Meta is making a major bet on South Dakota with an $800 million investment that will bring 1,200 new technology jobs to Sioux Falls over the next two years. The social media and technology giant plans to significantly expand its existing data center campus with two new buildings focused on AI infrastructure and cloud computing capacity. This expansion represents one of the largest private sector investments in South Dakota history and positions Sioux Falls as a growing hub for tech industry careers in the Upper Midwest.
What Jobs Are Being Created?
Meta's expansion will create a diverse range of positions across multiple skill levels and technical specialties. The majority of roles will focus on data center operations and maintenance, including data center technicians responsible for server management and hardware maintenance, facility operations staff who manage building systems and infrastructure, and network engineers who ensure connectivity and data flow.
Additionally, Meta will hire software developers, systems engineers, and technical program managers to support the AI and cloud computing initiatives these facilities will power. Entry-level data center technician positions will start around $58,000 annually, while experienced network engineers and software developers can expect salaries ranging from $95,000 to $125,000 or more depending on experience and specialization.
The hiring will be phased over a two-year period as construction progresses and new facilities come online. Meta typically posts openings on its careers website and works with local workforce development agencies and technical colleges to identify qualified candidates. The company has indicated it will prioritize local hiring where possible and offer training programs for candidates with adjacent skills who need upskilling.
What Do These Jobs Pay After Taxes in South Dakota?
One of Meta's stated reasons for expanding in South Dakota is the state's lack of income tax, which means employees keep more of their earnings compared to most other states. Workers only pay federal income tax and FICA (Social Security and Medicare) contributions. Here's what Meta employees can expect to take home at various salary levels:
| Salary | Annual Take-Home | Monthly | Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| $58,000 | $48,642 | $4,053/mo | 16.1% |
| $72,000 | $59,038 | $4,919/mo | 18.0% |
| $95,000 | $75,218 | $6,268/mo | 20.8% |
| $125,000 | $96,190 | $8,015/mo | 23.0% |
The absence of state income tax means effective tax rates are significantly lower than in states like California or New York, where similar tech positions would face combined federal and state tax rates exceeding 30-35% for higher earners.
Cost of Living — Can You Afford to Live There?
Sioux Falls offers one of the most affordable cost-of-living profiles among cities with major tech employers. The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Sioux Falls is approximately $900 per month, while a two-bedroom averages around $1,150. For those looking to purchase, the median home price is roughly $285,000, well below the national average.
On a $72,000 salary with monthly take-home pay of $4,919, a typical budget might include $1,000 for rent, $400 for groceries, $150 for utilities, $300 for transportation, and $200 for health insurance premiums, leaving substantial room for savings and discretionary spending. Even entry-level technicians earning $58,000 can comfortably afford housing and living expenses while building savings.
Higher earners at the $125,000 level will find their $8,015 monthly take-home pay goes exceptionally far in Sioux Falls, enabling rapid wealth accumulation, homeownership, and a high quality of life.
When Will Hiring Begin?
Meta has indicated that initial hiring for leadership positions and construction oversight roles will begin in the coming months, with the bulk of operational hiring ramping up over the next 18 to 24 months as facilities near completion. The first new building is expected to be operational within 18 months, with the second following approximately six months later.
Interested candidates should monitor Meta's careers portal regularly and can sign up for job alerts specific to the Sioux Falls location. Meta also typically hosts information sessions and recruiting events in communities where it's expanding operations. Following Meta's official social media channels and the City of Sioux Falls economic development announcements will provide updates on hiring timelines and job fairs.
Skills and Qualifications Needed
For data center technician roles, Meta typically requires an associate degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience. Certifications such as CompTIA A+, Network+, or vendor-specific credentials are valuable. Hands-on experience with server hardware, Linux systems, and networking fundamentals is highly desirable.
Network engineer and software developer positions generally require a bachelor's degree in computer science or engineering, along with demonstrated experience in relevant technologies. For network roles, expertise in routing protocols, network security, and large-scale infrastructure is important. Software developers should have strong programming skills in languages like Python, C++, or Java, and experience with distributed systems is a plus.
Meta values problem-solving abilities, collaboration skills, and a willingness to work in a fast-paced environment. The company offers comprehensive training programs, so candidates with strong foundational skills and the ability to learn quickly may qualify even if they don't meet every listed requirement.
Meta's expansion in Sioux Falls represents a tremendous opportunity for technology professionals seeking competitive salaries in a low-tax, affordable environment. With South Dakota's zero percent state income tax, employees will maximize their take-home pay while enjoying a lower cost of living than most major tech hubs. To calculate exactly what you'd take home at different salary levels in South Dakota, visit our South Dakota salary calculator.
Sources
- Meta Platforms, Inc. Press Release - Data Center Expansion Announcement
- South Dakota Governor's Office of Economic Development - Official Statement
- City of Sioux Falls Economic Development Department
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics
- U.S. Census Bureau - Sioux Falls Cost of Living Data
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - Federal Tax Rate Tables
💲 Calculate Your Take-Home Pay in South Dakota
Use our free calculator for any salary level in South Dakota — updated for 2026 tax brackets.
Open South Dakota Salary Calculator →