Wakpala, SD
Population 159 · South Dakota
About Wakpala, SD
Wakpala is a small community located in South Dakota with a population of 159 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $22,500 per year, which is 70% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 26.4 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 Wakpala features a median home value of $0, which is 100% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Wakpala one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $433, 63% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 47 total housing units, 29% are owner-occupied (12 units) and 71% are renter-occupied (30 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Wakpala shows an unemployment rate of 46.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 86.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Wakpala have an average one-way commute time of 26.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
6.9% of Wakpala 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, 96.9% Hispanic or Latino, 2.5% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Wakpala Ranks in South Dakota
Cost of Living in Wakpala, SD
Compared to national averages, Wakpala has a median household income of $22,500 (70% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $0, which is 100% below the national median. Monthly rent at $433 is 63% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Dakota, Wakpala's income is 65% below the state average of $64,650, and home values are 100% below the state median of $143,757.
Why Live in Wakpala, SD?
Wakpala offers affordable housing with a median home value of $0, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $433/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($22,500) that falls below the national average. However, Wakpala’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Wakpala has a population of 159 with a median age of 26.4 years. Compare Wakpala with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Dakota.
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Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
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Other Cities in South Dakota
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Wakpala
What is the population of Wakpala, SD?
The population of Wakpala, SD is 159 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 Wakpala?
The median household income in Wakpala, SD is $22,500 per year, which is 70% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Wakpala?
The median home value in Wakpala, SD is $0, which is 100% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Wakpala?
The median monthly rent in Wakpala, SD is $433, which is 63% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Wakpala?
The unemployment rate in Wakpala, SD is 46.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Wakpala, SD a good place to live?
Wakpala offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 159 and a median age of 26.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Wakpala, SD?
6.9% of residents in Wakpala 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 Wakpala?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Wakpala, SD: median home value is $0 (100% below national), median rent is $433/month, and median household income is $22,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Wakpala?
The poverty rate in Wakpala, SD is 86.2%, 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 Wakpala, SD?
Wakpala's population is 0.0% White, 96.9% Hispanic or Latino, 2.5% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.