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

Total population
15,219
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,850/yr
-3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,262
0.3% year-over-year change

Clay County population

How many people live in Clay County

Clay County is home to 15,219 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Clay County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
15,219
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
7,594
Female
50.1%
7,625
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,594 49.9% 1.4%
Female 7,625 50.1% -0.2%
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 Clay County is 25, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.4% are children under 15, then 35.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.6% of the population, while another 16.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
24.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.4%
15 to 24
35.7%
25 to 44
21.6%
45 to 64
16.1%
Over 65
12.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,195 14.4% -1.6%
15 to 24 5,430 35.7% -1.3%
25 to 44 3,284 21.6% 5.8%
45 to 64 2,454 16.1% 0.0%
Over 65 1,856 12.2% 0.7%
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 Clay County, 95.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 85% of locals are Caucasian, 1.8% are African American and 3% have Asian roots. Another 3.8% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 6.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
2.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 14,573 95.8% 1.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 248 1.6% 9.7%
Non-citizens 398 2.6% -31.9%
Racial breakdown
White
85%
Black or African American
1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
3.8%
Asian
3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6.2%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 12,933 85%
Black or African American 278 1.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 574 3.8%
Asian 452 3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 11 0.1%
Two or more races 939 6.2%
Other 32 0.2%

Households in Clay County

A peek inside Clay County households

Clay County has 5,547 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 46.8% are families, while the remaining 53.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,547
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,948
Family households
2,599
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,948 53.2% 2.8%
Family households 2,599 46.8% -3.5%
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 Clay County

The housing landscape of Clay County

Clay County's housing consists of 6,262 units, with 52.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.5% 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 5.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,262
0.3% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,312 52.9%
1 unit, attached 157 2.5%
2 units 121 1.9%
3 or 4 units 604 9.6%
5 to 9 units 638 10.2%
10 to 19 units 820 13.1%
20 to 49 units 113 1.8%
50 or more units 153 2.4%
Mobile home 344 5.5%
Homes built since 2020
29
625.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Clay County

In Clay County, the median construction year is 1976. About 18.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 21.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,170 18.7% -10.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 312 5% 8.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 320 5.1% 14.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 661 10.6% 6.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,052 16.8% 6.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 366 5.8% -14.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 616 9.8% -21.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 407 6.5% -6.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,329 21.2% 19.6%
Built in 2020 or later 29 0.5% 625.0%
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.

Clay County occupancy rates

Out of the 5,547 occupied housing units in Clay County, 50.8% are owner-occupied, while 49.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,547
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,728
Owner occupied
2,819
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,728 49.2% 1.7%
Owner occupied 2,819 50.8% -2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
11.4%
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.

Clay County housing costs

Housing costs in Clay County come to a median of $910 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $770.

Median housing costs per month
$910/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 Clay County
$770/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 Clay County

Clay County education at a glance

About 31.3% of the population in Clay County went to high school, while 27.9% pursued college studies. Another 6.4% earned an associate degree and 19.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 13.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 206 1.6% 28.8%
High school diploma 3,934 31.3% 10.7%
College diploma 3,503 27.9% -7.7%
Associate degree 805 6.4% 7.5%
Bachelor's degree 2,484 19.8% 0.5%
Graduate degree 1,642 13.1% -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 Clay County

How much people earn in Clay County

The average annual household income in Clay County was $78,631 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,850, reflecting a -3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Clay County
$78,631/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Clay County
$56,850/year
-3.3% year-over-year change

Clay County income by age

In Clay County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $59,461. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,875 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $23,918, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $68,068 in earnings. Overall, 80.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $23,918 1.9%
25 - 44 $59,461 -16.4%
45 - 64 $86,875 -1.2%
Over 65 $68,068 5.1%
Above poverty level
10,174
Below poverty level
2,450
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 10,174 80.6% 1.1%
Below poverty level 2,450 19.4% 2.2%

Employment in Clay County

Workforce and job types in Clay County

The job market in Clay County is powered by 8,006 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 84% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 16% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.7% run their own businesses, 53.5% are employed by private companies, and 26.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,006
2.9% year-over-year change
White collar
6,722
Blue collar
1,284
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,722 84% 5.0%
Blue collar 1,284 16% -6.9%
Employer type
Self employees
8.7%
Private companies
53.5%
Governmental workers
26.5%
Not for profit companies
11.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 694 8.7% 6.3%
Private companies 4,284 53.5% 3.7%
Governmental workers 2,125 26.5% -0.4%
Not for profit companies 903 11.3% 4.5%
Unemployment rate
7.0%
-15.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Clay County stands at 7%, 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 Clay County

How people get around in Clay County

Commuting methods vary: 81.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 8.9% 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 6,308 81.2% 8.1%
Taxicab 1 0% 0.0%
Bus or trolleybus 69 0.9% 2,200.0%
Railroad 46 0.6% 109.1%
Motorcycle 7 0.1% 40.0%
Bicycle 96 1.2% -30.4%
Walk 688 8.9% -13.1%
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 Clay County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
57004 3,834 1,506 $88,750 $101,718
57010 755 298 $93,611 $106,575
57014 1,667 674 $77,000 $102,377
57031 784 394 $64,794 $84,195
57069 13,091 4,839 $53,327 $72,543
57072 435 189 $91,750 $88,924
57073 564 203 $73,281 $87,541

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FAQs about Clay County demographics 

What is the total population of Clay County?

Clay County has a total population of 15,219 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Clay County?

The gender ratio in Clay County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (7,594 residents)
  • 50.1% females (7,625 residents)

What is the median age in Clay County?

The median age in Clay County is 24.9.

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

The age distribution in Clay County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.4% (2,195 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 35.7% (5,430 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.6% (3,284 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 16.1% (2,454 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.2% (1,856 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Clay County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Clay County is as follows:
  • White: 85% (12,933 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.8% (278 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 3.8% (574 residents)
  • Asian: 3% (452 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (11 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.2% (939 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (32 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 95.8% of the population in Clay County.

How many housing units are there in Clay County?

There are 6,262 housing units in Clay County, reflecting a +0.3% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Clay County has a total of 5,547 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Clay County?

Clay County has a median household income of $56,850, representing a -3.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93% in Clay County, with a workforce of 8,006 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 84% (6,722 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 16% (1,284 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.7% (694 residents)
  • Private companies: 53.5% (4,284 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 26.5% (2,125 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.3% (903 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