Cost of Living in Dewey County, South Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Dewey County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Dewey County ranks #1,179 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 38%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Dewey County, South Dakota
Dewey faces steeper housing affordability challenges
Dewey County's 14.8% rent-to-income ratio exceeds both the national median and South Dakota's 13.8% state average, driven by a median household income of $57,928—the lowest among these eight counties. While the $714 monthly rent is moderate, lower incomes intensify the proportional housing burden.
Dewey ranks among South Dakota's tougher markets
With a 14.8% rent-to-income ratio, Dewey County sits above South Dakota's 13.8% state average, indicating above-average affordability stress for renters. The county's lower median income makes housing costs feel proportionally heavier than in higher-earning peer counties.
Dewey struggles relative to peer counties
Dewey's 14.8% rent-to-income ratio places it among the highest in this cohort, exceeded only by Fall River (17.0%). While Dewey's home values ($75,400) are the lowest in the group, the county's low median income of $57,928 creates disproportionate rental stress.
Dewey residents allocate significant income to housing
Renters dedicate $714 monthly to housing while homeowners invest $618 in ownership costs, with median home values at just $75,400. Housing consumes 14.8% of the county's median household income, leaving modest cushion for other critical expenses.
Dewey works best for homebuyers, not renters
Dewey County offers the lowest home values in this analysis, making it attractive for budget-conscious buyers willing to accept modest property prices. Renters should explore more affordable alternatives like Day County before committing to Dewey.
Cost of Living Advisory: Dewey County
Affordability Verdict
Dewey County is affordable for renters, with a median gross rent of $714/month representing approximately 14.8% of median household income. The rent burden (GRAPI) stands at 22.0%.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Dewey County is $714/month, while owner costs run $618/month. Owning saves approximately $96/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $28,560/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $26,486/year. With a median household income of $57,928, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 22.0% of renter households in Dewey County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Dewey County sits 7% less expensive than Hamlin County ($769/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Dewey County
Rent Burden
14.8%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,352
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Dewey County
Median home value is $75,400. Estimated monthly cost: $602 vs. your max of $1,352.
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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