Cost of Living in Clark County, South Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Clark County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Clark County ranks #374 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 12%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Clark County, South Dakota
Clark renters slightly above national norm
Clark County renters allocate 13.5% of household income to rent, slightly above the national standard of 12-14%, while median income of $62,885 trails the national figure of $74,755. The $709 monthly rent represents a manageable but not exceptional affordability position compared to national benchmarks.
Slightly tighter than state average
Clark County's 13.5% rent-to-income ratio runs marginally higher than South Dakota's 13.8% average, marking it as nearly typical for the state. Rent at $709 sits $47 below the state median, offering modest savings relative to the broader South Dakota market.
Mid-range costs, accessible pricing
At $709, Clark's rent falls between Campbell County's bargain prices ($635) and the pricier markets of Codington ($901) and Butte ($940). The median home value of $141,900 positions Clark as an affordable entry point for homebuyers without extreme rural isolation.
Stretched but manageable housing burden
Renters pay $709 monthly while homeowners spend $750 on properties valued near $141,900, against a $62,885 median income. Housing costs consume approximately 13-14% of gross monthly earnings, requiring careful budgeting but remaining within reasonable bounds.
Clark County: steady, affordable community
Clark County suits relocators seeking stability below the national income level without sacrificing affordability—rent runs slightly under state average and home values stay modest. Plan for housing to consume roughly 13-14% of income, leaving room for other essentials in a quiet, small-town setting.
Cost of Living Advisory: Clark County
Affordability Verdict
Clark County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $709/month — about 13.5% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Clark County is $709/month, while owner costs run $750/month. Renting saves approximately $41/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,360/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $32,143/year. With a median household income of $62,885, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 20.0% of renter households in Clark County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Clark County sits 8% more expensive than Roberts County ($656/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Clark County
Rent Burden
13.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,467
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.3%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Clark County
Median home value is $141,900. Estimated monthly cost: $1,133 vs. your max of $1,467.
Rent Affordability Guide
Income Needed Calculator
See how much you need to earn to comfortably afford housing
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Based on the 30% rule for rent and 28% rule for housing costs (mortgage + owner costs). Mortgage estimate assumes 20% down, 7.2% interest, 30-year fixed.
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.
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