Buffalo, SD
Population 282 · South Dakota
About Buffalo, SD
Buffalo is a small community located in South Dakota with a population of 282 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $81,607 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 54.6 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 Buffalo features a median home value of $112,500, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Buffalo one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $583, 50% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 230 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (125 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (36 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Buffalo shows an unemployment rate of 1.6%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 6.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Buffalo have an average one-way commute time of 8 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
20.4% of Buffalo 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 2.5% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 1.4% of the population being foreign-born.
How Buffalo Ranks in South Dakota
Cost of Living in Buffalo, SD
Compared to national averages, Buffalo has a median household income of $81,607 (9% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $112,500, which is 54% below the national median. Monthly rent at $583 is 50% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Dakota, Buffalo's income is 26% above the state average of $64,650, and home values are 22% below the state median of $143,757.
Why Live in Buffalo, SD?
Buffalo offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $81,607, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $112,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $583/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.6%, and a low poverty rate of 6.0%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 8 minutes.
Buffalo has a population of 282 with a median age of 54.6 years. Compare Buffalo with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Dakota.
Similar Cities Near Buffalo
Cities in South Dakota with a similar population size.
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 Buffalo With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Buffalo
What is the population of Buffalo, SD?
The population of Buffalo, SD is 282 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 Buffalo?
The median household income in Buffalo, SD is $81,607 per year, which is 9% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Buffalo?
The median home value in Buffalo, SD is $112,500, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Buffalo?
The median monthly rent in Buffalo, SD is $583, which is 50% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Buffalo?
The unemployment rate in Buffalo, SD is 1.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Buffalo, SD a good place to live?
Buffalo offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 282 and a median age of 54.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Buffalo, SD?
20.4% of residents in Buffalo 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 Buffalo?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Buffalo, SD: median home value is $112,500 (54% below national), median rent is $583/month, and median household income is $81,607. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Buffalo?
The poverty rate in Buffalo, SD is 6.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Buffalo, SD?
Buffalo's population is 2.5% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.4% of residents are foreign-born.