Cost of Living in Jones County, South Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Jones County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Jones County ranks #695 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 22%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Jones County, South Dakota
Jones County keeps rents very affordable
Renters in Jones County spend 10.1% of their income on housing, beating both the national average and South Dakota's 13.8% state benchmark. At $544 monthly rent against a $64,688 median income, the county delivers solid affordability despite lower household earnings.
Top-tier affordability in South Dakota
Jones County's 10.1% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the best in South Dakota, outperformed only by Jerauld and Hutchinson counties. Strong affordability here reflects both low rents and reasonable household income levels relative to state standards.
Lowest rents in the county comparison
At $544 monthly, Jones offers the cheapest median rent across all eight counties analyzed, beating Jerauld ($565) and significantly undercutting regional peers. This rental advantage makes Jones particularly attractive for cost-conscious renters.
Rent claims just one-tenth of income
Renters dedicate $544 of their $64,688 annual income to housing, consuming only 10.1% of earnings and freeing substantial resources for other needs. Homeowners face a higher $854 monthly cost, representing 15.8% of income—still well within acceptable limits.
Jones County rewards value-seeking renters
Jones County combines the region's lowest rents with above-average affordability metrics, making it an excellent choice for renters prioritizing housing costs. While homeownership costs are slightly steeper, the county's overall affordability profile remains competitive across South Dakota.
Cost of Living Advisory: Jones County
Affordability Verdict
Jones County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $544/month — about 10.1% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Jones County pay $544/month on average, compared to $854/month for homeowners. This market favors renters by about 36%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $21,760/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $36,600/year. With a median household income of $64,688, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 14.0% of renter households in Jones County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within South Dakota, Jones County is less affordable than Lyman County by roughly 10% ($544/mo vs $603/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Jones County
Rent Burden
10.1%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,509
per month
Owner Cost Burden
15.8%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Jones County
Median home value is $117,100. Estimated monthly cost: $935 vs. your max of $1,509.
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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