Jones County, South Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Jones County is located in South Dakota with a total population of 1,030. It is the 66th most populous county out of 66 in South Dakota. The county encompasses 2 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Jones County is 33.6 years. This is 11% lower than the state median of 37.7 years. With 31.8% of the population under 18, Jones County has a notably young demographic profile, suggesting a family-oriented community. 10.5% 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 Jones County is $64,688. This is 11% lower than the state median of $72,421. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 18% lower. The poverty rate stands at 15.8%. This is 32% higher than the state poverty rate of 12.0%. The unemployment rate is 0.0%. This is 100% lower than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $117,100. Housing costs are 51% lower than the state median of $236,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.8x, Jones County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 73.5% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 7% higher than the state average of 68.6%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Jones County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 82.9% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 1.1%. The Black or African American population (0.8%) is well below the state average of 2.2%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.1%) is well below the state average of 4.6%.

Education

25.4% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 18% 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 95.5%.