Chester, SD
Population 215 · South Dakota
About Chester, SD
Chester is a small community located in South Dakota with a population of 215 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $67,417 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 47.4 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 Chester features a median home value of $128,400, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Chester one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,098, 6% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 133 total housing units, 80% are owner-occupied (94 units) and 20% are renter-occupied (23 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Chester shows an unemployment rate of 5.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 1.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Chester have an average one-way commute time of 28.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
30.1% of Chester residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 6.5% 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 Chester, SD
Compared to national averages, Chester has a median household income of $67,417 (10% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $128,400, which is 48% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,098 is 6% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Dakota, Chester's income is 4% above the state average of $64,650, and home values are 11% below the state median of $143,757.
Why Live in Chester, SD?
Chester offers affordable housing with a median home value of $128,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,098/month, and a low poverty rate of 1.4%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($67,417) that falls below the national average. However, Chester’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Chester has a population of 215 with a median age of 47.4 years. Compare Chester with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Dakota.
Similar Cities Near Chester
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 Chester With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Chester
What is the population of Chester, SD?
The population of Chester, SD is 215 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 Chester?
The median household income in Chester, SD is $67,417 per year, which is 10% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Chester?
The median home value in Chester, SD is $128,400, which is 48% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Chester?
The median monthly rent in Chester, SD is $1,098, which is 6% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Chester?
The unemployment rate in Chester, SD is 5.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Chester, SD a good place to live?
Chester offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 215 and a median age of 47.4, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Chester, SD?
30.1% of residents in Chester 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 Chester?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Chester, SD: median home value is $128,400 (48% below national), median rent is $1,098/month, and median household income is $67,417. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Chester?
The poverty rate in Chester, SD is 1.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Chester, SD?
Chester's population is 0.0% White, 6.5% 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.