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A Homebuyer’s Guide to Sioux Falls Neighborhoods

Written by Levo | January 17, 2020

Buying a home in Sioux Falls, South Dakota? Smart choice! Sioux Falls was rated as one of the 2019 Top 100 Best Places to Live by Livability.com – and once you live here, it’s easy to see why. From bike paths and parks to short commute times and a booming arts and culture scene, it’s an amazing place to live, work and raise a family. After you’ve made your list of must-haves and set a budget, it’s time to narrow down your choices. 

Find your perfect place with this homebuyer’s guide to Sioux Falls neighborhoods.

Downtown Lofts & Condos

One thing that you will notice about Sioux Falls is that there is a good-sized population of people who are young, single, educated and upwardly mobile career starters. In other words, “hipster loft people.” Yes, that’s true – you’ll find many young singles living in downtown Sioux Falls. But you’ll also find families and empty-nesters. Downtown offers a variety of real estate options and price points, with access to bike trails, many of Sioux Falls’ top coffee shops, boutiques, restaurants and more.

  • Predominantly lofts, condominiums and townhomes
  • Close to dining, shopping and nightlife
  • Walking distance to Falls Park and outdoor concerts at Levitt at the Falls  

Southern Suburbs

Minnesota Avenue creates an unwritten divide in Sioux Falls – West Side and East Side. (If you’re new to the city, it’s an easy way to get your bearings, anyway!) No matter which side of Minnesota Avenue on which you choose to live, you’ll find great school districts and family-friendly everything. The southern suburbs on both the east and west sides started growing decades ago but have been getting newer and wider over the last 5-10 years. You’ll find everything from 90s split-levels to new construction developments.

  • Predominantly single-family homes and townhomes
  • New construction developments and lots available
  • Close to surrounding towns of Tea and Harrisburg 

McKennan Historic District

Love character and history? This area is a favorite among Sioux Falls homebuyers due to its mature trees and stately, historic residences – many developed from 1915 to 1935. Prices range from entry-level fixer-uppers to executive homes priced in the millions. You’ll find this neighborhood just southeast of downtown and east of Minnesota and 26th Street, close to the Avera McKennan Medical Campus on Cliff Avenue. Keep an eye out for historic home styles including Prairie School, Mediterranean, Georgian, Tudor, Bungalow, Dutch Colonial and more.

  • Single-family homes
  • Close to downtown, schools and shopping
  • McKennan Park features a wading pool, Mediterranean Sunken Gardens, tennis, shuffleboard and a restored 1926 bandshell  

Central College Living

Sioux Falls is home to many colleges and universities. In the central area just west of Minnesota and Western Avenues, you’ll find Augustana University and the University of Sioux Falls. Both are private, non-profit, four-year institutions, surrounded by a variety of established neighborhoods and family-friendly, tree-lined streets. And if you like to golf, you’ll be surprised to find this neighborhood is not far from two country clubs.

West Sioux Falls

This area encompasses all neighborhoods west of I-29 and all the way out to S. Ellis Road on the far edge of Sioux Falls. Marion Road is another main artery that runs north-south on the western side of Sioux Falls. You’ll find many family-friendly choices in a wide variety of price ranges, new construction developments and even some lakeside living as well. Check out Lake Lorraine, billed as a “premier lifestyle center” with shops, dining and more.

  • Diverse mix of single-family homes and townhomes
  • New construction developments and lots available
  • Short drive to Wild Water West Waterpark in the summer

East Sioux Falls

Baseball, anyone? This area encompasses all neighborhoods east of I-229, but it’s the new Harmodon Park baseball complex that is a big draw for many in- and out-of-town guests. Like to get outside? You’ll also be close to the hills at Great Bear Ski Valley, the Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum and the Big Sioux State Recreational Area just a few minutes farther east in Brandon, South Dakota.

  • Diverse mix of single-family homes and townhomes
  • New construction developments and lots available
  • Close to surrounding towns of Brandon and Dawley Farm Village shopping complex

No matter where you choose to live, Levo Credit Union is dedicated to helping you find the right home loan option – backed by speedy, local decision-making. Ask about our no closing costs options for select Sioux Falls homes, too.