Potter County, South Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Potter County is located in South Dakota with a total population of 2,430. It is the 52nd most populous county out of 66 in South Dakota. The county encompasses 4 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Potter County is 44.9 years. This is 19% higher than the state median of 37.7 years. 13.0% 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 Potter County is $71,726. This is about average than the state median of $72,421. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 9% lower. The poverty rate stands at 7.7%. This is 36% lower than the state poverty rate of 12.0%. The unemployment rate is 2.9%. This is 4% lower than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $121,300. Housing costs are 49% lower than the state median of $236,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 1.7x, Potter County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 78.8% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 15% higher than the state average of 68.6%.

Race & Ethnicity

Potter County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 90.4% of all residents. Black or African American residents account for 1.9%.

Education

26.6% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 14% 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 97.7%.