Source: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, SOC 49-3051. Rank and differences are derived from published figures. How we use it.
How South Dakota compares
South Dakota's median is $46,840, $10,710 (18.6%) below the U.S. median. It ranks 40th, mid-table among the 50 states and territories with data.
The top 10% earn $56,560 or more and the bottom 10% under $31,970. That range is narrower than the national one.
About 90 marine mechanics work in South Dakota, 0.4% of the U.S. total. For the size of its workforce, South Dakota has 1.4 times as many marine mechanics as the U.S. average.
Pay distribution: South Dakota vs. United States
South Dakota median $46,840
United States median $57,550
- 10th–90th percentile
- 25th–75th percentile
- Median
| Measure | South Dakota annual | South Dakota hourly | U.S. annual | U.S. hourly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $31,970 | Not loaded | $36,950 | $17.76 |
| 25th percentile | $39,050 | Not loaded | $46,750 | $22.48 |
| Median (50th) | $46,840 | $22.52 | $57,550 | $27.67 |
| 75th percentile | $47,960 | Not loaded | $66,620 | $32.03 |
| 90th percentile | $56,560 | Not loaded | $79,330 | $38.14 |
| Mean (average) | $44,840 | $21.56 | $58,070 | $27.92 |
Hourly percentiles for this state are published by BLS but not loaded here yet, so they show as “Not loaded”.
States with similar pay
Questions about marine mechanic pay in South Dakota
How much does a marine mechanic make in South Dakota?
The median is $46,840 a year, or $22.52 an hour (May 2025). The average is $44,840.
Is South Dakota a good state for marine mechanic pay?
It ranks 40th of 50, 18.6% below the U.S. median. Living costs are not factored in, so compare with what housing costs where you would work.
How many marine mechanics work in South Dakota?
About 90.