Reviews & Comments
Rapid City, SD
The gap between statistics and reality.... -
8/4/2007I've been a full-time resident here for six years, and I'm astonished at how favorable the statistics on this web site make the city sound - partly because the stats don't include pay. As per a recent study, South Dakota has the lowest pay in the nation, so many persons must work two jobs to survive. Professional jobs are also in extremely short supply here, and I know many highly-skilled, experienced persons working as call center reps or in entry-level clerical jobs. Those considering moving here should also understand that Rapid City is extremely conservative, both politically and socially; the majority of residents harbor deep suspicions about - and even outright hostility toward - Democrats and New Agers. And no one should ever move here without realizing the profound impact the Sturgis bike rally has. Year-round, the biker mentality shapes and defines Rapid City, and each August, bike noise creates a loud roar, night and day, that goes on for 1-3 weeks. The bikers often travel in packs of up to twenty, and since they're often drunk,local residents drive with white knuckles for three weeks and pray this won't be the year they accidentally kill someone riding in their blind spot. Prospective residents should also check the Rapid City Police Department's web site for information on the crime rate, which is higher per capita than L.A., NYC, and Chicago. Having warned you about the negatives...on the plus side, prospective residents will find the Black Hills area has breathtaking natural beauty, mild winters, hot, sunny summers, and lots of wide open spaces.