2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Rapid City, SD vs Fairbanks, AK

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Fairbanks older or younger than people in Rapid City?
- The Median Age in Fairbanks is 9.9 years younger than in Rapid City.

Are housing costs cheaper in Fairbanks or Rapid City?
- Fairbanks housing costs are 5.8% less expensive than Rapid City housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Fairbanks or Rapid City?
- The average commute for residents of Fairbanks is 2.7 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Rapid City.

Things to do in Rapid City?
Rapid City, South Dakota is a vibrant city located in the southwestern corner of the United States. Home to attractions such as Bear Country USA and Reptile Gardens, visitors can explore outdoor activities and historical sites when visiting Rapid City. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues such as The Journey Museum & Learning Center and Art Alley. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Rapid City has something for everyone!

Things to do in Fairbanks?
Fairbanks AK rests close Arctic Circle famed principally for its natural sites such as Chena River State Recreation Area where visitors may take part in different water sports or simply enjoy some peace & tranquility while walking along sandy beaches!

 Rapid City, SDFairbanks, AKUnited States
 Population  Unlock33,018329,725,481
 Median Income$58,072  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock28.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$292,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.2%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time15.68  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Rapid City    31 Reviews

I have lived in this city for the last three and half years and I can't stand it!! Let me spell it out for you, but to be fair, let me give you the Pros first:  More

   |    Reply

Unless you made your pension out of state or already bought a home you can't afford to liver there. Rapid City is gray in winter.  More

   |    Reply

Over 4 years ago

I've lived in the city 5 years a loved  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Rapid City

Reviews for Fairbanks    20 Reviews

I have lived in the Fairbanks area for about 25 years and have become very comfortable with the community and the lifestyle here. That said, retirement is fast  More

   |    Reply

Over 14 years ago

Comments about Fairbanks, both positive and negative, are of interest to me. Was in Fairbanks this past March [and north on Cleary Summit] and fell in love with the  More

   |    Reply

Over 15 years ago

I came to Alaska 15 years ago on an adventure and first lived in Juneau, which I LOVED and then moved to Eagle River, which I loved and now live in Fairbanks! I do not  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Fairbanks


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.