Cost of Living in Lincoln County, South Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Lincoln County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Lincoln County, South Dakota
Lincoln County rents strain higher earners
At 15.4%, Lincoln County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national benchmark of affordability by about 2 percentage points—meaning renters here dedicate more of their paychecks to housing than typical Americans. However, median household income of $96,552 significantly outpaces the national median of $74,755, giving residents more purchasing power despite the higher cost burden.
Above average rent burden for South Dakota
Lincoln County's 15.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks above South Dakota's state average of 13.8%, placing it among the less affordable counties in the state. With median rent at $1,237 monthly—63% higher than the state average of $756—Lincoln is the most expensive rental market in this eight-county comparison.
Priciest rents in a rural region
Lincoln County's $1,237 median rent nearly doubles that of neighboring Marshall County ($743) and McCook County ($750), reflecting its stronger economy and likely proximity to employment centers. Among all eight counties analyzed, only Meade County ($1,150) approaches Lincoln's rental costs, making both outliers in South Dakota's rural housing market.
Balancing rent and homeownership costs
Renters in Lincoln County spend $1,237 monthly, while homeowners face $1,555 in monthly costs against a median income of $96,552. This means housing consumes roughly 15-19% of gross household income—manageable for this county's above-average earners, though still elevated compared to state peers.
High income, high cost tradeoff
Lincoln County attracts professionals with its strong incomes and higher home values ($323,500 median), but prospective renters should weigh the premium rent burden against nearby options like McCook County. If you're relocating for work, Lincoln's affordability gap shrinks considerably once household income exceeds $96,000.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Lincoln County
Rent Burden
15.4%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$2,253
per month
Owner Cost Burden
19.3%
of gross income
The median home in Lincoln County may be a stretch
Median home value is $323,500. Estimated monthly cost: $2,583 vs. your max of $2,253.
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.