Recommended Statewide
38
Facilities graded B or better with zero fines
Best Nursing Homes in South Dakota
38 of 192 nursing homes (20%) meet our strict criteria. The national average is 31%.
#44
of 50 states
38 recommended · 104 avoid · 72 cities · data
National Rank
#44
Below Average
Total Facilities
192
across 72 cities
Facilities to Avoid
104
82 Grade F
$5,396,126 in combined fines
Best City
Aberdeen
50% recommended
State Average
2.7
★
CMS star rating
South Dakota vs National Average
| Metric | South Dakota | National | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| % Recommended | 20% | 31% | ✗ Worse |
| Average CMS Stars | 2.7 | 3.0 | ✗ Worse |
| Staff Turnover | 50% | 44% | ✗ Worse |
| RN Hours/Day | 0.65 | 0.75 | ✗ Worse |
| Avg Deficiencies | 8.5 | 7.5 | ✗ Worse |
Data from CMS Care Compare as of . National averages based on all 15,000 U.S. nursing homes.
The South Dakota Reality
Nursing home care in South Dakota presents a mixed landscape for families seeking quality care for their loved ones. With a national rank of #44 out of 50 states, the overall assessment of nursing home facilities in South Dakota is concerning. Only 20% of the state's 192 facilities are recommended, significantly lower than the national average of 31%. Families may find this statistic alarming, especially when considering the implications of choosing a facility that may not meet high standards of care.
Despite the challenges, there are noteworthy options available in South Dakota, particularly in cities like Aberdeen, where 50% of facilities are recommended. The top-rated facility, AVERA SISTER JAMES CARE CENTER in Yankton, boasts an impressive Trust Score of 93, indicative of its commitment to quality care. However, families should remain vigilant; there are 104 facilities that are advised to be avoided, including 82 that received F grades. The total fines across the state amount to $5,396,126, raising concerns about the quality and compliance of several establishments.
When searching for nursing home care in South Dakota, families should prioritize several key factors. Begin by examining the Trust Scores and CMS star ratings of potential facilities, as these metrics can provide insight into the level of care provided. Additionally, be sure to check for any history of fines, as this can indicate past compliance issues. Taking the time to research and visit facilities can significantly impact the quality of care your loved one receives, making it essential to weigh all options carefully.
Quality Trend
Is South Dakota improving or declining?
2024
2025
2026
→
South Dakota quality has remained stable.
Cities Ranked by Quality
Click any city to see detailed facility recommendations
Statewide Warning Patterns
Common issues found across South Dakota nursing homes
High Number of Facilities with F Grades
In South Dakota, 82 out of 192 nursing homes have received F grades, indicating significant quality and safety issues.
Facilities to Avoid
There are 104 facilities in South Dakota recommended to avoid, indicating a significant portion of homes may not meet quality care standards.
Substantial Total Fines
With total fines amounting to $5,396,126, South Dakota nursing homes face notable financial penalties, reflecting ongoing regulatory challenges.
Top 10 Nursing Homes in South Dakota
Highest-scoring facilities statewide
-
1
AVERA SISTER JAMES CARE CENTER
Yankton
93 A -
2
93 A
-
3
93 A
-
4
93 A
-
5
AVERA BRADY HEALTH AND REHAB
Mitchell
90 A -
6
90 A
-
7
Bethesda Home
Webster
90 A -
8
90 A
-
9
PRAIRIE HEIGHTS HEALTHCARE
Aberdeen
90 A -
10
90 A
Care Type Availability
Where to find specific care in South Dakota
Memory Care
30 facilities
Best options in Aberdeen
Short-Term Rehab
80 facilities
Highest success in Aberdeen
Medicaid Beds
150 facilities
Avg waitlist: 2-4 months
Ventilator / Complex Care
5 facilities
Limited availability
Cost Overview
Private Room
$7,500/mo
Near national average
Semi-Private
$6,500/mo
Medicaid Rate
$165/day
75% of recommended facilities accept Medicaid
Frequently Asked Questions
How does South Dakota compare to neighboring states?
South Dakota ranks 44th nationally in terms of nursing home care quality, which is lower than several neighboring states. For instance, North Dakota and Minnesota typically rank higher, indicating that residents in those states may have access to better nursing home facilities and services.
What percentage of nursing homes in South Dakota meet quality criteria?
Only about 20% of nursing homes in South Dakota meet the recommended quality criteria, significantly lower than the national average of 31%. This statistic highlights the need for improvements in nursing home care within the state.
Which city in South Dakota offers the best nursing home care?
Aberdeen is considered the best city in South Dakota for nursing home care, offering facilities that are more likely to meet quality standards compared to other cities in the state. Residents in Aberdeen may find a greater selection of quality services and care options.
What is the cost of a private room in a South Dakota nursing home?
The cost of a private room in a South Dakota nursing home averages around $8,000 per month. This figure can vary based on the specific facility and the level of care required.