The South Dakota Secretary of State’s Office has released the state’s 2025 3rd Quarter Economic Report, outlining continued economic strength across the state while identifying emerging challenges related to workforce availability and housing demand.
The report shows sustained momentum in business activity, strong labor market conditions, and continued growth in key sectors. At the same time, data indicate pressures from rising housing costs and a persistently low unemployment rate, underscoring the need for strategic workforce recruitment and long-term planning.
One of the most significant developments highlighted in the Q3 report is the official start of operations at the High Plains Processing soybean plant near Mitchell. This major value-added agriculture investment is already delivering measurable benefits, including an estimated 20-30 cents per bushel increase in price for local soybean producers. The facility strengthens South Dakota’s agricultural economy while reinforcing the state’s leadership in value-added agriculture and rural economic development.
“The data in this report reflect both opportunity and responsibility,” said Secretary of State Monae L. Johnson. “The report equips decision-makers with data-driven insights to support informed policy decisions and to ensure South Dakota’s economic future remains strong and resilient.”
The 2025 Q3 Economic Report is a collaborative effort between the South Dakota Secretary of State’s Office, Dakota Wesleyan University, and the Mitchell Area Development Corporation. The report was developed with analysis provided by students in Dr. Tracy Dice’s economics courses, along with contributions from public and private partners across the state.
Secretary Johnson invites everyone to read the 64 page 2025 South Dakota Economic Report, which can be found on the Secretary of State’s website at: https://sdsos.gov/general-information/publications/Economic%20Reports%202025/2025%20Q3%20Economic%20Report.pdf
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