Cost of Living in Todd County, South Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Todd County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Todd County ranks #1,549 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 49%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Todd County, South Dakota
Todd County faces acute affordability crisis
Todd County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.5% far exceeds the South Dakota state average of 13.8% and signals severe housing affordability strain. With a median household income of just $39,148—barely half the national median of $74,755—renters pay $537 monthly for housing that consumes an outsized portion of household earnings.
South Dakota's most strained housing market
Todd County ranks among the least affordable counties in South Dakota, with income levels significantly below the state average and a rent-to-income ratio well above the state benchmark. The combination of low household incomes and elevated housing cost burdens reveals a county struggling with economic inequality.
Todd County's income crisis magnifies costs
While Todd County's median rent of $537 is the lowest in the region, the median household income of $39,148 is dramatically lower than surrounding counties like Tripp ($58,854) and Walworth ($62,722). This income deficit transforms even modest rents into unaffordable burdens.
Housing dominates household budgets
Renters in Todd County allocate 16.5% of income to rent, while homeowners spend roughly 12.4% on ownership costs ($405 against $39,148 income). For many households, housing consumes a larger share of budget than is sustainable, leaving limited funds for other necessities.
Todd County requires careful consideration
Todd County's combination of low income levels and high housing burden ratios makes it challenging for most relocators unless employment offers substantial local wages. Job seekers should verify local employment conditions before considering a move, as the county's economic fundamentals differ significantly from higher-income neighbors.
Cost of Living Advisory: Todd County
Affordability Verdict
For renters in Todd County, the market is affordable. Expect to pay around $537/month in gross rent, with 20.0% of renter households considered cost-burdened.
Rent vs. Own
Renters in Todd County pay $537/month on average, compared to $405/month for homeowners. This market favors buyers by about 25%.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $21,480/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $17,357/year. With a median household income of $39,148, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 20.0% of renter households in Todd County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Within South Dakota, Todd County is more affordable than Harding County by roughly 12% ($537/mo vs $478/mo).
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Todd County
Rent Burden
16.5%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$913
per month
Owner Cost Burden
12.4%
of gross income
You can likely afford the median home in Todd County
Median home value is $45,200. Estimated monthly cost: $361 vs. your max of $913.
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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