Custer, SD
Population 2,148 · South Dakota
About Custer, SD
Custer is a small town located in South Dakota with a population of 2,148 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $80,188 per year, which is 7% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 54.9 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 Custer features a median home value of $229,500, which is 6% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Custer in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $926, 20% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,281 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (680 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (351 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Custer shows an unemployment rate of 3.2%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 9.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Custer have an average one-way commute time of 20.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
30.1% of Custer 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 1.3% White, 6.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 2.6% of the population being foreign-born.
How Custer Ranks in South Dakota
Cost of Living in Custer, SD
Compared to national averages, Custer has a median household income of $80,188 (7% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $229,500, which is 6% below the national median. Monthly rent at $926 is 20% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Dakota, Custer's income is 24% above the state average of $64,650, and home values are 60% above the state median of $143,757.
Why Live in Custer, SD?
Custer offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $80,188, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $229,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $926/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.2%, and a low poverty rate of 9.8%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 20.5 minutes.
Custer has a population of 2,148 with a median age of 54.9 years. Compare Custer with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Dakota.
Similar Cities Near Custer
Cities in South Dakota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Spearfish | 2,201 | $69,792 | $321,800 | Compare |
| Springfield | 2,073 | $59,063 | $126,800 | Compare |
| Redfield | 2,230 | $60,586 | $117,000 | Compare |
| Volga | 2,246 | $75,417 | $220,200 | Compare |
| Flandreau | 2,291 | $56,458 | $130,800 | Compare |
| Parkston | 1,981 | $71,313 | $145,500 | Compare |
| Colonial Pine Hills | 2,347 | $82,262 | $348,400 | Compare |
| Elk Point | 2,391 | $83,250 | $228,400 | 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 Custer With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Custer
What is the population of Custer, SD?
The population of Custer, SD is 2,148 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in South Dakota.
What is the median household income in Custer?
The median household income in Custer, SD is $80,188 per year, which is 7% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Custer?
The median home value in Custer, SD is $229,500, which is 6% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Custer?
The median monthly rent in Custer, SD is $926, which is 20% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Custer?
The unemployment rate in Custer, SD is 3.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Custer, SD a good place to live?
Custer offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 2,148 and a median age of 54.9, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Custer, SD?
30.1% of residents in Custer 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 Custer?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Custer, SD: median home value is $229,500 (6% below national), median rent is $926/month, and median household income is $80,188. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Custer?
The poverty rate in Custer, SD is 9.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Custer, SD?
Custer's population is 1.3% White, 6.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 2.6% of residents are foreign-born.