Leola, SD
Population 363 · South Dakota
About Leola, SD
Leola is a small community located in South Dakota with a population of 363 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $76,458 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 43.4 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 Leola features a median home value of $66,500, which is 73% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Leola one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $839, 28% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 177 total housing units, 82% are owner-occupied (121 units) and 18% are renter-occupied (26 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Leola shows an unemployment rate of 2.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 4.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Leola have an average one-way commute time of 40.2 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
28.5% of Leola 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, 0.3% 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 Leola, SD
Compared to national averages, Leola has a median household income of $76,458 (2% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $66,500, which is 73% below the national median. Monthly rent at $839 is 28% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Dakota, Leola's income is 18% above the state average of $64,650, and home values are 54% below the state median of $143,757.
Why Live in Leola, SD?
Leola offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $76,458, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $66,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $839/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.7%, and a low poverty rate of 4.4%, better than the national average.
Leola has a population of 363 with a median age of 43.4 years. Compare Leola with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Dakota.
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Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Leola
What is the population of Leola, SD?
The population of Leola, SD is 363 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 Leola?
The median household income in Leola, SD is $76,458 per year, which is 2% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Leola?
The median home value in Leola, SD is $66,500, which is 73% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Leola?
The median monthly rent in Leola, SD is $839, which is 28% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Leola?
The unemployment rate in Leola, SD is 2.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Leola, SD a good place to live?
Leola offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 363 and a median age of 43.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Leola, SD?
28.5% of residents in Leola 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 Leola?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Leola, SD: median home value is $66,500 (73% below national), median rent is $839/month, and median household income is $76,458. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Leola?
The poverty rate in Leola, SD is 4.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Leola, SD?
Leola's population is 0.0% White, 0.3% 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.