Lyman County, South Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Lyman County is located in South Dakota with a total population of 3,717. It is the 43rd most populous county out of 66 in South Dakota. The county encompasses 4 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Lyman County is 36.0 years. This is 5% lower than the state median of 37.7 years. With 28.3% of the population under 18, Lyman County has a notably young demographic profile, suggesting a family-oriented community.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Lyman County is $61,169. This is 16% lower than the state median of $72,421. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 22% lower. The poverty rate stands at 24.6%. This is 105% 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 3.7%. This is 24% higher than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $156,500. Housing costs are 34% lower than the state median of $236,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.6x, Lyman County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 72.2% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 5% higher than the state average of 68.6%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Lyman County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 57.4% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 0.8%. The Hispanic or Latino population (0.8%) is well below the state average of 4.6%. The Asian population (0.0%) is well below the state average of 1.4%.

Education

25.3% 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 91.0%.