Cost of Living in Hamlin County, South Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Hamlin County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Hamlin County ranks #858 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 27%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Hamlin County, South Dakota
Hamlin County: Premium incomes, solid affordability
Hamlin County's rent-to-income ratio of 11.1% beats both the state average (13.8%) and reflects a median household income of $83,194, well above the national average of $74,755. The county demonstrates how higher incomes make housing—even slightly pricier housing—more affordable overall.
Highest incomes enable strong affordability
Among these eight counties, Hamlin ranks among the highest-earning with a $83,194 median income, enabling an 11.1% rent-to-income ratio that outpaces the state average. The county's economic strength translates directly into comfortable housing affordability despite slightly elevated rents.
Premium rents, premium incomes—balanced equation
Hamlin County's $769 median rent is among the higher region, but strong $83,194 median incomes offset the cost more effectively than lower-earning counties. Renters here spend 11.1% on housing—better than most peers—thanks to robust local earning power.
Strong incomes make higher costs manageable
Hamlin County renters pay $769 monthly and homeowners pay $1,018, both above county medians but sustainable on a $83,194 median income. At 11.1% of income spent on rent, households retain substantial earnings for discretionary spending, savings, and investment.
Economic vitality meets housing affordability
Hamlin County rewards residents with strong incomes and reasonable housing affordability—a rare combination in rural South Dakota. If your income reaches or exceeds the county median of $83,194, you'll find housing costs manageable and lifestyle quality high.
Cost of Living Advisory: Hamlin County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Hamlin County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $769/month in gross rent, with 20.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $769/month rent versus $1,018/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $249/month cheaper — a 24% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $30,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $43,629/year. With a median household income of $83,194, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 20.0% of renter households in Hamlin County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Hamlin County sits 7% more expensive than Sanborn County ($717/month) in terms of median gross rent.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Hamlin County
Rent Burden
11.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,941
per month
Owner Cost Burden
14.7%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Hamlin County
Median home value is $207,700. Estimated monthly cost: $1,658 vs. your max of $1,941.
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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