White River, SD
Population 712 · South Dakota
About White River, SD
White River is a small community located in South Dakota with a population of 712 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $80,625 per year, which is 7% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 27.9 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 White River features a median home value of $59,800, which is 76% below the national median of $244,900. This makes White River one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,067, 8% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 247 total housing units, 54% are owner-occupied (107 units) and 46% are renter-occupied (92 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in White River 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 31.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in White River have an average one-way commute time of 17.5 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
18.2% of White River 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, 67.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How White River Ranks in South Dakota
Cost of Living in White River, SD
Compared to national averages, White River has a median household income of $80,625 (7% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $59,800, which is 76% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,067 is 8% below the US average of $1,163. Within South Dakota, White River's income is 25% above the state average of $64,650, and home values are 58% below the state median of $143,757.
Why Live in White River, SD?
White River offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $80,625, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $59,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,067/month. Additionally, the city features a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%, and short commute times averaging just 17.5 minutes.
White River has a population of 712 with a median age of 27.9 years. Compare White River with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in South Dakota.
Similar Cities Near White River
Cities in South Dakota with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highmore | 717 | $99,500 | $111,500 | Compare |
| Jefferson | 717 | $81,149 | $177,900 | 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 |
| Blucksberg Mountain | 683 | $95,658 | $347,200 | Compare |
| Wanblee | 744 | $0 | $0 | 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 White River With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about White River
What is the population of White River, SD?
The population of White River, SD is 712 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 White River?
The median household income in White River, SD is $80,625 per year, which is 7% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in White River?
The median home value in White River, SD is $59,800, which is 76% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in White River?
The median monthly rent in White River, SD is $1,067, which is 8% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in White River?
The unemployment rate in White River, 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 White River, SD a good place to live?
White River offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 712 and a median age of 27.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is White River, SD?
18.2% of residents in White River 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 White River?
Key cost-of-living indicators for White River, SD: median home value is $59,800 (76% below national), median rent is $1,067/month, and median household income is $80,625. The home-value-to-income ratio is 0.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in White River?
The poverty rate in White River, SD is 31.4%, 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 White River, SD?
White River's population is 0.0% White, 67.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.7% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.