Mellette, SD
Population 144 · South Dakota
About Mellette, SD
Mellette is a small community located in South Dakota with a population of 144 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $104,375 per year, which is 39% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 49 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 Mellette features a median home value of $151,400, which is 38% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Mellette 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 79 total housing units, 88% are owner-occupied (59 units) and 12% are renter-occupied (8 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Mellette 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 12.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Mellette have an average one-way commute time of 20.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.8% of Mellette 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, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 3.5% of the population being foreign-born.
How Mellette Ranks in South Dakota
Cost of Living in Mellette, SD
Compared to national averages, Mellette has a median household income of $104,375 (39% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $151,400, which is 38% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Dakota, Mellette's income is 61% above the state average of $64,650, and home values are 5% above the state median of $143,757.
Why Live in Mellette, SD?
Mellette offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $104,375, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $151,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%, and short commute times averaging just 20.3 minutes.
Mellette has a population of 144 with a median age of 49 years. Compare Mellette 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 Mellette
What is the population of Mellette, SD?
The population of Mellette, SD is 144 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 Mellette?
The median household income in Mellette, SD is $104,375 per year, which is 39% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Mellette?
The median home value in Mellette, SD is $151,400, which is 38% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Mellette?
The median monthly rent in Mellette, SD is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Mellette?
The unemployment rate in Mellette, 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 Mellette, SD a good place to live?
Mellette offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 144 and a median age of 49, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Mellette, SD?
21.8% of residents in Mellette 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 Mellette?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Mellette, SD: median home value is $151,400 (38% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $104,375. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Mellette?
The poverty rate in Mellette, SD is 12.5%, 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 Mellette, SD?
Mellette's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.5% of residents are foreign-born.