Charles Mix County, South Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Charles Mix County is located in South Dakota with a total population of 9,281. It is the 20th most populous county out of 66 in South Dakota. The county encompasses 6 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Charles Mix County is 36.1 years. This is 4% lower than the state median of 37.7 years. With 30.8% of the population under 18, Charles Mix County has a notably young demographic profile, suggesting a family-oriented community.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Charles Mix County is $64,850. This is 10% lower than the state median of $72,421. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 17% lower. The poverty rate stands at 22.8%. This is 90% higher than the state poverty rate of 12.0%. With more than one in five residents living below the poverty line, economic hardship is a significant challenge for the community. The unemployment rate is 5.9%. This is 95% higher than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $169,200. Housing costs are 29% lower than the state median of $236,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.6x, Charles Mix County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 73.9% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 8% higher than the state average of 68.6%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Charles Mix County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 63.8% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.7%. The Black or African American population (0.1%) is well below the state average of 2.2%. The Asian population (0.5%) is well below the state average of 1.4%.

Education

25.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 19% lower than the state rate of 31.1%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 89.6%.