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

Total population
10,221
0.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,130/yr
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,848
0.5% year-over-year change

Roberts County population

How many people live in Roberts County

Roberts County is home to 10,221 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51% of Roberts County locals are male, and 49% are female.

Total population
10,221
0.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51%
5,218
Female
49%
5,003
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,218 51% -0.9%
Female 5,003 49% 1.0%
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 Roberts County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 23.3% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.4% of the population, while another 23% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
23.3%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
20.4%
45 to 64
23%
Over 65
20.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,384 23.3% -0.7%
15 to 24 1,265 12.4% 4.2%
25 to 44 2,087 20.4% -2.3%
45 to 64 2,348 23% -0.8%
Over 65 2,137 20.9% 1.7%
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 Roberts County, 97.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 57% of locals are Caucasian, 0.3% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 6.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.6%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,983 97.7% -1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 168 1.6% 290.7%
Non-citizens 70 0.7% 11.1%
Racial breakdown
White
57%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
34.7%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
6.6%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 5,830 57%
Black or African American 33 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3,544 34.7%
Asian 83 0.8%
Two or more races 669 6.6%
Other 62 0.6%

Households in Roberts County

A peek inside Roberts County households

Roberts County has 3,625 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 65.7% are families, while the remaining 34.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,625
-0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,244
Family households
2,381
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,244 34.3% -1.4%
Family households 2,381 65.7% -0.6%
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 Roberts County

The housing landscape of Roberts County

Roberts County's housing consists of 4,848 units, with 80% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 11.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,848
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,878 80%
1 unit, attached 29 0.6%
2 units 76 1.6%
3 or 4 units 111 2.3%
5 to 9 units 86 1.8%
10 to 19 units 32 0.7%
20 to 49 units 70 1.4%
Mobile home 561 11.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 5 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
32
60.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Roberts County

In Roberts County, the median construction year is 1974. About 22.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,076 22.2% -6.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 250 5.2% 1.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 380 7.8% -3.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 405 8.4% -2.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 884 18.2% 11.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 498 10.3% -10.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 456 9.4% -3.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 466 9.6% 17.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 401 8.3% 5.2%
Built in 2020 or later 32 0.7% 60.0%
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.

Roberts County occupancy rates

Out of the 3,625 occupied housing units in Roberts County, 71.2% are owner-occupied, while 28.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 25.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,625
-0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,045
Owner occupied
2,580
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,045 28.8% -6.5%
Owner occupied 2,580 71.2% 1.6%
Unoccupied housing units
25.2%
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.

Roberts County housing costs

Housing costs in Roberts County come to a median of $695 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $658.

Median housing costs per month
$695/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 Roberts County
$658/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 Roberts County

Roberts County education at a glance

About 44.5% of the population in Roberts County went to high school, while 20.7% pursued college studies. Another 14.7% earned an associate degree and 13.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 176 2.4% 19.7%
High school diploma 3,262 44.5% -1.9%
College diploma 1,517 20.7% 5.0%
Associate degree 1,076 14.7% -7.8%
Bachelor's degree 961 13.1% 1.1%
Graduate degree 342 4.7% 0.9%
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 Roberts County

How much people earn in Roberts County

The average annual household income in Roberts County was $83,087 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 $65,130, reflecting a +2.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Roberts County
$83,087/year
4.0% year-over-year change
Median household income in Roberts County
$65,130/year
2.3% year-over-year change

Roberts County income by age

In Roberts County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $66,146. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $84,583 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $58,824, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $51,507 in earnings. Overall, 84.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $58,824 5.2%
25 - 44 $66,146 0.3%
45 - 64 $84,583 5.7%
Over 65 $51,507 -0.9%
Above poverty level
8,261
Below poverty level
1,546
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,261 84.2% 2.1%
Below poverty level 1,546 15.8% -8.3%

Employment in Roberts County

Workforce and job types in Roberts County

The job market in Roberts County is powered by 4,315 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 19% run their own businesses, 46.4% are employed by private companies, and 24% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,315
-0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
3,199
Blue collar
1,116
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,199 74.1% 2.4%
Blue collar 1,116 25.9% -8.8%
Employer type
Self employees
19%
Private companies
46.4%
Governmental workers
24%
Not for profit companies
10.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 819 19% 2.5%
Private companies 2,001 46.4% -4.5%
Governmental workers 1,034 24% 4.9%
Not for profit companies 461 10.7% -1.5%
Unemployment rate
6.0%
-4.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Roberts County stands at 6%, 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 Roberts County

How people get around in Roberts County

In Roberts County, the average commute time is 16 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
16 min
-1.2% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,506 83.4% -2.5%
Bus or trolleybus 47 1.1% 14.6%
Motorcycle 9 0.2% 12.5%
Bicycle 3 0.1% 50.0%
Walk 178 4.2% -4.3%
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 Roberts County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
56219 697 294 $68,833 $109,670
57255 488 201 $63,393 $84,900
57256 238 88 $66,500 $79,164
57257 637 208 $55,625 $61,912
57260 1,119 447 $82,656 $93,839
57262 5,100 1,628 $51,889 $69,683
57266 626 206 $72,500 $84,834
57216 1,584 690 $88,203 $98,530
57224 164 75 $59,063 $76,481
57227 562 142 $96,500 $129,613

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FAQs about Roberts County demographics 

What is the total population of Roberts County?

Roberts County has a total population of 10,221 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 +0.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Roberts County?

The gender ratio in Roberts County is as follows:
  • 51% males (5,218 residents)
  • 49% females (5,003 residents)

What is the median age in Roberts County?

The median age in Roberts County is 38.5.

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

The age distribution in Roberts County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 23.3% (2,384 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (1,265 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.4% (2,087 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23% (2,348 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.9% (2,137 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Roberts County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Roberts County is as follows:
  • White: 57% (5,830 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (33 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 34.7% (3,544 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (83 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.6% (669 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (62 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.7% of the population in Roberts County.

How many housing units are there in Roberts County?

There are 4,848 housing units in Roberts County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Roberts County has a total of 3,625 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Roberts County?

Roberts County has a median household income of $65,130, representing a +2.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94% in Roberts County, with a workforce of 4,315 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.1% (3,199 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.9% (1,116 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 19% (819 residents)
  • Private companies: 46.4% (2,001 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 24% (1,034 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.7% (461 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