Cost of Living in Douglas County, South Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Douglas County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Douglas County, South Dakota
Douglas balances strong income with moderate costs
Douglas County's 13.3% rent-to-income ratio sits just below South Dakota's 13.8% state average, despite carrying the second-highest median household income of $78,125 in this cohort. The $864 monthly rent is higher than average, but strong local earnings keep the proportional burden manageable.
Douglas ranks among South Dakota's better markets
At 13.3%, Douglas County's rent-to-income ratio edges below the state average of 13.8%, placing it in the more affordable half of South Dakota counties. The county's strong median income of $78,125 helps offset its higher rental costs.
Douglas commands higher rent, offset by higher income
Douglas County's $864 rent is the highest among these eight counties, but its $78,125 median income keeps the overall burden at 13.3%—better than Davison, Dewey, and Faulk. This suggests Douglas offers value for higher-earning households willing to accept premium rental prices.
Douglas rewards earned income with affordability
Renters allocate $864 monthly while homeowners invest $712 in ownership costs, with median home values at just $125,000—the second-lowest in this group. Housing consumes 13.3% of household income, making Douglas workable for households earning above the county median.
Douglas suits higher-income relocators
Douglas County works best for relocators earning above $78,000 who can absorb the region's highest rents while maintaining healthy affordability ratios. Compare Douglas to Deuel County if you prioritize absolute lowest costs, or Edmunds if you want mid-range balance.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Douglas County
Rent Burden
13.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,823
per month
Owner Cost Burden
10.9%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Douglas County
Median home value is $125,000. Estimated monthly cost: $998 vs. your max of $1,823.
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.