanks for your comment!

[@TheDSquad]

that dukes of hazards clip was hysterical, put a big smile on my face from great family memories watching that show. great video. the hail...are there parts of black hills area that get the hail less?

[@TristanEmond]

When I put that piece in there I laughed too. 🤣 I'd like to say yes on the hail - but we've had big stuff all over this year...

[@baderalbahiti4534]

How’s the winter compared to Michigan

[@TristanEmond]

I've never been to Michigan, so I can only theorize that you have snow from the beginning of winter to the end and humidity/cold winds coming off the lakes? We usually have milder winters - we'll still get really cold and snow, but then it'll warm up to 40 or 50 for a few days and melt it all, then start all over again. We get most of our snow in March, when the weather is teasing us about warming up, and that's usually the 2 foot dumps that are the heavy snow. Watch my what's the weather like in Rapid City for more info!

[@rogerfredericks2992]

Don't forget the next close mall from rapid city is 200 miles away.

[@TristanEmond]

Yep. We are a bit isolated around here. 😳

[@jtfike]

I live in minnesota and you are saying snow in March is a con….

[@christophercosby4224]

The Black Hills are beautiful, I hope to make it back there soon. Hello from Tennessee.

[@TristanEmond]

We've really been loving where we live - this year especially. I'd love to meet with you for coffee! Just sold a house to a couple from Tennessee on Friday. 😁 Thanks for watching!!

[@christophercosby4224]

@@TristanEmond Maybe so -- after I retire, my wife and I may be talking to you.My wife has never been to the Black Hills -- I want to take her up there and to Yellowstone. Have a great Christmas and New Year.

[@TristanEmond]

We love it up here. Yellowstone is amazing...then go to Glacier! Merry Christmas to you too.

[@dynamicformsstudio1417]

At 5:23 Actress Renata Sorrah being confused with Julia Roberts! lol! Priceless!

[@TristanEmond]

Right? I had no idea!! I relied on google to be right when I searched "Julia Roberts meme".... HAHA!

[@dynamicformsstudio1417]

@@TristanEmond I was just joking with you… I only know the actress because I am actually from Brazil. Great video by the way. I have a friend that moved there recently and I wanted to know a little bit more about it.

[@TristanEmond]

@@dynamicformsstudio1417 haha! i appreciate you calling me out! 😂 Thanks for watching the vids and commenting. I hope your friend is enjoying life in SD!

[@novastariha8043]

“Deadwood $ Lead “ great shopping in Non big name stores with merchandise and apparel of highest quality and uniqueness

[@TheBandit7613]

Like Colorado (where I an from) people LOVE to lie about the amount of sunny days. Rapid City officially is sunny 63% of the time which is pretty good but not great. Denver is 69% and here in Vegas it's 85%. I LOVE South Dakota... In the SUMMER.

[@TristanEmond]

69% is awesome! I love me some sun! This winter hasn't been too bad so far....it was 60 last week and will be 55 tomorrow. 🤷‍♂️😎 Thanks for watching!

[@himmeluberdeutschland401]

Yep, Coloradoans love to lie about Colorado period. They complain about transplants but perpetuate the myths. Live in Colorado and can't wait to leave.

[@peetos-chan2835]

Is flooding an issue in rapid city? Just got word of the 1972 flood and all the deaths, was wondering what they are doing now to mitigate that?

[@TristanEmond]

Since then, the areas most affected by the flood (along Rapid Creek) have been made into green spaces - which is why we have so many amazing parks. They've also done alot of watershed work to make sure water gets channeled along the right way. The water in the creek does still get high during wet years, and there are areas in town that get affected when the water table is high (noted by flood zones), but I haven't worried too much about a flood like 72 since I've been here in 1990. But I guess anything could happen! 🤷‍♂️😎

[@peetos-chan2835]

@@TristanEmond thank you! I was less worried and more interested than anything.

[@TristanEmond]

@@peetos-chan2835 You know it. 👍 They didn't treat it lightly, I know that's for sure.

[@Mindywright27]

“Remote” sounds like a PRO to me! Thanks for the great video!!

[@TristanEmond]

Sure is nice not to have people everywhere! 😎

[@novastariha8043]

“Deadwood” So COOL !!

[@kiranrai9142]

Im coming there soon..

[@TristanEmond]

Boo yeah! Let me know if you need help finding a place. 😉

[@Taskerofpuppets]

I love South Dakota! Been there 3 times and always spent good time in the Black Hills. Favourite part is Crazy Horse & Custer State Park and its native people.

[@TristanEmond]

You can never run out of places to explore and things to do! We do love our Black Hills!

[@Taskerofpuppets]

@@TristanEmond True, Indeed. In my 3 visits over the last 19 years I've not ever taken the time to visit Rapid City. Normally we park ourselves in Custer and web out from there, spending our time around Crazy Horse, Needles Hwy and Mt Rushmore area. Recently we went all over Custer SP (missed Iron Mtn. Pigtails, yikes! next time) and The Badlands during sunset. I surely would like to visit that area around I-90 like downtown RC and it’s Presidential sculptures, the ICBM Silo and petrified gardens. We’ve been to Wall Drugs in 06’. Have you ever been to Black Hills Burgers in Custer? When we were there last August for 4 days we never had the chance to go. How is it? The fresh handmade bison burgers sound good. Still haven’t tried Chislic 😂Cheers and thanks for your videos. 🤠😎

[@TristanEmond]

@@Taskerofpuppets never made the trip to BH burger. You have to go knowing you'll wait an hour to get in. I've only heard good things. 💯

[@TristanEmond]

@@Taskerofpuppets just heard that BH Burger and Bun is closing this year. 😥 owners just tired of it and not having fun anymore sounds like. I never took the opportunity to go but heard great things. Some good chislic in some random small town Cafe east river. 🤣

[@Taskerofpuppets]

@@TristanEmond Hi Tristan, thanks, man. I’ll check that chislic next time I'm in the area. Perhaps they have it here in ORegon, I’ll see. Cheers & have a Merry one. 🎄

[@christophera4364]

I stayed in a vacation cabin near Hill City.

[@TristanEmond]

We've stayed at cabins all over the Hills. Makes for a great weekend getaway or stay cation. Hipe you enjoyed your visit.

[@davidwholly5209]

Judging from the description, this almost sounds like a hold out of "old time" America... the kind that us older folks remember growing up in and miss, since it doesn't seem to exist anymore in most areas. Especially the bit about people waving to you in the street. I am kind of wondering though; what are the summers typically like? It can't be any worse than the 7-8 month long, brain broiling summers here in Florida.

[@TristanEmond]

There is waving, but not every neighborhood has community parties and cookout kind of things. I casually know my neighbors and say hi and generally converse, but we still enjoy our privacy and let each other to do their thing. We do get some heat in the summer. This year has been crazy with 100 degree temps in June. We usually have a rainy, chillier June with a week or 2 of 100s more mid July and August. Usually hangs around 85-95. We also have lower humidity (and fewer mosquitos!) - so the dew point isn't nearly as bad as other places. We've been able to sit out on the deck the past few evenings and been comfortable. I'm still glad we have AC in the house though! 😂👌

[@Yoursistersazz]

Most of florida is NOT that hot.

[@davidwholly5209]

@@Yoursistersazz Maybe not in north Florida (was stationed there for a time in Mayport, it wasn't quite so bad), but in central and south Florida, where I've spent most of my time (20 years)... hell YES it is.

[@jamesharrison7114]

So how bike friendly is Rapid City? Bike lanes, racks and such in the Downtown area?

[@TristanEmond]

We have a bike path from west to east Rapid City - about 9 miles. There are bike lanes marked on a number of streets downtown (but not all), and I know there are a few bike racks around. We have a decent population of mountain bikers, so there are also a few bike stores and outfitters. There is probably more that could be done - I'm not a bike guy, so above is just what I've noticed. 👍😁

[@jamesharrison7114]

@@TristanEmond thanks for the reply

[@TristanEmond]

@@jamesharrison7114 Hopefully it was at least kinda helpful. :)

[@yahampathmarambe8879]

does Rapid city has public transits?

[@TristanEmond]

yes there is Rapid Ride which takes you to the main shopping areas all over town. I had one client in town that just rode the bus everywhere to check out the town. We also have taxis and lyfts.

[@yahampathmarambe8879]

@@TristanEmond good to hear. Thank you !

[@Meleeman011]

yup considering making a commitment to move there, my business has finally grown to the point where i can finally move to rapid city without it being too much of a financial burden, business friendly climate and weed. can't wait to leave kansas behind

[@TristanEmond]

Sounds awesome! When you have a time planned to visit or house hunt, hit me up! [e-mail]

[@TristanEmond]

@john walker we are finally getting the medical use in place. Recreational was passed by the popular vote but was killed due to how it was presented as a bill. I'm guessing it'll get proposed correctly soon and sent for a re-vote. We'll see what happens....

[@garym2879]

Any rough estimate on new residential construction costs per sq.ft. in the Rapid City & Black Hills area?

[@TristanEmond]

One custom builder in town is using the $300/sq ft number that includes the main floor finished but no basement finish. Then you add $50/sq ft for basement. I am working on another project that is more of a spec home scenario (choice of plans, colors, etc) that will end up being closer to $175 per square foot fully finished. They keep going up, though! 😳

[@goodygoodfilpflap1226]

Do you recommend Rapid City or Souix Falls to raise a family?

[@TristanEmond]

It really comes down to a personal preference....did you watch our RC vs SF video? I like the climate over here better, close to the Black Hills, fun activities. Sioux Falls is bigger and has more opportunities for employment (from my understanding) and an awesome downtown. The high school sports teams over there always seem to win, so there's that. 🤣 all depends on what you and your family are looking for the most.

[@goodygoodfilpflap1226]

@@TristanEmond Thank you for responding so quickly. I will check out that video.

[@dovygoodguy1296]

What you're talking about in the winter is relevant to younger folks, but what about us older, retirement age folks??

[@TristanEmond]

I have helped a number of people retire to the area. There are plenty of activities and centers around. However, the winters are a thing. Not everyone wants to worry about shoveling their steps all the time. There are ride services if you don't want to drive in the snow. Which is why many people retire down south where there is less of these things to worry about. 🤷‍♀

[@dovygoodguy1296]

@@TristanEmond I guess retirement age people in Sioux Falls and Rapid City try to leave for a while in the winter. How does winter in Rapid City compare with other places or states?

[@TristanEmond]

@@dovygoodguy1296 Yeah most people around here head down to AZ to escape the winter. We have a milder winter than Sioux Falls. We'll get snow, then it'll get to 40 degrees and melt, then get snow again. Usually 10 degrees warmer at times than east side of the state. It's also less humid here than other places so it's not as bone chilling cold. However we still get our weeks of below zero. It usually hangs around 20 degrees with moments of 40. The constant melting and freezing does create more ice...but it breaks up the winter. Plus there is always the wind - the issue isn't as much snow accumulation (until the spring snows after March) but visibility. The snow is light and dry and blows around, creating blizzards. I had a guy from NJ comment that is really isn't bad here based on his experiences of winter over there.

[@TristanEmond]

@@dovygoodguy1296 Check out these other weather related videos to get a feel for more: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gmHKlYJ6rdt0prM kzbin.info/www/bejne/f4WliYCKnM-JnNk kzbin.info/www/bejne/o6WVaXlnnJpojpI kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnS5pWCIbZybqbs

[@dovygoodguy1296]

@@TristanEmond Considering that South Dakota is considered an inhospitable cold climate it may not seem so bad with El Niño. Here in Calgary we get the Chinook winds but also had El Niño this year. I think we only had two weeks of weather below 0 fahrenheit.

[@cameronbrewer3966]

Looking for a place to retire.. Looking from Seattle..

[@TristanEmond]

Hi Cameron! A number of people love the area for retiring - we are kinda laid back, friendly, and have the services you would need. Main downside to retirees is the snow and cold. Make sure you watch my videos about the weather to get a feel for that. 👍😎

[@jamesb7651]

Don't import Seattle's socialism if you are awake enough to get out of King County, be smart enough to leave those attitudes behind

[@cameronbrewer3966]

@@jamesb7651 dude.. I can't get out of this crazy clown show fast enough. Grew up in a logging/fishing town. Don't want my tax dollars paying for this crap here anymore

[@natek3701]

@@jamesb7651 na I'll do what I want. Don't get triggered snowflake

[@johntracy2861]

UPDATE: 2023, Costs have gone through the roof because the Air Force is suppose to bring a new airplane to the area and property has increased 150%! Average 2/3 house is over 300,000. This might not sound bad to someone moving to the area, but when the average job is still less than $12 an hour, these prices are way out of reach! There are not a lot of jobs paying $70k a year!

[@TristanEmond]

True story, unfortunately. Affordable homes is something the powers that be are having conversations about it, but with the costs of materials and labor, not sure what can actually be done about it. 🤷‍♀ It's on my list to do an updated cost of living video this year.

[@johntracy2861]

@@TristanEmond The Navy took me away several years ago. We moved back in 1995 and then left again with the Navy in 2001. We are currently in Pensacola, FL and are thinking of moving back. But, with the cost of living more than it is here, it might be a tough sell! We come home (Box Elder is home) every year to visit family and have seen the many changes in the Rapid City area with all the new apartment and homes going up. I still feel the prices are out pacing the wages. Just saw a posting for the new Box Elder McDonalds hiring at $17/hr.

[@TristanEmond]

@@johntracy2861 yes wages have always been lacking vs housing. The shortage of workers the past couple years has helped the wages go up, but that didn't match the increase of housing. Even some of the smaller towns around here are just as expensive. At least you don't have blizzards in FL. 🤣

[@johntracy2861]

@@TristanEmond , HAHA! Good points and thank you for having a real conversation about our town! Best of luck in the new year! John

[@TristanEmond]

@@johntracy2861 Thank you! To you as well. No point in pretending things are all soft and fluffy when there are issues that need to be addressed. :)

[@nkley1]

Low riders....”Wait...are those still popular?” That was too funny! 😂😂

[@TristanEmond]

🤣😅😂 I felt it was a valid question. Can't say I'm always keeping up with things. 😎 thanks for commenting and laughing.

[@kets4443]

Long winters? Snow? That's my kind of place! Hello from England

[@TristanEmond]

Wow - thanks for watching across the pond. 😎 We don't like to be warm all the time over here. 🤣

[@ewetoob137]

Thank you for this video. Was there over 30 yrs ago and now considering "where to retire".... Rapid City could be nice!

[@TristanEmond]

It's a beautiful place! We do get snow and cold...so make sure you're good with that. 😁🧊

[@YouTubeRealtor]

Love this video idea, great job, are you getting leads from this?

[@TristanEmond]

😁👍💯🕺

[@TristanEmond]

@@danskdna8550 Thanks for saying that - I've tried hard to tell it like it is. I appreciate you noticing. 😁

[@williampankratz600]

I could have bought a home there a few years ago and been really happy there Some things happened that changed not just my economy , but everyone's economy has gotten a bit tougher

[@TristanEmond]

It has been quite a ride!

[@burn2406]

Con #5 is a pro in my book!

[@TristanEmond]

Right? Sometimes it's not too bad to be away from lots of people. :)

[@ebgbjo2025]

Unfortunately, I don't think it will be too far in the future that SD is going to end up with too many populated places even outside of the current cities.

[@user-zn1cq3en8p]

Spent two weeks in South Dakota in May 2021, one of them in Rapid City. Every neighborhood seemed to be clustered with your neighbors just a few feet away. It was all so claustrophobic. Do you have neighborhoods where a homesite has an acre or two?

[@TristanEmond]

Yes inside city limits you have an average of .20-.25 acre lots. Less if you are closer to downtown. Once you get into subdivisions outside of town (along Nemo Road, W hwy 44, north along Elk Creek Road, etc) they tend to have bigger lots. There are also bigger acreages in SW side of Rapid City. But...more land = more money! 😀😬

[@gregdelaney119]

Thanks for this video. I've lived only in northern Minnesota and Wisconsin so snow, cold winters, and road repairs are "the usual". Why would someone almost 64 years of age want to move to Rapid City? I'm not being snarky; it's my way of asking about retired people (of which I am one) and the pros and cons for someone like me. Just exploring. :)

[@TristanEmond]

The weather is usually the first consideration...but since that's not an issue for you 😉, pros would be access to great parks, fishing, and other outdoor activities. I've seen plenty of senior citizen centers where they host activities. And a general friendliness of people, as long as you hold the same. Cons are lots of Hills and split level homes, higher than national average health care costs (little competition is my guess) and crazy weather swings and patterns.

[@markpuente2256]

Not sure how to contact you? Love your video and would like to look at property there

[@TristanEmond]

[e-mail] or send a text to 605-391-7086. 👍

[@joshdossantos]

5:33, that’s not Julia Roberts 😅

[@TristanEmond]

Wait - what??? I've always thought it was! When I Googled "julia roberts meme" that's what came up. 🤷‍♂️

[@joshdossantos]

@@TristanEmond yes I know, that’s what people use to search for the meme, but it’s actually a Brazilian actress on a tela novela in Brazil. I know because my parents are Brazilian and we had Brazilian tv channels at home. Btw Me and my family are moving to rapid city in March-April of 2021. Going to Ellsworth Afb

[@TristanEmond]

@@joshdossantos They could be twins! That is bizarre - the things you learn on KZbin! 🤣 Hey that's great. Hopefully more homes on the market in Spring. Check out my website if you haven't already to check out homes around. I'll be here!

[@prodiptochowdhury5935]

Nice video! Just FYI, that confused lady on the math symbol meme isn't Julia Roberts. Her name is Renata Sorrah. She's a Brazilian actress.

[@TristanEmond]

Thanks for watching!! Yes I've been told of that error before. 🤣 I had no clue...she looks so much like her.

[@pokey1168]

Do you handle rentals? ;-)

[@TristanEmond]

Sorry I don't. But I do have a page on my site w links to get you started. Www.rapidhomesonline.com/rapid-city-rentals 👍

[@billbirkett7166]

Hey, I was curious about rental property rates, I'm interested to see if moving out to Rapid City could be a possibility for me. What would a standard 1 or 2 bedroom cost me? A year or two after moving there, I'd be interested in getting my first house. I work remotely and make a salary of around $70k. I take it that I could probably afford a decent house on that income? Thanks for any tips.

[@TristanEmond]

Hi Bill. My son just got into a 1 bedroom apartment on the 3rd floor for $800/mth plus utilities. If you are looking for a house, you are closer to the $1200/mth range to START...and that's probably a small space. I would certainly think you should be able to get into something with your income when you are ready to purchase, but of course that's up the lender since there are so many other factors included. I have lender recommendations to share with you and here is my site with rental links: www.rapdhomesonline.com/rapid-city-rentals

[@billbirkett7166]

@@TristanEmond Okay, thanks, I appreciate it! When I visited the Black Hills region I was very surprised because I did not expect South Dakota to have such beautiful scenery, it looks like it would be a wonderful little city to live in.

[@TristanEmond]

@@billbirkett7166 yes we've been discovered. 🤣 and so much different beauty - plains, badlands, river breaks, all within a few hours of Rapid City. Some of the small SD towns are quaint and quiet. It's a great place to be. As long as the cold doesn't scare you away. 😳🤣

[@thisjayepro2496]

I live there

[@TristanEmond]

Hola!

[@matthewsantillanes194]

I'm here in Albuquerque, NM. Which is literally like prison with the lockdowns. We're in the second "two week lockdown". But also still in the first "two weeks to slow the spread" lockdown that never actually ended. I LOATHE the masks!!! SD has really inspired me and we're strongly considering moving the family there. All we want is our personal freedom back, good education systems for my baby girl, a safe city, lots of space, and of course the outdoors. Thanks for making this video. So far it's either Souix Falls or Rapid City.

[@TristanEmond]

Sounds great! Either city should get you what you are looking for! I hope to do a Rapid City vs Sioux Falls video at some point. 😎 Note that even though there are no state wide mask mandates and shutdowns, some cities are putting mask orders into place (in public places mostly). Sioux Falls has one and Rapid City just voted it in last week. Not a huge deal, but wanted to make sure you were aware!! 👍

[@matthewsantillanes194]

@@TristanEmond Wow. nevermind on that then

[@matthewsantillanes194]

no reason to trade one bs for another. I'll wait to see what Rapid City does

[@TristanEmond]

@@matthewsantillanes194 🤷‍♂️ Yeah it is what it is I guess. Sounds like it's only in public indoor spaces where keeping the distancing isn't possible. At least the restaurants are staying open.

[@czernya307]

@@TristanEmond I was in Sioux Falls last week and nobody wore a mask outside. The only store where I wore a mask was Costco and when I toured the Pettigrew House. Most stores request the mask but nobody says anything if you don't. The 3 of us were bare-faced in Pomegranate's and had a nice chat with the masked young cashier.

[@novastariha8043]

Love love the “remote” con Go to Denver is right stay away from SD Big spendy stores

[@TristanEmond]

Some people love those stores! 🤣

[@kevinaalberts9251]

home of a Devil horse statue and Evil satanic airport with under ground base that's goes a cross the Nation in many directions!

[@Pancito49]

No bicycling, bummer.

[@TristanEmond]

There is lots of mountain biking, a few biking lanes downtown, and the bike path from one side of the city to the other. But you're probably gonna want a car to get around - everything is pretty spread out.

[@u2fkeys665]

I'm thinking of buying property there

[@TristanEmond]

Here to help when you are ready! :)

[@ganymeade5151]

What is the possibility of a White Christmas?

[@TristanEmond]

Usually pretty good! But this year was weird. It was 50 degrees. We were walking around without coats! It's back to snow and cold now though, the way it should be. 😂

[@jhoellopez3612]

you have a beautiful family, those girls are really cute congratulations I suscribed to your channel regards from Venezuela I'm dreaming someday to live there in SD. keep going upload more videos like this show me the downtown please.

[@TristanEmond]

Aw thank you! Yes a downtown showcase is on the list for early this year. Keep watching out for it. Thanks for watching from so far away!

[@scottrobbins2093]

Pro # 7 Governor Kristi Noem... That's why you have so much freedom

[@TristanEmond]

100%

[@scottrobbins2093]

@@TristanEmond So there's no health food stores in Rapid City at all? Not even Mom and Pops? Thanks

[@TristanEmond]

@@scottrobbins2093 There's a few local ones that are really good. Breadroot Coop, The Market, & Staple and Spice. All have a collection of foods, supplements and other organic products. There's also a GNC, Nutrishop and similar type of stores if you are looking for that type of health food and supplement store.

[@scottrobbins2093]

@@TristanEmond that's pretty good information. My wife and I will be traveling up there this summer to look around. We're ready to retire but not happy with the way things are going in Arizona. Might make a free state like South Dakota a good move for us. Will use Arizona for winter use. I'll let you know if we get serious about buying...

[@TristanEmond]

@@scottrobbins2093 Yep. Gotta check things out. Let me know when you get here this summer. I'd love to meet you, show you around and send you off exploring. :)

[@theirishbros.5455]

There the joke that there are only two seasons in South Dakota, winter and construction. It's especially irritating how they are NEVER DONE WITH OMAHA. I swear they can't go to or three years without tearing it up again.

[@TristanEmond]

Right? And then I90...you never know which exit might be closed tomorrow! 😳🤣

[@theirishbros.5455]

@@TristanEmond yeah

[@kerriwilson7732]

Love to visit, from PEI Canada.

[@TristanEmond]

PEI is on my wife's list to visit as well. We enjoy our Black Hills!

[@kerriwilson7732]

@@TristanEmond Atlantic Canada is a great place to visit, come when you can; the exchange rate is your friend:-) Checked out real estate prices of Rapid City online after watching your clip. Surprisingly robust! Is your local job market the driver, or ?

[@TristanEmond]

@@kerriwilson7732 A number of things - we have a trade radius where the smaller communities of western SD come for services, medical and fun; Ellsworth air force base has a huge economic impact; tourism has kept people finding us and some love it here and move. Somehow things just seem to stay ok! :)

[@theyodaiam6964]

My husband and I are looking to move to South Dakota as soon as we can sell our house. Do you help with rentals? We want to rent for now until we get settled and can pick a permanent place. We are in California right now but are not those kind of Californians. 😁

[@TristanEmond]

I've talked with many "not that kind" Californians. 😎 I don't help directly with rentals, but check out my site for rental links: www.rapidhomesonline.com/rapid-city-rentals/ Don't be afraid to hit me up w questions about the area via email. [e-mail]. Happy to help how I can! 👍

[@JoshuaBautista1409]

Ha, road construction reminds me of my last 7 years in Austin, TX. It is sooooo annoying that, no matter how hard you try, it is almost impossible not to come across with road work.

[@TristanEmond]

Right? It's nuts... 🤣

[@lisanoetzelmann2763]

@@TristanEmond Well at least you can get on the Interstate to get across town, provided you are on the north side and you can find an on ramp and off ramp that aren't being worked on :)

[@TristanEmond]

@@lisanoetzelmann2763 OMG right? I still can never remember which ramps are open and which ones aren't. Pretty sure once I get it figured out they'll change it. 😂

[@blueberrypie6]

Pro - Awesome Governor.

[@TristanEmond]

She ain't been afraid to stand her ground. 😎

[@RayT70]

Liked and subscribed

[@TristanEmond]

Awesome! Thank you so much!

[@jamesheath5825]

This state is red lets keep it that way

[@natek3701]

Na. Don't get triggered snowflake

[@LCROSIER97]

I’m one of those “not one of those Californians” searching for a new place to call home. I’m considering Rapid City and Soiux Falls. I was wondering about the crime rates. It seems from my research that despite Rapid City having a much smaller population, it has much worse crime stats than Soiux falls. Do you have any info/insight on this?

[@TristanEmond]

I have to be careful taking about crime rates since I'm not allowed to steer you in any direction. That said, my response to the crime rate in Rapid City is that it doesn't feel like the numbers project. There are communities I know I wouldn't drive down in metro areas. I don't have that same issue in Rapid City. I can't provide any insight on Sioux Falls since I haven't lived there. 🤷‍♂️😎

[@gme10955]

Freedom!

[@TristanEmond]

❤💪💯

[@johnquinn348]

Wind blows 24/7 !!!

[@TristanEmond]

There was that one day... 😂

[@willymags123]

I can't understand why people put long Winters as a con that is the whole reason why I'm moving there I love winter it is my favorite season I hate summer I wish we could skip over summer

[@TristanEmond]

Wow that is pretty rare. 🤣I really missed winter this year as it was milder than ever. But usually about March I'm ready for Spring.

[@willymags123]

@@TristanEmond they're actually pages dedicated to people like me who love winter and hate summer LOL there are a lot of us many many of us

[@TristanEmond]

@@willymags123 haha everyone is different!

[@MrKikkomon]

Pot holes ?? You kidding right ... your roads are frigging beautiful compared to Oahu road...

[@TristanEmond]

Good to hear. 😂 Good to know we aren't on the bottom of that chart... Thanks for watching!! 💪

[@MichelleNovalee]

That confused math lady meme is not Julia Roberts. Google it. But don’t worry, apparently it’s a common misconception.

[@TristanEmond]

Someone else told me that as well. I had no idea!! 😅 I did google Julia Robert's meme to find it, but didn't delve into any of the articles. Crazy similarity!

[@colehochhalter8608]

Lets go Mines

[@TristanEmond]

@@colehochhalter8608 👍🕺❤️

[@aarongarcia9880]

I think #5 con is a pro? I like to be away from people.

[@TristanEmond]

So many people agree with you. 😂👍

[@jesseruiz8411]

Can’t wait to leave SoCal nonsense and I’m pretty sure Rapid City is going to be it ! I appreciate how the culture seems lol. Hoping I can find a solid IT job out there.

[@knucklehoagies]

Don’t bring your liberal California nonsense with you. Remember why you left.

[@jesseruiz8411]

J P Ya I get that I’ve heard it enough, leaving for a reason. Already can tell wherever I go I’ll be saying I’m from California the least amount of times as possible. There’s a very few and far between of us level minded people here left

[@TristanEmond]

I've heard that quite a bit! Most everyone I've talked with wants to reboot here and incorporate with what we have. IT jobs may be limited...we have few "big" companies - Black Hills Energy, Monument Hospital are the best options for you to explore. Happy to help out how I can!

[@SeraphSong42]

Just dont bring liberalism and ruin this town.

[@jrgee08]

Visited just this past September, its a nice bigger town with a small town feel. There is something to do outdoors everywhere and the sights are amazing. However, I found that the people there were a bit annoyed with out of towners and the raging drunk driver that came flying out of one of the gas stations while flicking my family off and yelling obscenities because I blew my horn at him for darting out in front of me was a nice touch.

[@TristanEmond]

The small town feel and Black Hills are what we love about the area! Sorry you talked with the people that didn't understand and appreciate the fact that we are in a tourist area and out of towners are huge for our local economy and way of life. Glad you enjoyed your stay and hope the idiots don't keep you away! :)

[@jrgee08]

@@TristanEmond idiots won’t keep me away. A few bad apples doesn’t mean everyone is like that. Honestly would mind moving somewhere around that area when the times right.

[@TristanEmond]

@@jrgee08 Sounds great! Hopefully we'll see things level out here....but that might take some time from my perspective. 🤷‍♀️

[@Yoursistersazz]

Very small town

[@rodolfo9116]

Are there any Hispanic or African American people in North or South Dakota?

[@TristanEmond]

Yes - just not a huge percentage. There are communities of both in pockets around the state. I can't speak much for ND though.

[@novastariha8043]

Adorable girls I did subscribe!!!

[@Metabrotropic]

Thank you all for gentrifying the only home I've known my entire life. I can't afford to live here anymore. And the Black Hills can't support the population influx.

[@phmiii]

The girls are too Cute!

[@TristanEmond]

They were SO excited to be a part of the video. They were like, "what made you decide to become a KZbinr?" 🤣

[@Delta17842]

Potholes are us..... 😂..... So AKA Colorado lol

[@TristanEmond]

@@Delta17842 they're out there!! 🤣

[@SticksAandstonesBozo]

Man I wish that KZbin wasn’t just flooded with real estate agents making it impossible to get real info on a place your looking at relocating to. Does this really generate that many leads ?

[@LaziFaux]

I live in Arizona and found Tristan through KZbin. Hes been very helpful to me and my family, quick to answer any questions we've had, and we are closing on our property in the next few weeks with him. So yes people find it helpful, and yes it generates leads.

[@robwills5687]

I just moved to Rapid City and I chose Tristan as my realtor. That said, I can understand your perspective. It's hard to find real information about the area. I visited here last year, watched many KZbin videos of Tristan, travel bloggers and crimegrade.org to name a few sources of info. I also created zillow searches and a bhmls accounts to track the market for myself. I found Tristan genuine and in the end, you should do what you feel comfortable doing. Feel free to ask me questions.

[@SticksAandstonesBozo]

@@LaziFaux I’ve spent 30 years in real estate and I get it. But the issue I have is all you can find is realtors with an agenda to make money instead of locals saying what the reality is of a place good or bad. If you search anything about rapid city it’s just 2-3 real estate guys or gals who are copying every other agent across the country who is doing the exact same videos in each market. I’m moving there in a few months and I’m a little hesitant to use any agent that does but I’m open to see I’m wrong about someone.

[@LaziFaux]

@@SticksAandstonesBozo he met up with me when we took a vacation out there in September and drove me around town for about 2 hours and answered all my questions. And has been our boots on ground guy while we looked for homes these last 2 months. Very responsive and helpful. I agree with you though, its annoying filtering through it all.

[@TristanEmond]

Hey sorry I missed your comment! :) Yes KZbin has been growing as a popular avenue to deliver content to buyers and sellers. We do share "what works" with everyone - which is why you'll see the same types of videos in each market. I've tried to keep it as open and honest as possible - even scaring a few people away from my comments about the weather and the present state of the market. I think if you watch enough of my videos you'll get that feel. Also you can check out the testimonial videos for more about who I am as a person. I'm happy to meet up with you and see if we jive with no obligations whatsoever. 👍

[@TommyGunnThompson]

W H O L E S O M E

[@ticnatz]

You can't scare me off.....

[@TristanEmond]

🤣🤣👍👍💯

[@samueltorres8873]

Is it kind of haunting knowing the native America lived and sided there ?

[@THEBLACKANARCHIST]

Are there black people in south Dakota lol

[@TristanEmond]

Sure! They are pretty surrounded by white people, though. 🤣 The ones I know are pretty cool people.

[@natewrites7803]

Yes, please all move here. Housing rates have soared over the past three years. Thanks for ruining it. In a year or two, it will be completely unaffordable for the average working person. Oh, and note that there aren't any high paying jobs out here outside of medicine. Enjoy!

[@cabouhre413]

lots of homeless and murders, time to move.

[@TristanEmond]

We've certainly had our share, esp recently. 😢 Sounds like that is all over, talking with others lately.

[@organicbiscuit]

Julia Roberts? 😂

[@TristanEmond]

Yeah apparently I was wrong about that. 😂 It looked like her to me!! 🤷‍♂️

[@gregorysandoz1293]

Better own your own business as jobs few and far between and pay is poverty.

[@OrieCipollaro]

Used to be cheap but during the Plandemic all the jackasses from liberal cities moved in and jacked the prices up and the natives and drugs are wrecking the place! We were 90% on our way both had jobs set up and money down but we pulled out for now and settled in Vegas. I’m not saying it’s completely out but for now I’m gonna wait. The property prices are so outta wack from the average salaries buying now isn’t worth it. And yes hail! You’d think the rental car companies at the airport would have covered parking but they don’t!? Nice airport but not enough flights in or out makes flying very expensive. I’d love a few acres in Piedmont,deadwood,spearfish or Hill city but now greedy landowners and HOAs are wrecking the vibe they just want Mc Mansions gotta wait till things calm down!

[@TristanEmond]

Sorry it didn't work out for you right away. Yeah prices went nuts, that's for sure. Fortunately it has relaxed some, but I doubt prices will get back to pre-pandemic levels. But who knows - sometimes you can find a good deal on some land that's been sitting awhile...unfortunately many have those darn covenants. :) Good luck to you!

[@jeffbeaird747]

Don’t move here it’s horrible... we don’t need anymore “outsiders”

[@besstl3434]

What do you mean?

[@ttc99wilson]

@@besstl3434 probably means it's great and they don't want anyone moving there and driving up prices and bringing liberal votes

[@pablodiablo7655]

@@ttc99wilson No. He means what he says. Rapid City is horrible!