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
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Lincoln County ranks #2,904 of 3,144 counties for affordability (bottom 8%)
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.
Cost of Living Advisory: Lincoln County
Affordability Verdict
Lincoln County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,237/month — about 15.4% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
The median rent in Lincoln County is $1,237/month, while owner costs run $1,555/month. Renting saves approximately $318/month.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $49,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $66,643/year. With a median household income of $96,552, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 26.0% of renter households in Lincoln County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Lincoln County sits 8% more expensive than Meade County ($1,150/month) in terms of median gross rent.
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
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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