Mellette County, South Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Mellette County is located in South Dakota with a total population of 2,043. It is the 58th most populous county out of 66 in South Dakota. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Mellette County is 31.0 years. This is 18% lower than the state median of 37.7 years. With 31.6% of the population under 18, Mellette County has a notably young demographic profile, suggesting a family-oriented community.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Mellette County is $51,364. This is 29% lower than the state median of $72,421. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 35% lower. The poverty rate stands at 46.2%. This is 285% 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 14.7%. This is 389% higher than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $63,000. Housing costs are 73% lower than the state median of $236,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.2x, Mellette County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 59.9% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 13% lower than the state average of 68.6%.

Race & Ethnicity

Mellette County is a highly diverse community where no single racial or ethnic group constitutes a majority of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 0.3%. The White (non-Hispanic) population (31.6%) is well below the state average of 80.3%. The Black or African American population (0.2%) is well below the state average of 2.2%. The Hispanic or Latino population (0.3%) is well below the state average of 4.6%.

Education

16.3% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is among the lowest rates in the state, which may correlate with employment and income patterns. This is 47% 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 84.6%.