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

Total population
1,943
-4.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,076/yr
5.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
779
0.0% year-over-year change

Mellette County population

How many people live in Mellette County

Mellette County is home to 1,943 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.1% of Mellette County locals are male, and 50.9% are female.

Total population
1,943
-4.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.1%
954
Female
50.9%
989
Value Percent YoY change
Male 954 49.1% -2.4%
Female 989 50.9% -7.2%
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 Mellette County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.4% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.6% of the population, while another 25.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.4%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
23.6%
45 to 64
25.1%
Over 65
16.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 455 23.4% -15.6%
15 to 24 224 11.5% -16.1%
25 to 44 458 23.6% 0.7%
45 to 64 487 25.1% 3.2%
Over 65 319 16.4% 2.9%
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

Another 56.4% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
100%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 1,943 100% -4.9%
Racial breakdown
White
34.7%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
56.4%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
8%
Other
0.5%
Value Percent
White 674 34.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,096 56.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 7 0.4%
Two or more races 156 8%
Other 10 0.5%

Households in Mellette County

A peek inside Mellette County households

Mellette County has 641 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 62.4% are families, while the remaining 37.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
641
4.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
241
Family households
400
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 241 37.6% 12.1%
Family households 400 62.4% -0.2%
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 Mellette County

The housing landscape of Mellette County

Mellette County's housing consists of 779 units, with 74.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 21.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
779
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 578 74.2%
2 units 29 3.7%
3 or 4 units 5 0.6%
Mobile home 167 21.4%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Mellette County

In Mellette County, the median construction year is 1969. About 16.6% 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.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 129 16.6% 15.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 39 5% 30.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 97 12.4% 49.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 141 18.1% -2.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 150 19.3% -5.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 101 13% 16.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 36 4.6% -46.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 59 7.6% -28.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 27 3.5% -15.6%
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.

Mellette County occupancy rates

Out of the 641 occupied housing units in Mellette County, 60.4% are owner-occupied, while 39.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
641
4.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
254
Owner occupied
387
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 254 39.6% 2.8%
Owner occupied 387 60.4% 4.9%
Unoccupied housing units
17.7%
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.

Mellette County housing costs

Housing costs in Mellette County come to a median of $630 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $708.

Median housing costs per month
$630/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 Mellette County
$708/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 Mellette County

Mellette County education at a glance

About 51.9% of the population in Mellette County went to high school, while 19.1% pursued college studies. Another 8.3% earned an associate degree and 12.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 45 3.2% -29.7%
High school diploma 719 51.9% -5.2%
College diploma 265 19.1% 3.9%
Associate degree 115 8.3% -2.5%
Bachelor's degree 174 12.6% 6.8%
Graduate degree 68 4.9% 74.4%
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 Mellette County

How much people earn in Mellette County

The average annual household income in Mellette County was $74,230 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +26.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,076, reflecting a +5.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Mellette County
$74,230/year
26.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Mellette County
$54,076/year
5.3% year-over-year change

Mellette County income by age

In Mellette County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $39,265. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $51,250 overall. Overall, 58.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $39,265 -25.5%
45 - 64 $51,250 10.5%
Over 65 $58,750 13.2%
Above poverty level
1,073
Below poverty level
769
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 1,073 58.2% 4.1%
Below poverty level 769 41.8% -12.4%

Employment in Mellette County

Workforce and job types in Mellette County

The job market in Mellette County is powered by 758 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 86.5% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 13.5% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 28.9% run their own businesses, 29.3% are employed by private companies, and 28.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
758
14.3% year-over-year change
White collar
656
Blue collar
102
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 656 86.5% 14.7%
Blue collar 102 13.5% 12.1%
Employer type
Self employees
28.9%
Private companies
29.3%
Governmental workers
28.8%
Not for profit companies
13.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 219 28.9% 43.1%
Private companies 222 29.3% 14.4%
Governmental workers 218 28.8% -6.8%
Not for profit companies 99 13.1% 20.7%
Unemployment rate
12.5%
-5.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Mellette County stands at 12.5%, 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 Mellette County

How people get around in Mellette County

In Mellette County, the average commute time is 17 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 82.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
17 min
5.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 616 82.4% 8.1%
Walk 16 2.1% -51.5%
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 Mellette County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
57521 314 65 $57,813 $120,195
57560 391 135 $0 $21,587
57566 1,184 229 $14,176 $23,162
57579 1,277 412 $56,474 $72,302
57585 114 70 $0 $105,863

Explore more communities

FAQs about Mellette County demographics 

What is the total population of Mellette County?

Mellette County has a total population of 1,943 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 -4.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Mellette County?

The gender ratio in Mellette County is as follows:
  • 49.1% males (954 residents)
  • 50.9% females (989 residents)

What is the median age in Mellette County?

The median age in Mellette County is 37.5.

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

The age distribution in Mellette County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.4% (455 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (224 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.6% (458 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.1% (487 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.4% (319 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Mellette County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Mellette County is as follows:
  • White: 34.7% (674 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 56.4% (1,096 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (7 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8% (156 residents)
  • Other: 0.5% (10 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 100% of the population in Mellette County.

How many housing units are there in Mellette County?

There are 779 housing units in Mellette County, reflecting a 0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Mellette County has a total of 641 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Mellette County?

Mellette County has a median household income of $54,076, representing a +5.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 87.5% in Mellette County, with a workforce of 758 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 86.5% (656 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 13.5% (102 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 28.9% (219 residents)
  • Private companies: 29.3% (222 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 28.8% (218 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.1% (99 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