Jefferson, SD
Population 717 · South Dakota
About Jefferson, SD
Jefferson is a small community located in South Dakota with a population of 717 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $81,149 per year, which is 8% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34 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 Jefferson features a median home value of $177,900, which is 27% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Jefferson in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 326 total housing units, 87% are owner-occupied (274 units) and 13% are renter-occupied (42 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Jefferson shows an unemployment rate of 9.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 3.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Jefferson have an average one-way commute time of 24.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
24.8% of Jefferson 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 5.9% White, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 3.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Jefferson, SD
Compared to national averages, Jefferson has a median household income of $81,149 (8% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $177,900, which is 27% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Dakota, Jefferson's income is 26% above the state average of $64,650, and home values are 24% above the state median of $143,757.
Why Live in Jefferson, SD?
Jefferson offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $81,149, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $177,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 3.2%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 24.4 minutes.
Jefferson has a population of 717 with a median age of 34 years. Compare Jefferson with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Dakota.
Similar Cities Near Jefferson
Cities in South Dakota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highmore | 717 | $99,500 | $111,500 | Compare |
| White River | 712 | $80,625 | $59,800 | Compare |
| Manderson-White Horse Creek | 723 | $22,596 | $0 | Compare |
| Alexandria | 725 | $92,500 | $168,300 | Compare |
| Hill City | 699 | $85,714 | $246,700 | Compare |
| Menno | 736 | $61,250 | $103,200 | Compare |
| Wanblee | 744 | $0 | $0 | Compare |
| Whitewood | 746 | $67,250 | $214,200 | 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 Jefferson With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Jefferson
What is the population of Jefferson, SD?
The population of Jefferson, SD is 717 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 Jefferson?
The median household income in Jefferson, SD is $81,149 per year, which is 8% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Jefferson?
The median home value in Jefferson, SD is $177,900, which is 27% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Jefferson?
The median monthly rent in Jefferson, SD is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Jefferson?
The unemployment rate in Jefferson, SD is 9.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Jefferson, SD a good place to live?
Jefferson offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 717 and a median age of 34, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Jefferson, SD?
24.8% of residents in Jefferson 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 Jefferson?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Jefferson, SD: median home value is $177,900 (27% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $81,149. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Jefferson?
The poverty rate in Jefferson, SD is 3.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Jefferson, SD?
Jefferson's population is 5.9% White, 4.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.9% of residents are foreign-born.