Hanson County, South Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Hanson County is located in South Dakota with a total population of 3,473. It is the 44th most populous county out of 66 in South Dakota. The county encompasses 4 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Hanson County is 37.9 years. This is about average than the state median of 37.7 years. With 29.4% of the population under 18, Hanson County has a notably young demographic profile, suggesting a family-oriented community.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Hanson County is $86,375. This is 19% higher than the state median of $72,421. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 10% higher. The poverty rate stands at 6.2%. This is 48% lower than the state poverty rate of 12.0%. The unemployment rate is 1.6%. This is 48% lower than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $192,400. Housing costs are 19% lower than the state median of $236,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.2x, Hanson County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 88.6% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 29% higher than the state average of 68.6%.

Race & Ethnicity

Hanson County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 93.1% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 1.2%. The Black or African American population (0.4%) is well below the state average of 2.2%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.2%) is well below the state average of 4.6%.

Education

21.6% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 31% 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 92.3%.