Cost of Living in Brown County, South Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Brown County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Brown County, South Dakota
Brown County balances value and amenities
Brown County's 13.6% rent-to-income ratio sits just below the national comfort threshold and nearly matches South Dakota's average, driven by reasonable rents ($794) against a solid median household income of $70,239. The county offers affordable urban living compared to most U.S. peers.
Brown ranks near middle for affordability
At 13.6% rent-to-income, Brown County sits just below the state average of 13.8%, making it competitive with South Dakota's most livable counties. The balance of $794 rents and $70,239 incomes reflects a mature, stable housing market.
Brown offers middle-ground housing costs
Brown County's $794 median rent sits between regional extremes—higher than rural counties like Aurora ($739) and Bon Homme ($620), but lower than growth-pressured Brookings ($874). It positions Brown as a reasonable urban option without Brookings-level price premiums.
Homeownership requires larger commitment
Renters pay $794 monthly (13.6% of income), while homeowners face $1,126 monthly costs (19.3% of the $70,239 median income) for homes valued near $213,000. Renting offers noticeably better affordability than purchasing in Brown County.
Brown suits practical relocators
Brown County works well if you want regional services and a stable job market without Brookings' premium pricing or rural counties' income limitations. The balanced rent-to-income ratio and diverse employment base make it a solid relocation choice.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Brown County
Rent Burden
13.6%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,639
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.2%
of gross income
The median home in Brown County may be a stretch
Median home value is $212,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,700 vs. your max of $1,639.
Rent Affordability Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
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See Today's RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.