Corson County, South Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Corson County is located in South Dakota with a total population of 3,859. It is the 42nd most populous county out of 66 in South Dakota. The county encompasses 3 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Corson County is 29.9 years. This is 21% lower than the state median of 37.7 years. With 35.5% of the population under 18, Corson County has a notably young demographic profile, suggesting a family-oriented community.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Corson County is $43,750. This is 40% lower than the state median of $72,421. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 44% lower. The poverty rate stands at 45.2%. This is 276% 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 23.3%. This is 675% higher than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $73,800. Housing costs are 69% lower than the state median of $236,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.7x, Corson County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 60.5% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 12% lower than the state average of 68.6%.

Race & Ethnicity

Corson County is a highly diverse community where no single racial or ethnic group constitutes a majority of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 0.4%. The White (non-Hispanic) population (30.1%) is well below the state average of 80.3%. The Black or African American population (0.1%) is well below the state average of 2.2%. The Hispanic or Latino population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 4.6%.

Education

19.2% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 38% 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 86.8%.