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

Total population
17,081
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$89,636/yr
6.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,588
2.0% year-over-year change

Union County population

How many people live in Union County

Union County is home to 17,081 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 51.6% of Union County locals are male, and 48.4% are female.

Total population
17,081
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
51.6%
8,812
Female
48.4%
8,269
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,812 51.6% 1.9%
Female 8,269 48.4% -0.0%
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 Union County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.6% are children under 15, then 11.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.3% of the population, while another 24.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.6%
15 to 24
11.1%
25 to 44
25.3%
45 to 64
24.6%
Over 65
19.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,340 19.6% 0.5%
15 to 24 1,899 11.1% -1.7%
25 to 44 4,317 25.3% 0.6%
45 to 64 4,197 24.6% 0.6%
Over 65 3,328 19.5% 4.1%
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 Union County, 97.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90% of locals are Caucasian, 0.9% are African American and 1.1% have Asian roots. Another 1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.7% 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
97.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,650 97.5% 1.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 201 1.2% -22.4%
Non-citizens 230 1.4% -2.5%
Racial breakdown
White
90%
Black or African American
0.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
6.2%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 15,367 90%
Black or African American 160 0.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 167 1%
Asian 190 1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 18 0.1%
Two or more races 1,054 6.2%
Other 125 0.7%

Households in Union County

A peek inside Union County households

Union County has 7,310 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
7,310
2.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,290
Family households
5,020
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,290 31.3% -1.4%
Family households 5,020 68.7% 4.5%
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 Union County

The housing landscape of Union County

Union County's housing consists of 7,588 units, with 72% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.8% 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 4.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,588
2.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,463 72%
1 unit, attached 211 2.8%
2 units 33 0.4%
3 or 4 units 269 3.6%
5 to 9 units 318 4.2%
10 to 19 units 277 3.6%
20 to 49 units 307 4%
50 or more units 371 4.9%
Mobile home 318 4.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 21 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
91
264.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Union County

In Union County, the median construction year is 1993. About 16% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 20% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 16.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,211 16% 0.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 150 2% -21.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 294 3.9% -5.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 308 4.1% -10.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,158 15.3% 5.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 318 4.2% -4.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,316 17.3% -0.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,518 20% 8.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,224 16.1% 1.7%
Built in 2020 or later 91 1.2% 264.0%
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.

Union County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,310 occupied housing units in Union County, 73.1% are owner-occupied, while 26.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,310
2.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,967
Owner occupied
5,343
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,967 26.9% -3.9%
Owner occupied 5,343 73.1% 5.2%
Unoccupied housing units
3.7%
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.

Union County housing costs

Housing costs in Union County come to a median of $1,170 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,069.

Median housing costs per month
$1,170/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 Union County
$1,069/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 Union County

Union County education at a glance

About 30.5% of the population in Union County went to high school, while 18.7% pursued college studies. Another 11.9% earned an associate degree and 24.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 240 1.8% -11.1%
High school diploma 3,962 30.5% -6.4%
College diploma 2,422 18.7% 8.0%
Associate degree 1,543 11.9% 5.7%
Bachelor's degree 3,191 24.6% 6.6%
Graduate degree 1,615 12.4% -0.6%
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 Union County

How much people earn in Union County

The average annual household income in Union County was $124,814 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $89,636, reflecting a +6.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Union County
$124,814/year
6.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Union County
$89,636/year
6.5% year-over-year change

Union County income by age

In Union County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $100,417. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $122,056 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $68,438, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,750 in earnings. Overall, 93.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $68,438 30.9%
25 - 44 $100,417 5.1%
45 - 64 $122,056 3.0%
Over 65 $53,750 2.3%
Above poverty level
15,662
Below poverty level
1,049
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 15,662 93.7% 2.2%
Below poverty level 1,049 6.3% -13.7%

Employment in Union County

Workforce and job types in Union County

The job market in Union County is powered by 8,947 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.9% run their own businesses, 68.1% are employed by private companies, and 11% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,947
3.4% year-over-year change
White collar
6,834
Blue collar
2,113
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,834 76.4% 4.0%
Blue collar 2,113 23.6% 1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
10.9%
Private companies
68.1%
Governmental workers
11%
Not for profit companies
10%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 974 10.9% 5.8%
Private companies 6,091 68.1% 1.5%
Governmental workers 989 11% 3.2%
Not for profit companies 893 10% 15.2%
Unemployment rate
3.0%
-14.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Union County stands at 3%, 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 Union County

How people get around in Union County

In Union County, the average commute time is 18 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 89.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
18 min
-4.8% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 7,974 89.4% 3.4%
Motorcycle 16 0.2% 14.3%
Bicycle 26 0.3% -7.1%
Walk 119 1.3% -0.8%
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 Union County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
51001 2,342 1,041 $75,404 $90,658
51023 3,473 1,236 $80,357 $110,067
57001 1,540 633 $69,531 $79,964
57004 3,834 1,506 $88,750 $101,718
57010 755 298 $93,611 $106,575
57025 3,120 1,242 $94,839 $105,708
57034 661 300 $89,688 $92,302
57038 1,796 736 $106,250 $162,647
57049 7,962 3,504 $93,134 $141,775

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FAQs about Union County demographics 

What is the total population of Union County?

Union County has a total population of 17,081 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Union County?

The gender ratio in Union County is as follows:
  • 51.6% males (8,812 residents)
  • 48.4% females (8,269 residents)

What is the median age in Union County?

The median age in Union County is 41.5.

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

The age distribution in Union County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.6% (3,340 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.1% (1,899 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.3% (4,317 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.6% (4,197 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.5% (3,328 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Union County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Union County is as follows:
  • White: 90% (15,367 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.9% (160 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1% (167 residents)
  • Asian: 1.1% (190 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (18 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 6.2% (1,054 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (125 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.5% of the population in Union County.

How many housing units are there in Union County?

There are 7,588 housing units in Union 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 Union County and what is the average household size?

Union County has a total of 7,310 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Union County?

Union County has a median household income of $89,636, representing a +6.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97% in Union County, with a workforce of 8,947 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.4% (6,834 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.6% (2,113 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.9% (974 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.1% (6,091 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11% (989 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10% (893 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