Ethan, SD
Population 263 · South Dakota
About Ethan, SD
Ethan is a small community located in South Dakota with a population of 263 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $54,688 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 28.1 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Ethan features a median home value of $134,400, which is 45% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Ethan one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $777, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 106 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (67 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (34 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Ethan shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 14.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Ethan have an average one-way commute time of 28.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.6% of Ethan 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 12.9% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.9% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 8.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Ethan, SD
Compared to national averages, Ethan has a median household income of $54,688 (27% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $134,400, which is 45% below the national median. Monthly rent at $777 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Dakota, Ethan's income is 15% below the state average of $64,650, and home values are 7% below the state median of $143,757.
Why Live in Ethan, SD?
Ethan offers affordable housing with a median home value of $134,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $777/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($54,688) that falls below the national average. However, Ethan’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ethan has a population of 263 with a median age of 28.1 years. Compare Ethan with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Dakota.
Similar Cities Near Ethan
Cities in South Dakota with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Other Cities in South Dakota
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Ethan
What is the population of Ethan, SD?
The population of Ethan, SD is 263 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 Ethan?
The median household income in Ethan, SD is $54,688 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Ethan?
The median home value in Ethan, SD is $134,400, which is 45% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Ethan?
The median monthly rent in Ethan, SD is $777, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Ethan?
The unemployment rate in Ethan, SD is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Ethan, SD a good place to live?
Ethan offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 263 and a median age of 28.1, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Ethan, SD?
16.6% of residents in Ethan 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 Ethan?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Ethan, SD: median home value is $134,400 (45% below national), median rent is $777/month, and median household income is $54,688. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Ethan?
The poverty rate in Ethan, SD is 14.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Ethan, SD?
Ethan's population is 12.9% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.9% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 8.7% of residents are foreign-born.