Brule County, SD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,283
0.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$73,720/yr
-0.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,367
-0.2% year-over-year change

Brule County population

How many people live in Brule County

Brule County is home to 5,283 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.9% of Brule County locals are male, and 48.1% are female.

Total population
5,283
0.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.9%
2,741
Female
48.1%
2,542
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,741 51.9% -0.5%
Female 2,542 48.1% 1.4%
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 Brule County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.8% are children under 15, then 12.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21% of the population, while another 25.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.8%
15 to 24
12.8%
25 to 44
21%
45 to 64
25.4%
Over 65
21%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,044 19.8% -2.4%
15 to 24 679 12.8% 13.9%
25 to 44 1,110 21% -6.9%
45 to 64 1,340 25.4% 0.2%
Over 65 1,110 21% 4.1%
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 Brule County, 98.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 6.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,183 98.1% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 65 1.2% -7.1%
Non-citizens 35 0.7% 84.2%
Racial breakdown
White
82.2%
Black or African American
0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
10.2%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.7%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 4,342 82.2%
Black or African American 34 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 541 10.2%
Two or more races 353 6.7%
Other 13 0.2%

Households in Brule County

A peek inside Brule County households

Brule County has 1,955 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 60.9% are families, while the remaining 39.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,955
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
764
Family households
1,191
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 764 39.1% -2.5%
Family households 1,191 60.9% 3.8%
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 Brule County

The housing landscape of Brule County

Brule County's housing consists of 2,367 units, with 77.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.5% 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 8.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,367
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,830 77.3%
1 unit, attached 36 1.5%
2 units 20 0.8%
3 or 4 units 75 3.2%
5 to 9 units 60 2.5%
10 to 19 units 78 3.3%
20 to 49 units 37 1.6%
50 or more units 5 0.2%
Mobile home 205 8.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 21 0.9%
Homes built since 2020
6
200.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Brule County

In Brule County, the median construction year is 1971. About 22.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 542 22.9% -3.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 213 9% 26.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 196 8.3% -12.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 196 8.3% 53.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 349 14.7% -19.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 248 10.5% 15.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 188 7.9% -11.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 229 9.7% -0.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 200 8.4% 2.0%
Built in 2020 or later 6 0.2% 200.0%
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.

Brule County occupancy rates

Out of the 1,955 occupied housing units in Brule County, 76.4% are owner-occupied, while 23.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,955
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
462
Owner occupied
1,493
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 462 23.6% -13.0%
Owner occupied 1,493 76.4% 6.6%
Unoccupied housing units
17.4%
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.

Brule County housing costs

Housing costs in Brule County come to a median of $809 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $835.

Median housing costs per month
$809/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 Brule County
$835/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 Brule County

Brule County education at a glance

About 40.9% of the population in Brule County went to high school, while 16.3% pursued college studies. Another 11% earned an associate degree and 18.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 249 6.2% 0.8%
High school diploma 1,635 40.9% 6.9%
College diploma 652 16.3% -5.8%
Associate degree 439 11% 4.3%
Bachelor's degree 735 18.4% -9.5%
Graduate degree 290 7.2% 5.1%
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 Brule County

How much people earn in Brule County

The average annual household income in Brule County was $92,266 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $73,720, reflecting a -0.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Brule County
$92,266/year
0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Brule County
$73,720/year
-0.4% year-over-year change

Brule County income by age

In Brule County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,875. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $91,389 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,250, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,205 in earnings. Overall, 89.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,250 -3.4%
25 - 44 $81,875 -0.5%
45 - 64 $91,389 -0.1%
Over 65 $49,205 -2.8%
Above poverty level
4,500
Below poverty level
546
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,500 89.2% 0.1%
Below poverty level 546 10.8% 5.0%

Employment in Brule County

Workforce and job types in Brule County

The job market in Brule County is powered by 2,595 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 23.7% run their own businesses, 44.2% are employed by private companies, and 20% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,595
-3.4% year-over-year change
White collar
2,082
Blue collar
513
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,082 80.2% -2.7%
Blue collar 513 19.8% -6.0%
Employer type
Self employees
23.7%
Private companies
44.2%
Governmental workers
20%
Not for profit companies
12.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 614 23.7% 0.7%
Private companies 1,148 44.2% -4.7%
Governmental workers 520 20% 14.0%
Not for profit companies 313 12.1% -24.4%
Unemployment rate
1.5%
-9.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Brule County stands at 1.5%, 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 Brule County

How people get around in Brule County

Commuting methods vary: 79.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 6.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,004 79.5% -1.3%
Ferryboat 6 0.2% 20.0%
Walk 153 6.1% 17.7%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Brule County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
57325 3,335 1,186 $80,139 $99,878
57355 1,120 459 $63,125 $78,780
57369 2,630 960 $78,100 $83,366
57370 894 332 $58,824 $70,875

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FAQs about Brule County demographics 

What is the total population of Brule County?

Brule County has a total population of 5,283 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 +0.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Brule County?

The gender ratio in Brule County is as follows:
  • 51.9% males (2,741 residents)
  • 48.1% females (2,542 residents)

What is the median age in Brule County?

The median age in Brule County is 41.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Brule County?

The age distribution in Brule County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.8% (1,044 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.8% (679 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21% (1,110 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.4% (1,340 residents)
  • Over 65: 21% (1,110 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Brule County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Brule County is as follows:
  • White: 82.2% (4,342 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.6% (34 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 10.2% (541 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.7% (353 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (13 residents)

What percentage of the population in Brule County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.1% of the population in Brule County.

How many housing units are there in Brule County?

There are 2,367 housing units in Brule County, reflecting a -0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Brule County and what is the average household size?

Brule County has a total of 1,955 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Brule County?

Brule County has a median household income of $73,720, representing a -0.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Brule County?

The employment rate is 98.5% in Brule County, with a workforce of 2,595 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.2% (2,082 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.8% (513 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 23.7% (614 residents)
  • Private companies: 44.2% (1,148 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20% (520 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.1% (313 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