Ellsworth AFB

If you're considering a move to the Ellsworth Air Force Base (AFB) area, you're in for a real treat! This region offers breathtaking scenery and plenty of recreation spots to enjoy while you get to know your new home. With that said, moving can still be a hassle—which is why we've created this comprehensive guide to help make the transition easier for you.

With a recent influx of Military members due to orders given, this South Dakota destination has rapidly become a hot spot for VA home buyers, retirees, or those simply looking to relocate near the base.

Ellsworth AFB notably serves approximately 3,300 members of the military, 3,700 family members, 8,100 retirees, and 720 civilians—ensuring that this spot provides ample opportunity for employment and connection within the community.

Living near Ellsworth AFB not only offers a desirable lifestyle, but also affords residents two significant benefits—no state tax, and the cost of living which is lower than the U.S. average.

Where is Ellsworth AFB?

Ellsworth AFB is a hidden oasis in South Dakota, located just 12 miles northeast of Rapid City and north of the town of Box Elder. This is one of the best places to live in South Dakota, as it puts you just an hour away from five stunning national parks and monuments.

From checking off your bucket list adventures at Mount Rushmore to star-gazing in the Badlands, Ellsworth AFB could not be in a more affluent and picturesque location. Throughout this guide, we will discuss the area in more detail, and provide insight into why this has become a world-renowned destination.

Finding a Place to Live Near Ellsworth AFB

When it comes to choosing a place to live near Ellsworth AFB you'll be hard-pressed to find a better option than a home in Rapid City for sale. Located at the gateway to Mt. Rushmore, this metropolitan area serves as a hub for one of the most legendary regions in America.

When you decide to put down roots here, you're gaining so much more than just access to Ellsworth, you are becoming part of a community that is brimming with life and personality. Homes here typically have spacious lot sizes, jaw-dropping views, and the peacefulness that comes with living in the prairie.

If you love the idea of embracing this iconic destination and calling it home, then think about settling down in Rapid City today.

The Rich History

Ellsworth AFB is one of the oldest and most significant US Air Force installations in the Great Plains region. With its rich history, it's no wonder this establishment has been an important part of South Dakota for over seven decades. It all began in 1876 when a group of gold prospectors came to the Black Hills—that's when Rapid City was born.

The city became an epicenter for transportation, education, commerce, and culture soon afterward. In 1941, Rapid City Army Air Base was established and soon renamed Ellsworth AFB in honor of Brigadier General Richard E. Ellsworth who had served as commander of the Strategic Reconnaissance Wing.

This strategic location served as a training site for B-17 Flying Fortress Units and to this day continues to uphold its mission of supporting missions from across the United States.

Housing Market Near Ellsworth AFB

The housing market in Rapid City and surrounding areas near Ellsworth AFB is very attractive given its affordability compared to the national average, diverse lifestyle opportunities, and the presence of quality schools.

Rapid City has a variety of housing options, but the most noticeable will be single-family homes both new and more established. You'll also find a few townhomes, condos, and apartments scattered throughout the city.

The cost of living here is much lower than the national average but still allows for prime access to all that Rapid City has to offer. The median home price in this area is around $340K which makes this area ideal for first-time homebuyers, move up buyers and anyone in between.

Amenities Near Ellsworth AFB

Living near Ellsworth AFB means you have access to a wealth of amenities, making your life easy and convenient. You'll find that there are plenty of grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops, and entertainment venues close by. For some retail therapy, check out Uptown Rapid and its adjacent shopping center.

If you're looking to stay fit while living in the area, there are plenty of gyms, yoga studios, and running trails to take advantage of. There's also a fantastic selection of parks, golf courses, and recreational areas for those who prefer to stay active outdoors.

Additional local amenities include:

Year-Round Weather Near Ellsworth AFB

Who wouldn't love the year-round South Dakota sunshine near Ellsworth Air Force Base? With an average of 226 sunny days per year, you will never miss out on the chance to explore the beauty of your surroundings. July's highs are usually around 85 degrees Fahrenheit while January's lows are typically around 14 degrees Fahrenheit.

Rainfall is significantly lower than the U.S. average with only 18 inches of rain annually. Rapid City averages around 38 inches of snow per year, however, due to its slightly higher elevation snowfall can vary across the base's properties. Whether you are looking for mild weather or to experience a white Christmas—Ellsworth AFB has it all.

Community Atmosphere Near Ellsworth AFB

If there is something that sets living near Ellsworth AFB apart, it's the community atmosphere and all that it entails. Not only will you be part of an active military base but also a vibrant civilian population. This area is filled with many people who call Rapid City home and embrace their culture through Native American roots, classic western heritage, and progressive art scene.

Residents will oftentimes find themselves attending festivals, art shows, and other community events that celebrate the diversity of this area. From the eclectic restaurant scene to historic attractions like the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Main Street Square—living near Ellsworth AFB will never be dull.

Some of the exciting festivals and events held near Ellsworth AFB include:

Business & Jobs Near Ellsworth AFB

Ellsworth AFB is undeniably a hub of innovation and advancement. With the recent development of the B-21 raider, there has been a surge in economic opportunity throughout the area. Not only is the base itself one of the largest employers in the states, but it also boasts a thriving business climate.

In addition to this, Black Hills and Monument Health are also two major employers and offer many opportunities for job growth. These industries are supplemented by a strong presence of small businesses and startups across the area that is helping to fuel job creation in the region.

When it comes to the average annual salary in the surrounding areas of Ellsworth AFB, you can expect to make somewhere between $45,000 and $60,000 per year. These salaries can vary depending on your job title, experience level, and educational background.

More economic sectors ripe with opportunity include:

The Best Schools Near Ellsworth AFB

Education can be hands down the most important part of a child's life, and making sure they have access to quality schools is a top priority for parents. That is why it is so fortunate that children living near Ellsworth AFB are served by two excellent school districts.

The Douglas School District and the Rapid City Area School District ensure their students receive an outstanding education with various opportunities both in and out of the classroom.

Whether your kids want to join robotics teams or theatre arts programs after school, these two school districts provide an abundance of activities that encourage learning while having fun at the same time. Education near Ellsworth AFB will set your children up with the skills they need to lead a successful life.

School-aged children living near Ellsworth AFB may attend the following schools:

Where to Live Near Ellsworth AFB

Finding the right place to live near Ellsworth Air Force Base (AFB) may seem like a daunting task. The good news is that there are plenty of lovely neighborhoods and communities nearby with something for everyone. Many of these areas offer a variety of amenities, such as parks, trails, and recreational centers. And best of all, they are close to the base!

But which one is the right fit for you? We’ve rounded up some of the best neighborhoods near Ellsworth AFB to help you decide.

Nightlife & Popular Restaurants Near Ellsworth AFB

As if living near Ellsworth AFB couldn't get any better, the area is packed with dining and entertainment options. Whether you're in the mood for a night out on the town or looking for a more relaxed evening with some delicious take-out, you're sure to find something that pleases your palate.

Most of these establishments can be found in Rapid City which should not come as a surprise as it's the second-largest city in South Dakota.

Some of our must-try places include:

How to Get Around?

Due to the Ellsworth AFB's perfect location, it is well connected to the Rapid City Regional Airport and the rest of the region. Fortunately, residents don't need to worry about spending too much time getting around—the one-way commute time is about 15.7 minutes, which is significantly shorter than the U.S. average of 26.4 minutes!

That means Ellsworth AFB employees and visitors can spend less time commuting and more time doing things they love, like visiting world-renowned attractions like Mount Rushmore or exploring the Black Hills National Forest. Furthermore, there's a Rapid Transit System in place for public transportation which makes accessing nearby cities even easier and more convenient.

Fun Things to Do Near Ellsworth AFB

Who would have thought living near Ellsworth AFB could be so exciting? Just a short drive in almost every direction will take you to some of South Dakota's best attractions. Whether you're a tourist or a local, there's always something fun and interesting to explore in this part of the state.

Some of the most popular events and attractions near Ellsworth AFB include: