Cost of Living in Jackson County, South Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jackson County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jackson County ranks #184 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 6%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jackson County, South Dakota
Jackson County faces severe affordability crisis
Renters in Jackson County spend 20.7% of their income on housing—nearly 50% higher than the national benchmark and far above South Dakota's 13.8% average. With a median household income of just $26,686, residents here struggle significantly more than peers elsewhere in the state and nation.
Least affordable county in South Dakota
Jackson County's 20.7% rent-to-income ratio represents the most severe housing affordability burden in South Dakota, driven by extremely low household incomes rather than high rents. This ranking reflects deeper economic challenges that extend beyond the housing market.
Income gap drives affordability crisis
While Jackson's $460 monthly rent is actually the lowest in the region, the county's median household income of $26,686 is roughly one-third that of neighboring counties like Hutchinson or Kingsbury. This income-rent mismatch creates the state's worst housing affordability situation.
Housing dominates household budgets here
Renters allocate $460 monthly to housing from a $26,686 annual income, consuming 20.7% of earnings and leaving limited funds for essentials. Homeowners face a $593 monthly payment, which represents 26.6% of income—a severely unaffordable level.
Weigh opportunity before moving to Jackson
Jackson County's affordability crisis stems from economic conditions, not housing costs alone—prospective residents should carefully assess employment and income opportunities before relocating. While rents are low, the median household income suggests limited local earning potential compared to other South Dakota counties.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jackson County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Jackson County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $460/month in gross rent, with 26.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
At $460/month rent versus $593/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $133/month cheaper — a 22% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $18,400/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $25,414/year. With a median household income of $26,686, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Jackson County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within South Dakota, Jackson County is less affordable than Buffalo County by roughly 14% ($460/mo vs $535/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jackson County
Rent Burden
20.7%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$623
per month
Owner Cost Burden
26.7%
of gross income
The median home in Jackson County may be a stretch
Median home value is $111,500. Estimated monthly cost: $890 vs. your max of $623.
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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