Spencer city, South Dakota Demographics & Population 2026
As of 2026, Spencer city, South Dakota has a total population of 126, the 279th largest city in South Dakota, with a median household income of $57,917, which is 20% lower than the state average. The poverty rate is 0.0%.
Key Takeaways
- An exceptionally low poverty rate of 0.0% — among the lowest in South Dakota.
- Housing is very affordable with a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.4x.
- Near full employment with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%.
Spencer city Quick Facts
How Spencer city Compares
Median Household Income
Median Home Value
Economy & Housing
Household Income Distribution
Employment
Housing Overview
People & Demographics
Age Distribution
Race & Ethnicity
Diversity Index
A less diverse community where one racial or ethnic group represents a large majority.
State average: 33 | National average: 60
Education
Educational Attainment (Adults 25+)
Spencer city Rankings in South Dakota
Explore South Dakota Rankings
Other Cities in McCook County
| City | Population | Median Income | Poverty | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salem city | 1,201 | $71,655 | 6.3% | $163,500 |
| Canistota city | 664 | $61,979 | 10.9% | $112,200 |
| Montrose city | 514 | $86,000 | 3.7% | $216,700 |
| Bridgewater city | 456 | $38,500 | 11.7% | $86,900 |
Cities Similar to Spencer city
These cities in the same state have comparable population and economic profiles.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | Bachelor's+ | Poverty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whitehorse CDP | 127 | $63,214 | N/A | 0.0% | 34.6% |
| Glenham town | 119 | $56,250 | $76,900 | 13.2% | 10.1% |
| Norris CDP | 116 | N/A | N/A | 28.3% | 81.4% |
| Kenel CDP | 124 | $49,688 | $83,800 | 20.3% | 14.5% |
| Canova town | 140 | $58,000 | $35,000 | 1.3% | 23.4% |
Population Overview
Spencer city is a small community located in South Dakota, within McCook County. The total population is 126. It ranks as the 279th most populous out of 439 cities and towns in South Dakota.
Age Demographics
The median age in Spencer city is 42.5 years. This is 13% higher than the state median of 37.7 years. 15.9% 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 Spencer city is $57,917. This is 20% lower than the state median of $72,421. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 26% lower. The poverty rate stands at 0.0%. This is 100% lower than the state poverty rate of 12.0%. This exceptionally low poverty rate indicates strong economic prosperity across the community. The unemployment rate is 0.0%. This is 100% lower than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $137,500. Housing costs are 42% lower than the state median of $236,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.4x, Spencer city is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 78.0% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 14% higher than the state average of 68.6%.
Race & Ethnicity
Spencer city has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 92.9% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 1.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.6%) is well below the state average of 4.6%.
Education
17.2% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 45% 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 93.1%.
Data Sources & Methodology
All demographic data for Spencer city, South Dakota is sourced from the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023). The ACS collects data from approximately 3.5 million households annually, providing reliable estimates for communities of all sizes. Comparisons are made against South Dakota state averages and national averages calculated from the same dataset. Rankings reflect the city's position among all 439 Census-designated places in South Dakota. For official data, visit data.census.gov.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of Spencer city, South Dakota?
Spencer city, South Dakota has a population of 126 according to the most recent U.S. Census ACS 5-Year Estimates.
What is the median household income in Spencer city, SD?
The median household income in Spencer city is $57,917, which is 26% lower the national median of $78,538.
What is the poverty rate in Spencer city, SD?
The poverty rate in Spencer city is 0.0%. This means approximately 0 residents live below the federal poverty line.
What is the racial makeup of Spencer city, South Dakota?
Spencer city's population is 92.9% White, 0.0% Black, 1.6% Hispanic/Latino, and 0.0% Asian.
What is the median home value in Spencer city, SD?
The median home value in Spencer city is $137,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x.
How educated is Spencer city, South Dakota?
17.2% of adults (25+) in Spencer city hold a bachelor's degree or higher, and 1.1% hold a graduate or professional degree.