countyscore
43.2
County Score
Soil Quality 62.3Safety 57.1Lawn Care 55.6

County Report Card

About Beadle County, South Dakota

Trailing the National Median

Beadle County holds a composite score of 43.2, placing it below the national median of 50.0. This ranking suggests the county faces more significant livability hurdles than the average American county.

Below the South Dakota Average

The county's overall score of 43.2 trails the South Dakota state average of 55.9 by a notable margin. It currently ranks in the lower half of the state's counties for overall quality of life metrics.

Security and Stable Environment

Public safety is a relative bright spot with a score of 57.1, providing a solid foundation for residents. The county also manages environmental hazards effectively, earning a risk score of 52.9.

Educational and Tax Hurdles

The local school system faces challenges with a score of 14.8, the lowest dimension in the profile. Economic pressures are also present, as the tax score of 34.2 reflects an effective tax rate of 1.053%.

Room for Growth and Opportunity

Beadle County is best suited for individuals looking for a safe, low-risk environment who may not be as reliant on the local K-12 school system. Improvements in educational infrastructure could significantly boost its future appeal.

Score breakdown

Tax34.2Cost46.7Safety57.1Health52.8Schools14.8Income48.3Risk52.9Water47.6Weather39.9
🏛34.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠46.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼48.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡57.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤52.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓14.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡52.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧47.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤39.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨62.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱55.6
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Deep Dives

Beadle County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Beadle County

via TaxByCounty

Beadle's rate well below U.S. median

Beadle County's effective tax rate of 1.053% ranks in the bottom quarter nationally, significantly lower than the 1.13% national median. At a median tax bill of $1,879, Beadle homeowners pay nearly $800 less per year than the national median of $2,690.

Among South Dakota's lowest-rate counties

Beadle County's 1.053% rate is the second-lowest in South Dakota, trailing only Buffalo County. Despite this favorable rate, the median tax of $1,879 runs slightly above the state average of $1,785, reflecting the county's higher median home value of $178,400.

Lowest rate in immediate region

Beadle County's 1.053% rate beats neighboring Aurora (1.080%), Bennett (1.027%), and Bon Homme (1.246%) counties by a comfortable margin. The county offers one of the most attractive property tax profiles in east-central South Dakota.

Median home: $178,400 = $1,879 tax

On a median home value of $178,400, Beadle County's 1.053% rate yields an annual property tax of approximately $1,879. Homeowners with mortgages may see slightly higher bills at $2,177, while those owning outright typically pay around $1,677.

Appeal overassessments in Beadle

Properties in Beadle County are reassessed periodically, and assessment errors do occur. If your home's assessed value seems high compared to recent sales of similar properties, filing an appeal with the county assessor can reduce your tax liability.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Beadle County

via CostByCounty

Beadle renters spend more than average

Beadle County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.9% exceeds both the national comfort zone (30%) and puts pressure on local households. At $834 monthly rent against a median income of $63,082—about $11,700 below the national average—Beadle residents stretch further for housing than most Americans.

Beadle ranks among less affordable counties

With a 15.9% rent-to-income ratio, Beadle County sits above South Dakota's 13.8% state average, reflecting tighter affordability for renters. The county's below-average household income ($63,082 vs. state peers) amplifies the strain.

Beadle's rents lead the region

At $834 monthly, Beadle commands the highest median rent among these eight counties—$95 above state average and substantially more than Aurora ($739) or Bennett ($616). This premium reflects Beadle's position as a regional economic hub, but it tests renters' budgets.

Housing eats into household budgets

Renters allocate $834 monthly (15.9% of income) while homeowners pay $917 for ownership costs against the $63,082 median income. Both housing modes consume a notably higher share of earnings than state averages, limiting discretionary spending.

Beadle works best for higher earners

If you're relocating to Beadle, consider how its above-average rents and below-average incomes align with your earning potential. The county offers urban amenities and services, but affordability pressures are real for families earning below regional medians.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Beadle County

via IncomeByCounty

Beadle earns 15% below US average

Beadle County's median household income of $63,082 trails the national median of $74,755 by $11,673, or roughly 15%. This gap reflects a common rural pattern: earnings here lag urban and suburban America despite lower overall cost structures.

Below-average income for South Dakota

Beadle's $63,082 falls about $3,844 short of the state median of $66,926, placing it in the lower half of South Dakota counties. Per capita income of $31,506 also underperforms the state average of $35,667 by nearly $4,200.

Outearned by Aurora and Brown

Beadle's $63,082 median trails nearby Aurora County by $11,048 and Brown County by $7,157, though it edges out Bennett and Buffalo counties. Among this regional group, Beadle occupies a modest middle position with fewer high-earning households than neighboring counties.

Rent burden rises for many

Beadle's rent-to-income ratio of 15.9% means housing takes up roughly 16% of median income—higher than Aurora's 12%—yet still within the comfort zone. The median home value of $178,400, however, represents nearly 2.8 years of median household income, requiring significant savings for purchase.

Strategic savings can close the gap

Beadle households earning $63,082 should prioritize building a 6-month emergency fund before investing further. Even modest monthly contributions to a high-yield savings account or employer 401(k) can compound over time and reduce financial vulnerability.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Beadle County

via CrimeByCounty

Safety Scores Remain High in Beadle

Beadle County reports a total crime rate of 984.9 per 100K, which is much lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This earns the county a strong safety score of 98.4.

Close to State Safety Averages

The county's safety score of 98.4 is just slightly below the South Dakota state average of 98.8. Its total crime rate of 984.9 is higher than the state average of 788.1, indicating more local activity.

Comparative Safety in the Region

Beadle County sees more reported crime than nearby Aurora County, which sits at 308.9. However, it remains significantly safer than many urban centers across the United States.

Understanding Local Crime Trends

Property crime is the most common issue at 796.3 per 100K, while violent crime remains low at 188.6. Both categories stay well below national benchmarks of 2,015.7 and 369.8, respectively.

Proactive Steps for Home Security

Since property crime is the primary concern, residents should focus on securing valuables and installing cameras. These small steps help maintain the high safety standards Beadle is known for.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Beadle County

via HealthByCounty

Beadle outperforms national life expectancy

Beadle County's life expectancy of 78.4 years exceeds the U.S. average of 74.5 years by nearly 4 years. However, 18.9% of residents report poor or fair health, which is above the national average of 15%, indicating disparities in day-to-day wellness despite longer overall lifespans.

Top performer on South Dakota's health scale

At 78.4 years, Beadle County's life expectancy ranks among South Dakota's healthiest, beating the state average of 75.4 years by 3 years. The county's 18.9% poor/fair health rate is higher than some peers but reflects the county's larger population and more complete health reporting.

Beadle leads rural health outcomes regionally

Beadle's 78.4-year life expectancy matches Brookings County and exceeds most rural neighbors like Bennett (67.9 years) by 10 years. With 271 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, Beadle ranks among the state's strongest on behavioral health access, supported by 47 primary care providers per 100K.

Higher uninsured rate signals access gaps

Beadle's 12.9% uninsured rate exceeds the state average by 1.8 percentage points, meaning roughly 1 in 8 residents lack coverage. The county offers solid primary care (47 per 100K) and strong mental health support (271 per 100K), yet insurance gaps still limit care-seeking for many.

Bridge Beadle's insurance gap affordably

Nearly 13% of Beadle County residents go uninsured—higher than the state average. Exploring South Dakota Medicaid or marketplace plans at healthcare.gov could provide the coverage protection your household needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Beadle County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust Educational Hub in Huron

Beadle County supports a significant student population of 3,411 across 16 public schools. The infrastructure includes eight elementary schools, three middle schools, and four high schools, primarily organized within two districts. This diverse system includes two alternative schools to support varied learning needs.

Evaluating Results and School Spending

Beadle County allocates $6,315 per pupil, a figure that is more than $1,000 below the South Dakota state average and significantly lower than the $13,000 national average. The graduation rate of 78.1% sits below the state average of 82.4%. With a school score of 45.8, the county is working to bridge performance gaps relative to state benchmarks.

Huron School District Dominates Enrollment

The Huron School District 02-2 is the primary educational provider, serving 2,917 students across 10 different schools. The Wolsey Wessington School District 02-6 also serves the area with 359 students. No charter schools exist in the county, meaning education is delivered exclusively through traditional public districts.

Mixing Town Hubs and Rural Classrooms

Education here is split between six town-based schools in Huron and ten rural campuses, offering a mix of environments. Huron High School is the largest with 836 students, providing a traditional secondary experience, while the average school size across the county is 227 students. Students transition from focused primary centers like the Buchanan K-1 Center to more comprehensive middle and high schools.

Relocating to Beadle County Schools

Prospective homeowners in Beadle County can choose between the energetic atmosphere of Huron’s town schools or the quiet of rural districts. School quality is a vital factor in long-term property value and community stability in this region. Start your home search today to find a place near the district that best fits your family’s goals.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Beadle County

via RiskByCounty

Beadle faces above-average disaster risk

Beadle County's composite risk score of 47.14 places it in the "Relatively Low" category but 76% higher than the national average. Your county confronts multiple significant hazards, particularly tornadoes and floods that demand serious preparedness attention.

Mid-range risk within South Dakota

Beadle County ranks in the upper-middle tier of South Dakota's 66 counties with a score of 47.14, notably above the state average of 26.84. This positions Beadle among South Dakota's more hazard-exposed communities.

Comparable risk to regional peers

Beadle's composite score of 47.14 mirrors the risk profile of nearby Brookings County (50.06), making both communities some of South Dakota's more hazard-prone areas. Both counties significantly exceed the state average and face similar tornado and flood threats.

Tornadoes and floods threaten Beadle

Tornado risk (64.63) and flood risk (45.61) represent Beadle County's dominant natural disasters, reflecting the county's position in Tornado Alley. Wildfire exposure (74.75) adds a third substantial hazard that residents cannot ignore.

Invest in comprehensive disaster coverage

Beadle County residents should secure homeowners insurance with explicit tornado and windstorm coverage, plus a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program. An interior safe room or storm shelter offers critical additional protection during severe weather events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Beadle County

via WeatherByCounty

Typical Northern Plains Annual Temperatures

Beadle County averages 45.9°F annually, which is significantly cooler than the national median of 53°F. The local climate is defined by high variability and 23.3 inches of annual precipitation.

Mirroring the South Dakota State Average

The county's 45.9°F average temperature closely matches the South Dakota state average of 45.6°F. It occupies a middle-ground temperature position among the state's diverse geographic regions.

High Snowfall Relative to Regional Peers

Beadle receives 44.4 inches of snow, notably more than neighboring Aurora County's 37.7 inches. Its annual precipitation of 23.3 inches remains slightly above the state average of 22.7 inches.

Cold Winters and Brisk Summer Days

Winters are notably cold with January temperatures averaging just 16.0°F. Summer brings a sharp contrast, featuring 22 days of heat exceeding 90°F and a July average of 73.7°F.

Prepare for Significant Snow Drifts

Residents should prioritize high-quality insulation and snow tires to handle the 44.4 inches of annual snowfall. Reliable HVAC systems are necessary to bridge the nearly 60-degree gap between January and July averages.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Beadle County

via SoilByCounty

Versatile Soils for Central Dakota

Beadle County presents a pH of 6.89, placing it slightly above the 6.5 national median but below the 7.05 state average. The overall soil score of 62.3 sits just above the South Dakota average, indicating reliable productivity. This nearly neutral pH level is ideal for the uptake of essential plant nutrients.

Sand-Forward Texture for Easy Working

The soil contains 42.0% sand, which is higher than many neighboring counties, paired with 37.9% silt and 20.0% clay. This sand-dominant mix improves drainage and makes the ground easier to till or dig. It is less prone to the heavy crusting often found in high-clay regions.

Steady Growth with Solid Matter

Organic matter levels reach 3.21%, easily surpassing the national average of 2.0% but falling short of the state’s 3.75% benchmark. The available water capacity is 0.181 in/in, which aligns perfectly with the state average of 0.182. These factors combine to create a dependable environment for regional field crops.

Aeration and Drainage Advantages

Specific drainage classes are not provided, but the 42.0% sand content typically indicates good internal drainage and root aeration. This prevents waterlogging during the spring thaw but may require more frequent irrigation in mid-summer. Homeowners will find these soils generally favorable for building foundations and landscaping.

Cool-Season Success in Zone 4b

The Zone 4b climate means gardeners should focus on cold-hardy staples like kale, carrots, and potatoes. Your sandy soil warms up quickly in the spring, giving you an edge on early-season planting. This is a great environment for establishing fruit trees like apples and plums.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Beadle County

via LawnByCounty

Beadle County Outperforms State Averages

With a score of 55.6, Beadle County offers an easier lawn care experience than the South Dakota average of 51.1. This Zone 4b region provides a slightly better environment for turf management than the national median.

Temperate Summers Aid Grass Health

Residents see 22 extreme heat days per year, fewer than the state average of 24, which reduces summer stress on lawns. The 23.3 inches of annual precipitation requires supplemental watering to bridge the gap toward the 30-inch ideal threshold.

Sandy Soil Requires Careful Watering

The soil features a high sand content of 42.0% and a 20.0% clay mix, promoting faster drainage. A pH of 6.89 is nearly ideal for grass, though the sandy texture may require more frequent, lighter watering to prevent nutrient leaching.

Twenty-Three Weeks of Drought Stress

Beadle County endured 23 weeks of drought last year, and 81.8% of the area currently remains abnormally dry. Utilizing mulch-mowing can help retain soil moisture during these periods to protect the turf's crown.

Optimize Growth with May Planting

Hardy cool-season grasses like Perennial Ryegrass are excellent choices for Zone 4b winters. Aim to seed your lawn after the May 6th spring frost to take full advantage of the 2,793 growing degree days.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Beadle County's county score?
Beadle County, South Dakota has a composite county score of 43.2 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Beadle County rank among counties in South Dakota?
Beadle County ranks #57 among all counties in South Dakota on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Beadle County, South Dakota?
The median annual property tax in Beadle County is $1,879, with an effective tax rate of 1.05%. This earns Beadle County a tax score of 34.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Beadle County?
The median household income in Beadle County, South Dakota is $63,082 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Beadle County earns an income score of 48.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Beadle County, South Dakota a good place to live?
Beadle County scores 43.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #57 in South Dakota. The best way to evaluate Beadle County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Beadle County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.