Cost of Living in Union County, South Dakota
At a Glance
Rent burden measured as median gross rent as a percentage of renter household income (Census ACS B25071)
How Union County Compares
Median monthly rent comparison
Detailed Housing Stats
National Ranking
Affordability Rank
Union County ranks #1,454 of 3,144 counties for affordability (top 46%)
Data Story
About Cost of Living in Union County, South Dakota
Union County rents remain manageable overall
Despite higher absolute rents, Union County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.1% reflects the county's stronger median household income of $84,137, which exceeds both the South Dakota and national averages. At $1,055 monthly rent, Union County residents spend a smaller percentage of earnings on housing than income-constrained neighbors.
South Dakota's highest earners live here
Union County ranks among South Dakota's most affluent counties, with median household income significantly above the state average, offsetting relatively high rental costs. The rent-to-income ratio of 15.1% places it slightly above the state average, but strong incomes ease the burden.
Union County commands premium rents
Union County's median rent of $1,055 is the highest in the region, reflecting its positioning as the most prosperous county in this group. However, the median household income of $84,137 also leads the region, allowing residents to afford these premium rents more comfortably.
Homeownership stretches budgets most
Renters spend 15.1% of income on housing, while homeowners allocate roughly 17.9% to monthly ownership costs ($1,255 against $84,137 income). Union County's median home value of $269,500 places it among the state's priciest real estate, requiring substantial household finances to purchase.
Union County for well-compensated relocators
Union County suits remote workers and professionals earning above regional averages, offering higher-end housing options and stronger household incomes. If relocating here, verify that your compensation aligns with the county's elevated housing costs—rents and home values lead the region significantly.
Cost of Living Advisory: Union County
Affordability Verdict
Union County offers affordable rental housing at a median of $1,055/month — about 15.0% of the typical household income here.
Rent vs. Own
At $1,055/month rent versus $1,255/month in owner costs, renting is roughly $200/month cheaper — a 16% difference.
Income Needed
To afford the median rent without exceeding 30% of gross income, a household needs to earn approximately $42,200/year. For owner costs at the 28% rule, the required income is roughly $53,786/year. With a median household income of $84,137, most households can comfortably afford rent here. Notably, 24.0% of renter households in Union County are cost-burdened, spending more than 30% of income on housing.
Regional Context
Compared to Custer County where rent averages $1,117/month, Union County is approximately 6% less expensive.
Affordability Calculator
See how your income compares to housing costs in Union County
Rent Burden
15.0%
of gross income
Max Housing (28% Rule)
$1,963
per month
Owner Cost Burden
17.9%
of gross income
The median home in Union County may be a stretch
Median home value is $269,500. Estimated monthly cost: $2,152 vs. your max of $1,963.
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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