Walworth County, South Dakota Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Walworth County is located in South Dakota with a total population of 5,298. It is the 33rd most populous county out of 66 in South Dakota. The county encompasses 6 Census-designated places.

Age Demographics

The median age in Walworth County is 41.6 years. This is 10% higher than the state median of 37.7 years. 10.1% 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 Walworth County is $62,722. This is 13% lower than the state median of $72,421. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 20% lower. The poverty rate stands at 15.3%. This is 27% higher than the state poverty rate of 12.0%. The unemployment rate is 3.7%. This is 22% higher than the state rate of 3.0%. The median home value is $130,000. Housing costs are 45% lower than the state median of $236,800. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.1x, Walworth County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 74.3% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 8% higher than the state average of 68.6%.

Race & Ethnicity

The largest racial or ethnic group in Walworth County is White (non-Hispanic), making up 78.9% of the population. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 1.2%. The Black or African American population (0.3%) is well below the state average of 2.2%. The Hispanic or Latino population (1.2%) is well below the state average of 4.6%. The Asian population (0.1%) is well below the state average of 1.4%.

Education

31.1% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is about average 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 92.0%.