McCook County, South Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

McCook County is located in South Dakota with a total population of 5,732. It is the 30th most populous county out of 66 in South Dakota. The county encompasses 5 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in McCook County is 39.9 years. This is 6% higher than the state median of 37.7 years. With 28.3% of the population under 18, McCook County has a notably young demographic profile, suggesting a family-oriented community.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in McCook County is $80,847. This is 12% higher than the state median of $72,421. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 3% higher. The poverty rate stands at 7.4%. This is 38% lower than the state poverty rate of 12.0%. The unemployment rate is 1.7%. This is 42% lower than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $217,300. Housing costs are 8% lower than the state median of $236,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.7x, McCook County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 81.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 19% higher than the state average of 68.6%.

Race & Ethnicity

McCook County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 93.3% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 3.4%. The Black or African American population (0.3%) is well below the state average of 2.2%.

Education

28.7% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 8% 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 93.5%.