Paralegal Salary in South Dakota

How Much Does a Paralegal Make in South Dakota?

The typical Paralegal salary in South Dakota ranges from $39,200 to $72,800, with the national median at $56,000.

Assist lawyers with legal research, document preparation, and case management Your actual take-home pay as a Paralegal in South Dakota depends on:

• Your specific salary or hourly rate
• Federal income tax (10% to 37% progressive rates)
• FICA taxes (7.65% for Social Security and Medicare)
• Local taxes (if applicable in your city)
• Health insurance and retirement contributions
• Cost of living in your specific city or region

Taxes for Paralegal in South Dakota

As a Paralegal working in South Dakota, you'll pay the following taxes on your income:

Federal Income Tax

Everyone in the US pays federal income tax, including Paralegal professionals. The federal tax system uses progressive tax brackets ranging from 10% to 37%, meaning you pay different rates on different portions of your income.

FICA Taxes

Social Security and Medicare taxes (FICA) total 7.65% of your gross income:

• Social Security: 6.2% (on first $168,600 in 2025)
• Medicare: 1.45% (no income limit)
• Additional Medicare: 0.9% on income over $200,000

South Dakota Has No State Income Tax

Great news! South Dakota is one of only 9 states with no state income tax. This means you keep more of your Paralegal salary compared to working in states like California (up to 13.3% tax) or New York (up to 10.9% tax).

Example: A Paralegal earning $56,000 in South Dakota saves approximately $2,800 to $5,600 per year in state income tax compared to high-tax states.

Cost of Living for Paralegal in South Dakota

Your Paralegal salary goes further or shorter depending on the cost of living in your area of South Dakota. Key factors include:

• Housing: Rent or mortgage payments (often 25-35% of take-home pay)
• Transportation: Car payments, gas, insurance, or public transit
• Food: Groceries and dining out
• Healthcare: Insurance premiums, copays, prescriptions
• Utilities: Electric, gas, water, internet

A $56,000 Paralegal salary in a low-cost area of South Dakota provides significantly more buying power than the same salary in an expensive metro area.

Paralegal Salary Examples in South Dakota

Here's what different Paralegal salary levels look like in South Dakota:

Entry-Level Paralegal ($39,200)

• Gross annual salary: $39,200
• Federal tax: ~$4,704
• FICA: ~$2,999
• Approximate take-home: $29,400

Median Paralegal ($56,000)

• Gross annual salary: $56,000
• Federal tax: ~$8,960
• FICA: ~$4,284
• Approximate take-home: $40,320

Experienced Paralegal ($72,800)

• Gross annual salary: $72,800
• Federal tax: ~$16,016
• FICA: ~$5,569
• Approximate take-home: $47,320

Calculate your exact take-home pay: These are estimates. For precise calculations based on your specific situation, use our South Dakota salary calculator.

Compare Paralegal Salaries Across States

The same Paralegal salary can result in very different take-home pay depending on the state:

• No-tax states (TX, FL, NV, TN, WA): Higher take-home pay
• Low-tax states (AZ, IN, ND, PA): Moderate take-home pay
• High-tax states (CA, NY, NJ, HI): Lower take-home pay

A $56,000 Paralegal salary in California results in about $2,800 to $5,600 less take-home pay per year compared to the same salary in South Dakota.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Paralegal salary in South Dakota?

The average Paralegal salary in South Dakota varies by experience, location within the state, and employer. The national median is $56,000, with typical South Dakota salaries ranging from $39,200 to $72,800.

How much does a Paralegal make after taxes in South Dakota?

After federal taxes, FICA, and typical deductions, a Paralegal earning $56,000 in South Dakota takes home approximately $39,200 to $42,000 per year.

Is South Dakota a good state for Paralegal professionals?

Yes! South Dakota's lack of state income tax means Paralegal professionals keep more of their earnings. Combined with cost of living and career opportunities, South Dakota can be very attractive.

Next Steps

Ready to see your exact Paralegal take-home pay in South Dakota?

Use our South Dakota salary calculator →

Or compare Paralegal salaries across different states to find the best location for your career.