Dell Rapids, SD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,905
-1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$100,170/yr
-1.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
1,606
-3.4% year-over-year change

Dell Rapids population

How many people live in Dell Rapids

Dell Rapids is home to 3,905 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Dell Rapids locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
3,905
-1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
1,939
Female
50.4%
1,966
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,939 49.6% 1.2%
Female 1,966 50.4% -3.2%
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 Dell Rapids is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 20.8% are children under 15, then 8.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 31.4% of the population, while another 21.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
20.8%
15 to 24
8.5%
25 to 44
31.4%
45 to 64
21.2%
Over 65
18%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 813 20.8% -6.7%
15 to 24 332 8.5% 37.8%
25 to 44 1,227 31.4% 9.7%
45 to 64 830 21.2% -15.1%
Over 65 703 18% -4.7%
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 Dell Rapids, 97.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.3% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 4.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.3%
Non-citizens
0.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 3,805 97.4% -1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 89 2.3% 12.7%
Non-citizens 11 0.3% -15.4%
Racial breakdown
White
92.9%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.8%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 3,629 92.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 34 0.9%
Asian 22 0.6%
Two or more races 189 4.8%
Other 31 0.8%

Households in Dell Rapids

A peek inside Dell Rapids households

Dell Rapids has 1,551 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 68.7% are families, while the remaining 31.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,551
-2.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
485
Family households
1,066
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 485 31.3% 10.5%
Family households 1,066 68.7% -7.0%
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 Dell Rapids

The housing landscape of Dell Rapids

Dell Rapids's housing consists of 1,606 units, with 78.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.9% 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 2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
1,606
-3.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,263 78.6%
1 unit, attached 30 1.9%
2 units 78 4.9%
3 or 4 units 40 2.5%
5 to 9 units 90 5.6%
10 to 19 units 7 0.4%
20 to 49 units 43 2.7%
Mobile home 33 2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 22 1.4%
Homes built since 2020
33
-15.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dell Rapids

In Dell Rapids, the median construction year is 1983. About 25.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 17.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 415 25.8% 8.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 91 5.7% 19.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 25 1.6% -56.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 110 6.8% -0.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 133 8.3% -13.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 87 5.4% 58.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 174 10.8% -16.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 253 15.8% -5.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 285 17.8% -9.5%
Built in 2020 or later 33 2% -15.4%
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.

Dell Rapids occupancy rates

Out of the 1,551 occupied housing units in Dell Rapids, 82.3% are owner-occupied, while 17.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,551
-2.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
275
Owner occupied
1,276
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 275 17.7% -8.0%
Owner occupied 1,276 82.3% -0.8%
Unoccupied housing units
3.4%
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.

Dell Rapids housing costs

Housing costs in Dell Rapids come to a median of $1,190 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $962.

Median housing costs per month
$1,190/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 Dell Rapids
$962/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 Dell Rapids

Dell Rapids education at a glance

About 29.3% of the population in Dell Rapids went to high school, while 13.7% pursued college studies. Another 17.3% earned an associate degree and 29.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 62 2.2% 93.8%
High school diploma 842 29.3% -0.7%
College diploma 394 13.7% -14.9%
Associate degree 498 17.3% -8.5%
Bachelor's degree 856 29.8% 11.0%
Graduate degree 225 7.8% -18.5%
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 Dell Rapids

How much people earn in Dell Rapids

The average annual household income in Dell Rapids was $109,498 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $100,170, reflecting a -1.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dell Rapids
$109,498/year
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dell Rapids
$100,170/year
-1.1% year-over-year change

Dell Rapids income by age

In Dell Rapids, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $100,682. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $153,534 overall. Overall, 90.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $100,682 4.7%
45 - 64 $153,534 -11.0%
Over 65 $58,625 -2.9%
Above poverty level
3,458
Below poverty level
359
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,458 90.6% -4.1%
Below poverty level 359 9.4% 49.6%

Average renter income in Dell Rapids

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Dell Rapids, their median household income was $46,795 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 24.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$46,795
Rent-to-income ratio
24.7%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Dell Rapids

Workforce and job types in Dell Rapids

The job market in Dell Rapids is powered by 1,999 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.7% run their own businesses, 54.7% are employed by private companies, and 22.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,999
-2.5% year-over-year change
White collar
1,497
Blue collar
502
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,497 74.9% 0.0%
Blue collar 502 25.1% -9.2%
Employer type
Self employees
10.7%
Private companies
54.7%
Governmental workers
22.3%
Not for profit companies
12.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 213 10.7% 26.8%
Private companies 1,093 54.7% -3.3%
Governmental workers 445 22.3% 2.8%
Not for profit companies 248 12.4% -22.3%
Unemployment rate
0.4%
-61.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Dell Rapids stands at 0.4%, 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 Dell Rapids

How people get around in Dell Rapids

Commuting methods vary: 88.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.6% 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 1,777 88.9% -5.3%
Walk 72 3.6% 300.0%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Dell Rapids by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
57022 5,339 2,011 $100,656 $114,202

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FAQs about Dell Rapids demographics 

What is the total population of Dell Rapids?

Dell Rapids has a total population of 3,905 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 -1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Dell Rapids?

The gender ratio in Dell Rapids is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (1,939 residents)
  • 50.4% females (1,966 residents)

What is the median age in Dell Rapids?

The median age in Dell Rapids is 39.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Dell Rapids?

The age distribution in Dell Rapids is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20.8% (813 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.5% (332 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 31.4% (1,227 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.2% (830 residents)
  • Over 65: 18% (703 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dell Rapids?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dell Rapids is as follows:
  • White: 92.9% (3,629 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (34 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (22 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.8% (189 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (31 residents)

What percentage of the population in Dell Rapids are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.4% of the population in Dell Rapids.

How many housing units are there in Dell Rapids?

There are 1,606 housing units in Dell Rapids, reflecting a -3.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Dell Rapids and what is the average household size?

Dell Rapids has a total of 1,551 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dell Rapids?

Dell Rapids has a median household income of $100,170, representing a -1.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Dell Rapids?

The employment rate is 99.6% in Dell Rapids, with a workforce of 1,999 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.9% (1,497 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.1% (502 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.7% (213 residents)
  • Private companies: 54.7% (1,093 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 22.3% (445 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.4% (248 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