A family that moved to Rapid City initially checked only for public school assignments when looking for a home, but later decided to also explore the private school, St. Thomas More High School. When comparing public and private options side by side, they found there were more factors to consider than they expected. In areas like Rapid City, which is not a large city, there are often limited private school choices, leading families to carefully weigh the pros and cons of the one available school.

St. Thomas More is a high school within the Rapid City Catholic School System, with a total of 809 students from preschool through 12th grade. The tuition for the highest grade is $7,164 per year. The student-to-teacher ratio is 9 to 1, and 96 percent of graduates go on to four-year colleges. The average GPA is 3.63, and the average ACT score is 27.

For public schools, performance can vary based on assigned districts, so it is necessary to verify the assigned school before settling on a specific address. The biggest difference between public and private schools is that private schools can be applied to regardless of school district boundaries. School rating sites also introduce St. Thomas More as one of the top schools in the area, which is why it is often mentioned among families in Rapid City who prioritize academic performance. However, families must also consider whether they can manage the commuting distance and tuition costs. The fact that the average GPA and ACT scores are higher than the regional average is another reason families focused on academics pay attention to this school.

Looking at the housing market, the average home value in Rapid City is $365,969 according to Zillow. It has increased by 1.9 percent over the past year. Other estimates show the median sale price can reach around $420,000, but it's important to note that there can be differences based on the timing and method of the survey. Many families also choose to rent first to experience the area before deciding to buy.

Just as they considered public versus private schools, this family also compared renting and buying side by side. They decided to wait until they were satisfied with the school before looking into purchasing a home. Since mortgage rates can affect monthly payments, it is helpful to consult with a lender first to set a budget range.

If considering public schools as well, it may be worth checking GreatSchools ratings. This site evaluates schools on a scale from 1 to 10, and public schools in the Rapid City area can also be compared here. If a purchase is decided, closing costs should also be included in the budget. Typically, an additional 2 to 5 percent of the home price is incurred, and South Dakota has different structures for transfer taxes and registration fees compared to other states, so it's advisable to confirm the exact amounts before signing a contract.

For families moving from other states, the absence of a state income tax in South Dakota can be a pleasant surprise, but this may make property taxes feel relatively high. Since tax rates can vary by county, it's good to check in advance. It's also wise to consider winter heating costs and road conditions compared to their previous residence.

St. Thomas More often conducts school visits and interviews before enrollment. Given the advantage of being able to apply regardless of school district boundaries, some families also drive to assess whether the commuting distance is manageable. Rapid City is a central city in western South Dakota, and families from nearby areas may relocate here for educational opportunities. Visiting the school during winter or summer breaks to get a feel for the environment is also a good approach.

School district and private school admission requirements can change each year, so please verify directly with the school before signing a contract. This article is not investment or legal advice, and it is recommended to consult with real estate and tax professionals before finalizing any agreements.