South Dakota demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
907,428
0.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$75,081/yr
3.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
408,584
1.6% year-over-year change

South Dakota population

How many people live in South Dakota

South Dakota is home to 907,428 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.8% of South Dakota locals are male, and 49.2% are female.

Total population
907,428
0.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.8%
460,693
Female
49.2%
446,735
Value Percent YoY change
Male 460,693 50.8% 1.1%
Female 446,735 49.2% 0.7%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in South Dakota is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 20% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.2% of the population, while another 23.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18% are 65 or older.

Median age
38
Age breakdown
Under 15
20%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
25.2%
45 to 64
23.3%
Over 65
18%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 181,805 20% -0.5%
15 to 24 121,877 13.4% 1.2%
25 to 44 228,707 25.2% 1.0%
45 to 64 211,728 23.3% 0.0%
Over 65 163,311 18% 3.3%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In South Dakota, 95.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80.7% of locals are Caucasian, 2.3% are African American and 1.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.4%
Non-citizens
2.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 864,731 95.3% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 22,201 2.4% 2.4%
Non-citizens 20,496 2.3% 5.0%
Racial breakdown
White
80.7%
Black or African American
2.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
7.5%
Asian
1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.5%
Other
1.6%
Value Percent
White 732,146 80.7%
Black or African American 20,474 2.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 68,370 7.5%
Asian 12,717 1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 340 0%
Two or more races 58,934 6.5%
Other 14,447 1.6%

Households in South Dakota

A peek inside South Dakota households

South Dakota has 365,544 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 61.3% are families, while the remaining 38.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
365,544
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
141,486
Family households
224,058
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 141,486 38.7% 2.4%
Family households 224,058 61.3% 1.7%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in South Dakota

The housing landscape of South Dakota

South Dakota's housing consists of 408,584 units, with 66.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.6% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 7.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
408,584
1.6% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 273,199 66.9%
1 unit, attached 18,606 4.6%
2 units 6,340 1.6%
3 or 4 units 14,307 3.5%
5 to 9 units 16,398 4%
10 to 19 units 17,730 4.3%
20 to 49 units 19,524 4.8%
50 or more units 12,376 3%
Mobile home 29,483 7.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 621 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
9,592
93.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Dakota

In South Dakota, the median construction year is 1980. About 15.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 64,494 15.8% -1.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 15,766 3.9% 1.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 32,587 8% -3.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 30,897 7.6% -0.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 59,217 14.5% 0.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 37,283 9.1% -2.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 47,129 11.5% -0.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 57,958 14.2% 1.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 53,661 13.1% 6.9%
Built in 2020 or later 9,592 2.4% 93.2%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

South Dakota occupancy rates

Out of the 365,544 occupied housing units in South Dakota, 68.6% are owner-occupied, while 31.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
365,544
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
114,923
Owner occupied
250,621
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 114,923 31.4% 2.2%
Owner occupied 250,621 68.6% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
10.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

South Dakota housing costs

Housing costs in South Dakota come to a median of $1,022 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $946.

Median housing costs per month
$1,022/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in South Dakota
$946/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in South Dakota

South Dakota education at a glance

About 34.9% of the population in South Dakota went to high school, while 21.3% pursued college studies. Another 11.8% earned an associate degree and 20.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 17,637 2.6% 0.3%
High school diploma 240,046 34.9% 0.1%
College diploma 146,437 21.3% -1.1%
Associate degree 81,263 11.8% 3.0%
Bachelor's degree 141,233 20.5% 3.0%
Graduate degree 61,069 8.9% 5.5%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in South Dakota

How much people earn in South Dakota

The average annual household income in South Dakota was $98,527 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $75,081, reflecting a +3.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Dakota
$98,527/year
3.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Dakota
$75,081/year
3.7% year-over-year change

South Dakota income by age

In South Dakota, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $84,465. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $91,042 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $43,953, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,181 in earnings. Overall, 88.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $43,953 5.6%
25 - 44 $84,465 3.8%
45 - 64 $91,042 2.9%
Over 65 $55,181 2.8%
Above poverty level
764,639
Below poverty level
103,089
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 764,639 88.1% 1.1%
Below poverty level 103,089 11.9% 0.5%

Employment in South Dakota

Workforce and job types in South Dakota

The job market in South Dakota is powered by 461,290 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 12.3% run their own businesses, 60.2% are employed by private companies, and 15.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
461,290
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
348,771
Blue collar
112,519
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 348,771 75.6% 1.0%
Blue collar 112,519 24.4% 0.4%
Employer type
Self employees
12.3%
Private companies
60.2%
Governmental workers
15.8%
Not for profit companies
11.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 56,942 12.3% -0.1%
Private companies 277,640 60.2% 0.4%
Governmental workers 72,889 15.8% 1.2%
Not for profit companies 53,819 11.7% 3.7%
Unemployment rate
2.9%
-1.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in South Dakota stands at 2.9%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in South Dakota

How people get around in South Dakota

In South Dakota, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 85.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
1.1% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 390,596 85.4% 0.7%
Taxicab 511 0.1% 24.0%
Bus or trolleybus 1,985 0.4% -2.2%
Subway or elevated 183 0% N/A
Railroad 46 0% 109.1%
Ferryboat 72 0% 5.9%
Motorcycle 723 0.2% -5.9%
Bicycle 1,421 0.3% 0.0%
Walk 14,185 3.1% -2.0%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

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FAQs about South Dakota demographics 

What is the total population of South Dakota?

South Dakota has a total population of 907,428 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in South Dakota?

The gender ratio in South Dakota is as follows:
  • 50.8% males (460,693 residents)
  • 49.2% females (446,735 residents)

What is the median age in South Dakota?

The median age in South Dakota is 38.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Dakota?

The age distribution in South Dakota is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20% (181,805 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (121,877 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.2% (228,707 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.3% (211,728 residents)
  • Over 65: 18% (163,311 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Dakota?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Dakota is as follows:
  • White: 80.7% (732,146 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.3% (20,474 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 7.5% (68,370 residents)
  • Asian: 1.4% (12,717 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (340 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.5% (58,934 residents)
  • Other: 1.6% (14,447 residents)

What percentage of the population in South Dakota are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.3% of the population in South Dakota.

How many housing units are there in South Dakota?

There are 408,584 housing units in South Dakota, reflecting a +1.6% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in South Dakota and what is the average household size?

South Dakota has a total of 365,544 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Dakota?

South Dakota has a median household income of $75,081, representing a +3.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for South Dakota?

The employment rate is 97.1% in South Dakota, with a workforce of 461,290 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.6% (348,771 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.4% (112,519 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 12.3% (56,942 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.2% (277,640 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.8% (72,889 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.7% (53,819 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025