Waubay, SD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
337
-20.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$36,389/yr
-0.7% year-over-year change
Housing units
284
-18.2% year-over-year change

Waubay population

How many people live in Waubay

Waubay is home to 337 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.5% of Waubay locals are male, and 55.5% are female.

Total population
337
-20.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.5%
150
Female
55.5%
187
Value Percent YoY change
Male 150 44.5% -29.2%
Female 187 55.5% -12.2%
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 Waubay is 53, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.6% are children under 15, then 3.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 17.5% of the population, while another 19% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 40.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
53.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.6%
15 to 24
3.9%
25 to 44
17.5%
45 to 64
19%
Over 65
40.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 66 19.6% -2.9%
15 to 24 13 3.9% -70.5%
25 to 44 59 17.5% -25.3%
45 to 64 64 19% -12.3%
Over 65 135 40.1% -16.1%
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

There’s also a share of 3.9% 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 337 100% -20.7%
Racial breakdown
White
57.6%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
38.6%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.9%
Other
0%
Value Percent
White 194 57.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 130 38.6%
Two or more races 13 3.9%

Households in Waubay

A peek inside Waubay households

Waubay has 164 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 57.3% are families, while the remaining 42.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
164
-17.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
70
Family households
94
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 70 42.7% -9.1%
Family households 94 57.3% -22.9%
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 Waubay

The housing landscape of Waubay

Waubay's housing consists of 284 units, with 81.3% 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 4.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
284
-18.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 231 81.3%
2 units 17 6%
3 or 4 units 9 3.2%
5 to 9 units 14 4.9%
Mobile home 13 4.6%
Homes built since 2020
2
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Waubay

In Waubay, the median construction year is 1971. About 34.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 5.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.8% 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 99 34.9% -20.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 11 3.9% -31.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 19 6.7% -24.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 10 3.5% -41.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 46 16.2% -24.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 42 14.8% -12.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 14 4.9% 27.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 16 5.6% -38.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 25 8.8% 31.6%
Built in 2020 or later 2 0.7% N/A
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.

Waubay occupancy rates

Out of the 164 occupied housing units in Waubay, 58.5% are owner-occupied, while 41.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 42.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
164
-17.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
68
Owner occupied
96
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 68 41.5% 1.5%
Owner occupied 96 58.5% -27.3%
Unoccupied housing units
42.3%
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.

Waubay housing costs

Housing costs in Waubay come to a median of $615 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $603.

Median housing costs per month
$615/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 Waubay
$603/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 Waubay

Waubay education at a glance

About 38.4% of the population in Waubay went to high school, while 24.4% pursued college studies. Another 4.9% earned an associate degree and 21% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 22 8.3% 120.0%
High school diploma 102 38.4% -33.8%
College diploma 65 24.4% 0.0%
Associate degree 13 4.9% 18.2%
Bachelor's degree 56 21% -20.0%
Graduate degree 8 3% -46.7%
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 Waubay

How much people earn in Waubay

The average annual household income in Waubay was $57,968 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $36,389, reflecting a -0.7% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Waubay
$57,968/year
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Waubay
$36,389/year
-0.7% year-over-year change

Waubay income by age

Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $58,125 overall. Overall, 75.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
45 - 64 $58,125 N/A
Over 65 $35,417 11.7%
Above poverty level
255
Below poverty level
82
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 255 75.7% -33.9%
Below poverty level 82 24.3% 110.3%

Employment in Waubay

Workforce and job types in Waubay

The job market in Waubay is powered by 100 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 24% run their own businesses, 42% are employed by private companies, and 28% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
100
-38.3% year-over-year change
White collar
74
Blue collar
26
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 74 74% -38.8%
Blue collar 26 26% -36.6%
Employer type
Self employees
24%
Private companies
42%
Governmental workers
28%
Not for profit companies
6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 24 24% -14.3%
Private companies 42 42% -26.3%
Governmental workers 28 28% -61.6%
Not for profit companies 6 6% 50.0%
Unemployment rate
5.7%
-33.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Waubay stands at 5.7%, 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 Waubay

How people get around in Waubay

Commuting methods vary: 86% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4% 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 86 86% -41.9%
Walk 4 4% -20.0%
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 Waubay by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
57273 1,165 430 $48,167 $68,717

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FAQs about Waubay demographics 

What is the total population of Waubay?

Waubay has a total population of 337 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 -20.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Waubay?

The gender ratio in Waubay is as follows:
  • 44.5% males (150 residents)
  • 55.5% females (187 residents)

What is the median age in Waubay?

The median age in Waubay is 53.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Waubay?

The age distribution in Waubay is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.6% (66 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 3.9% (13 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 17.5% (59 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 19% (64 residents)
  • Over 65: 40.1% (135 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Waubay?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Waubay is as follows:
  • White: 57.6% (194 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (0 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 38.6% (130 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.9% (13 residents)
  • Other: 0% (0 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Waubay?

There are 284 housing units in Waubay, reflecting a -18.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Waubay has a total of 164 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Waubay?

Waubay has a median household income of $36,389, representing a -0.7% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Waubay?

The employment rate is 94.3% in Waubay, with a workforce of 100 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74% (74 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26% (26 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 24% (24 residents)
  • Private companies: 42% (42 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 28% (28 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6% (6 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