Parker, SD
Population 1,247 · South Dakota
About Parker, SD
Parker is a small town located in South Dakota with a population of 1,247 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $87,632 per year, which is 17% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Parker features a median home value of $208,000, which is 15% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Parker in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $923, 21% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 553 total housing units, 78% are owner-occupied (400 units) and 22% are renter-occupied (114 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Parker shows an unemployment rate of 2.1%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 6.7%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Parker have an average one-way commute time of 25.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
19.1% of Parker 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 0.2% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 6.0% Asian residents, with 2.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Parker, SD
Compared to national averages, Parker has a median household income of $87,632 (17% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $208,000, which is 15% below the national median. Monthly rent at $923 is 21% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Dakota, Parker's income is 36% above the state average of $64,650, and home values are 45% above the state median of $143,757.
Why Live in Parker, SD?
Parker offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $87,632, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $208,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $923/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.1%, and a low poverty rate of 6.7%, better than the national average.
Parker has a population of 1,247 with a median age of 36.9 years. Compare Parker with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Dakota.
Similar Cities Near Parker
Cities in South Dakota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crooks | 1,216 | $104,479 | $270,500 | Compare |
| Lemmon | 1,214 | $42,461 | $79,700 | Compare |
| Tyndall | 1,206 | $51,719 | $94,200 | Compare |
| Salem | 1,201 | $71,655 | $163,500 | Compare |
| Platte | 1,310 | $71,641 | $165,700 | Compare |
| Clark | 1,181 | $49,464 | $125,700 | Compare |
| Deadwood | 1,319 | $52,679 | $227,000 | Compare |
| Garretson | 1,166 | $66,375 | $197,400 | 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 Parker With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Parker
What is the population of Parker, SD?
The population of Parker, SD is 1,247 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in South Dakota.
What is the median household income in Parker?
The median household income in Parker, SD is $87,632 per year, which is 17% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Parker?
The median home value in Parker, SD is $208,000, which is 15% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Parker?
The median monthly rent in Parker, SD is $923, which is 21% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Parker?
The unemployment rate in Parker, SD is 2.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Parker, SD a good place to live?
Parker offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,247 and a median age of 36.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Parker, SD?
19.1% of residents in Parker 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 Parker?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Parker, SD: median home value is $208,000 (15% below national), median rent is $923/month, and median household income is $87,632. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Parker?
The poverty rate in Parker, SD is 6.7%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Parker, SD?
Parker's population is 0.2% White, 1.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 6.0% Asian, and 2.8% two or more races. 2.3% of residents are foreign-born.