Summerset is known for premium housing and quiet surroundings
Just north of Black Hawk, Summerset is a city in Meade County with about 3,000 residents. Incorporated in 2005, it’s among South Dakota’s newest cities and has a reputation for upscale property and safety. “It’s a nice place, and they have their own police department,” says Seth Malott, a broker with Century 21 Clearview Realty. “It’s one of the safest towns in South Dakota.” Summerset’s law enforcement team provides everything from traffic stops to crime investigations. Near the foot of the Black Hills, the city has a level of greenery not often seen further east – something Malott says homeowners pay a premium for. “It’s the pinecone tax,” he says. “Western parts of town like that are more expensive.”
21st-century homes offer modern amenities and scenic views
Gently curving roads flow through Summerset's neighborhoods, passing contemporary split-levels and ranch-style homes with driveways and double-car garages. Lots are neatly spaced rectangles, often no larger than a quarter of an acre. Homes range from the $370,000s to the $550,000s, with a median price in the $450,000s. Higher prices generally come from amenities such as larger lots, modern upgrades and views of the Black Hills.
Shopping is in Rapid City and along I-90
The area around Interstate 90 has some nearby retail options. Still, locals are just as likely to drive to the Uptown Rapid Mall in Rapid City , about 12 miles south. Grocery stores like Lynn’s Dakotamart and Dollar General are along Sturgis Road. Neighbors Grub and Pub is a classic family restaurant with a fully stocked bar and a menu with laid-back fare like wings, burgers and flat iron steak. Further south in Black Hawk, J.R.’s BBQ Pit serves Texas-style barbecue. Large groups and brave individuals can order The Gout, a platter with a pound each of brisket, pork, turkey, links and more.
The Black Hills provide hiking and camping opportunities
Families can visit Piedmont City Park, a few miles north, which has playground equipment, a picnic shelter and memorial gardens. The surrounding Black Hills area is filled with natural environments for RV and tent camping, with some of the nearest sites being Black Hills Station, Lazy Acre and Black Hawk Creek. Nearby hiking trails include Botany Canyon, Little Elk Creek and the Petrified Forest Trail.
Sturgis High is known for its athletics
Summerset students are served by Meade School District, which has a C-plus from Niche and over a dozen public schools. Sturgis Brown High School is known for its athletics. Its football team appeared in the 2024 state playoffs while its wrestling team won the 2025 state championships.
The largest motorcycle rally is just up the highway
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is the largest event of its kind in the world, often seeing half a million visitors during its 10-day run. Events include live performances, motocross, a 5K and competitions for tattoos, beards and poker.
Summers is halfway between Sturgis and Rapid City
Summerset is about halfway between Rapid City and Sturgis , and both can be reached in about 15 minutes via Interstate 90. Rapid City has a variety of healthcare options, the closest of which is Urgent Care Rapid City, about 10 miles away.
Wildfires are a risk in the area
Due to dry conditions and high temperatures, Summerset is at a severe risk of wildfires.
