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

Total population
113,512
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,517/yr
5.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
51,681
2.0% year-over-year change

Pennington County population

How many people live in Pennington County

Pennington County is home to 113,512 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51% of Pennington County locals are male, and 49% are female.

Total population
113,512
1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51%
57,908
Female
49%
55,604
Value Percent YoY change
Male 57,908 51% 1.1%
Female 55,604 49% 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 Pennington County is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.2% are children under 15, then 12% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.8% of the population, while another 24.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.1
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.2%
15 to 24
12%
25 to 44
24.8%
45 to 64
24.8%
Over 65
20.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 20,696 18.2% 0.0%
15 to 24 13,634 12% -0.1%
25 to 44 28,162 24.8% 1.4%
45 to 64 28,150 24.8% 0.6%
Over 65 22,870 20.2% 4.0%
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 Pennington County, 96.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79% of locals are Caucasian, 1.1% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 10.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.3%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 109,518 96.5% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,583 2.3% -7.7%
Non-citizens 1,411 1.2% 52.0%
Racial breakdown
White
79%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
6.8%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
10.5%
Other
1.4%
Value Percent
White 89,672 79%
Black or African American 1,280 1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 7,690 6.8%
Asian 1,401 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 20 0%
Two or more races 11,871 10.5%
Other 1,578 1.4%

Households in Pennington County

A peek inside Pennington County households

Pennington County has 46,370 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.9% are families, while the remaining 40.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
46,370
1.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
18,584
Family households
27,786
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 18,584 40.1% 0.0%
Family households 27,786 59.9% 2.5%
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 Pennington County

The housing landscape of Pennington County

Pennington County's housing consists of 51,681 units, with 62.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.6% 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 8.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
51,681
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 32,196 62.3%
1 unit, attached 2,876 5.6%
2 units 1,117 2.2%
3 or 4 units 1,590 3.1%
5 to 9 units 1,922 3.7%
10 to 19 units 2,834 5.5%
20 to 49 units 2,699 5.2%
50 or more units 1,794 3.5%
Mobile home 4,478 8.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 175 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
1,774
103.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Pennington County

In Pennington County, the median construction year is 1982. About 6.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 3,375 6.5% 1.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,617 3.1% 11.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 6,370 12.3% -1.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,092 7.9% 4.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 9,140 17.7% -0.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 5,241 10.1% -7.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 5,638 10.9% -6.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 8,035 15.6% 0.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 6,399 12.4% 10.9%
Built in 2020 or later 1,774 3.4% 103.0%
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.

Pennington County occupancy rates

Out of the 46,370 occupied housing units in Pennington County, 69.3% are owner-occupied, while 30.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 10.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
46,370
1.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
14,245
Owner occupied
32,125
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 14,245 30.7% 0.8%
Owner occupied 32,125 69.3% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
10.3%
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.

Pennington County housing costs

Housing costs in Pennington County come to a median of $1,212 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,120.

Median housing costs per month
$1,212/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 Pennington County
$1,120/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 Pennington County

Pennington County education at a glance

About 32.5% of the population in Pennington County went to high school, while 22.6% pursued college studies. Another 11.1% earned an associate degree and 20.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,876 2.1% 7.3%
High school diploma 28,743 32.5% 1.1%
College diploma 19,991 22.6% -1.0%
Associate degree 9,847 11.1% 1.4%
Bachelor's degree 18,001 20.3% 2.7%
Graduate degree 10,079 11.4% 5.4%
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 Pennington County

How much people earn in Pennington County

The average annual household income in Pennington County was $99,289 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,517, reflecting a +5.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Pennington County
$99,289/year
4.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Pennington County
$74,517/year
5.3% year-over-year change

Pennington County income by age

In Pennington County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $80,275. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $89,511 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $46,525, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,451 in earnings. Overall, 88.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $46,525 11.2%
25 - 44 $80,275 7.3%
45 - 64 $89,511 2.9%
Over 65 $56,451 1.5%
Above poverty level
96,723
Below poverty level
12,182
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 96,723 88.8% 2.4%
Below poverty level 12,182 11.2% -6.2%

Employment in Pennington County

Workforce and job types in Pennington County

The job market in Pennington County is powered by 55,561 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11% run their own businesses, 60.4% are employed by private companies, and 15.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
55,561
1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
42,740
Blue collar
12,821
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 42,740 76.9% 0.7%
Blue collar 12,821 23.1% 3.6%
Employer type
Self employees
11%
Private companies
60.4%
Governmental workers
15.6%
Not for profit companies
13%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,104 11% -6.8%
Private companies 33,535 60.4% 2.6%
Governmental workers 8,698 15.6% -3.0%
Not for profit companies 7,224 13% 9.3%
Unemployment rate
3.2%
-4.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Pennington County stands at 3.2%, 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 Pennington County

How people get around in Pennington County

In Pennington County, the average commute time is 19 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
19 min
3.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 48,488 86.4% 1.6%
Taxicab 7 0% N/A
Bus or trolleybus 95 0.2% -29.1%
Motorcycle 213 0.4% 24.6%
Bicycle 406 0.7% 2.3%
Walk 1,045 1.9% 16.4%
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 Pennington County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
57701 45,795 18,803 $56,461 $73,937
57702 35,595 15,314 $91,457 $135,695
57703 18,013 7,166 $83,739 $96,038
57719 12,221 4,547 $74,885 $88,639
57725 130 84 $48,214 $72,780
57744 2,421 1,052 $106,250 $122,101
57745 1,894 660 $88,194 $113,049
57751 893 327 $97,969 $108,642
57761 1,180 385 $97,734 $103,854
57767 234 112 $250,001 $201,799

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FAQs about Pennington County demographics 

What is the total population of Pennington County?

Pennington County has a total population of 113,512 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 +1.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Pennington County?

The gender ratio in Pennington County is as follows:
  • 51% males (57,908 residents)
  • 49% females (55,604 residents)

What is the median age in Pennington County?

The median age in Pennington County is 40.1.

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

The age distribution in Pennington County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.2% (20,696 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12% (13,634 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.8% (28,162 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.8% (28,150 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.2% (22,870 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Pennington County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Pennington County is as follows:
  • White: 79% (89,672 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (1,280 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 6.8% (7,690 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (1,401 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (20 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 10.5% (11,871 residents)
  • Other: 1.4% (1,578 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.5% of the population in Pennington County.

How many housing units are there in Pennington County?

There are 51,681 housing units in Pennington County, reflecting a +2.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Pennington County has a total of 46,370 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Pennington County?

Pennington County has a median household income of $74,517, 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 Pennington County?

The employment rate is 96.8% in Pennington County, with a workforce of 55,561 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.9% (42,740 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.1% (12,821 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11% (6,104 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.4% (33,535 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.6% (8,698 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13% (7,224 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