Cost of Living in Marshall County, South Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Marshall County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Marshall County ranks #291 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 9%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Marshall County, South Dakota
Marshall County beats national affordability
Marshall County's 12.3% rent-to-income ratio falls comfortably below the national affordability threshold, offering genuine housing relief compared to most American counties. Against a national median household income of $74,755, Marshall's $72,500 income is nearly identical, yet renters dedicate less to housing than the national norm.
South Dakota's middle-ground housing market
Marshall County's 12.3% rent-to-income ratio sits slightly below South Dakota's state average of 13.8%, placing it in the affordability sweet spot. With median rent of $743—just below the state average of $756—Marshall offers stability without the premium costs found in Lincoln or Meade counties.
Affordable option amid varied peers
Marshall County's $743 rent positions it midway between budget markets like Lyman ($603) and pricier Lincoln County ($1,237), making it accessible while maintaining rural character. Its 12.3% rent burden beats McCook County (11.1%) slightly but offers more social amenities typical of county-seat communities.
Rent and homeownership costs align
Renters pay $743 monthly while homeowners spend $730 against a $72,500 household income—a rare case where ownership costs less than renting. Housing claims roughly 12% of gross income either way, leaving room for savings and other expenses.
Balanced affordability for families
Marshall County appeals to families seeking affordable ownership with a $147,200 median home price and rental options around $743. Its position as a middle-ground option—not the cheapest, but well below premium markets—makes it ideal for those prioritizing stability over bargain hunting.
Cost of Living Advisory: Marshall County
Affordability Verdict
Marshall County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $743/month — about 12.3% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Marshall County pay $743/month on average, compared to $730/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 2%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $29,720/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $31,286/year. With a median household income of $72,500, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 18.0% of renter households in Marshall County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within South Dakota, Marshall County is less affordable than Brown County by roughly 6% ($743/mo vs $794/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Marshall County
Rent Burden
12.3%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,692
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.1%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Marshall County
Median home value is $147,200. Estimated monthly cost: $1,175 vs. your max of $1,692.
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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