Bristol, SD
Population 245 · South Dakota
About Bristol, SD
Bristol is a small community located in South Dakota with a population of 245 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $51,250 per year, which is 32% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 52.4 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Bristol features a median home value of $61,700, which is 75% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Bristol one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $738, 37% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 150 total housing units, 80% are owner-occupied (97 units) and 20% are renter-occupied (24 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Bristol shows an unemployment rate of 5.0%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 11.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Bristol have an average one-way commute time of 20 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.3% of Bristol residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 4.1% White, 6.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Bristol, SD
Compared to national averages, Bristol has a median household income of $51,250 (32% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $61,700, which is 75% below the national median. Monthly rent at $738 is 37% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Dakota, Bristol's income is 21% below the state average of $64,650, and home values are 57% below the state median of $143,757.
Why Live in Bristol, SD?
Bristol offers affordable housing with a median home value of $61,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $738/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.9%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 20 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($51,250) that falls below the national average. However, Bristol’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Bristol has a population of 245 with a median age of 52.4 years. Compare Bristol with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Dakota.
Similar Cities Near Bristol
Cities in South Dakota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Henry | 246 | $27,254 | $85,100 | Compare |
| Pine Lakes Addition | 243 | $192,813 | $567,000 | Compare |
| Hosmer | 249 | $65,179 | $52,700 | Compare |
| Renner Corner | 249 | $93,967 | $625,000 | Compare |
| Monroe | 239 | $37,031 | $46,500 | Compare |
| Stickney | 251 | $58,333 | $99,400 | Compare |
| Doland | 237 | $62,604 | $52,600 | Compare |
| New Effington | 236 | $48,558 | $56,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in South Dakota
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Bristol With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Bristol
What is the population of Bristol, SD?
The population of Bristol, SD is 245 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in South Dakota.
What is the median household income in Bristol?
The median household income in Bristol, SD is $51,250 per year, which is 32% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Bristol?
The median home value in Bristol, SD is $61,700, which is 75% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Bristol?
The median monthly rent in Bristol, SD is $738, which is 37% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Bristol?
The unemployment rate in Bristol, SD is 5.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Bristol, SD a good place to live?
Bristol offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 245 and a median age of 52.4, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Bristol, SD?
13.3% of residents in Bristol aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Bristol?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Bristol, SD: median home value is $61,700 (75% below national), median rent is $738/month, and median household income is $51,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Bristol?
The poverty rate in Bristol, SD is 11.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Bristol, SD?
Bristol's population is 4.1% White, 6.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.