Oglala Lakota County, South Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Oglala Lakota County is located in South Dakota with a total population of 13,587. It is the 15th most populous county out of 66 in South Dakota. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Oglala Lakota County is 27.0 years. This is 28% lower than the state median of 37.7 years. With 36.1% of the population under 18, Oglala Lakota County has a notably young demographic profile, suggesting a family-oriented community.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Oglala Lakota County is $34,769. This is 52% lower than the state median of $72,421. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 56% lower. The poverty rate stands at 52.8%. This is 340% 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 13.0%. This is 332% higher than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $45,600. Housing costs are 81% lower than the state median of $236,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.3x, Oglala Lakota County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 53.5% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 22% lower than the state average of 68.6%.

Race & Ethnicity

Oglala Lakota 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 1.7%. The White (non-Hispanic) population (6.6%) is well below the state average of 80.3%. The Black or African American population (0.1%) is well below the state average of 2.2%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.7%) is well below the state average of 4.6%.

Education

9.8% 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 69% 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 78.0%.