Custer County, South Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Custer County is located in South Dakota with a total population of 8,686. It is the 22nd most populous county out of 66 in South Dakota. The county encompasses 4 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Custer County is 57.2 years. This is 52% higher than the state median of 37.7 years. Only 13.8% of residents are under 18, indicating fewer families with children. 11.3% of residents are 75 or older, suggesting a significant retirement-age population with implications for healthcare services and senior housing.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Custer County is $81,958. This is 13% higher than the state median of $72,421. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 4% higher. The poverty rate stands at 6.6%. This is 45% lower than the state poverty rate of 12.0%. The unemployment rate is 2.0%. This is 32% lower than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $327,200. Housing costs are 38% higher than the state median of $236,800. The home-value-to-income ratio is 4.0x. 85.6% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 25% higher than the state average of 68.6%.

Race & Ethnicity

Custer County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 89.9% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 2.9%. The Black or African American population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 2.2%. The Asian population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 1.4%.

Education

32.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 3% higher 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 95.0%.