Irene, SD
Population 521 · South Dakota
About Irene, SD
Irene is a small community located in South Dakota with a population of 521 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $59,091 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Irene features a median home value of $87,100, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Irene one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $781, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 228 total housing units, 64% are owner-occupied (142 units) and 36% are renter-occupied (80 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Irene 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 15.0%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Irene have an average one-way commute time of 32.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.9% of Irene 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 0.0% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 4.6% Asian residents, with 3.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Irene, SD
Compared to national averages, Irene has a median household income of $59,091 (21% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $87,100, which is 64% below the national median. Monthly rent at $781 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Dakota, Irene's income is 9% below the state average of $64,650, and home values are 39% below the state median of $143,757.
Why Live in Irene, SD?
Irene offers affordable housing with a median home value of $87,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $781/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($59,091) that falls below the national average. However, Irene’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Irene has a population of 521 with a median age of 37.3 years. Compare Irene with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Dakota.
Similar Cities Near Irene
Cities in South Dakota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montrose | 514 | $86,000 | $216,700 | Compare |
| Oacoma | 505 | $70,250 | $165,800 | Compare |
| New Underwood | 538 | $54,167 | $188,700 | Compare |
| Lake Preston | 539 | $60,917 | $139,100 | Compare |
| Prairiewood Village | 496 | $118,681 | $443,500 | Compare |
| Newell | 494 | $52,277 | $120,100 | Compare |
| Warner | 494 | $114,375 | $231,600 | Compare |
| Herreid | 549 | $68,611 | $87,400 | 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 Irene With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Irene
What is the population of Irene, SD?
The population of Irene, SD is 521 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 Irene?
The median household income in Irene, SD is $59,091 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Irene?
The median home value in Irene, SD is $87,100, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Irene?
The median monthly rent in Irene, SD is $781, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Irene?
The unemployment rate in Irene, 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 Irene, SD a good place to live?
Irene offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 521 and a median age of 37.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Irene, SD?
15.9% of residents in Irene 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 Irene?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Irene, SD: median home value is $87,100 (64% below national), median rent is $781/month, and median household income is $59,091. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Irene?
The poverty rate in Irene, SD is 15.0%, 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 Irene, SD?
Irene's population is 0.0% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 4.6% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.6% of residents are foreign-born.