countyscore
67.3
County Score
Disaster Risk 93.2Income & Jobs 83.4Safety 81.4

County Report Card

About Deuel County, South Dakota

Deuel County Ranks High Nationally

With an impressive composite score of 67.3, Deuel County far exceeds the national median of 50.0. This high ranking places it among the top tier of counties for overall quality of life.

A Leader in South Dakota Livability

Deuel County is a standout performer in the state, beating the South Dakota average of 55.9 by over 11 points. It combines high earnings with environmental resilience to outshine nearby regions.

High Incomes and Environmental Resilience

The county boasts a strong income score of 83.4, supported by a median household income of $79,556. It is also exceptionally well-prepared for natural disasters, earning a risk score of 93.2.

Navigating Significant Water Quality Issues

The most pressing challenge is the water score, which sits at a low 19.4. While other dimensions are strong, residents may need to invest more in localized water filtration or management.

Perfect for High-Earning Families

Deuel County is a top-tier destination for established professionals seeking safety and high wages. The combination of low environmental risk and high safety makes it one of the state's most desirable locations.

Score breakdown

Tax51.5Cost73.3Safety81.4Health74.5Schools50.3Income83.4Risk93.2Water19.4Weather47.6
🏛51.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠73.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼83.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡81.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤74.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓50.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡93.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧19.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤47.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨64.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱60.5
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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Nearby counties

Lincoln County
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69.3
Brookings County
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48.5
Hamlin County
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57.1
Codington County
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Grant County
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Lac qui Parle County
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Yellow Medicine County
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Lyon County
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64.5

Deep Dives

Deuel County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Deuel County

via TaxByCounty

Deuel's tax rate among America's lowest

At 0.820%, Deuel County has one of the lowest effective property tax rates in the nation, well below the U.S. median of 0.84% and in the bottom 30%. The median annual tax of $1,477 is roughly 45% lower than the national median of $2,690.

Well below South Dakota average

Deuel County's 0.820% effective rate ranks among the lowest in South Dakota, notably below the state average of 1.094%. Residents enjoy median taxes of just $1,477 versus $1,785 statewide, reflecting a lighter tax burden overall.

The tax bargain of the region

Deuel County (0.820%) has the lowest effective tax rate among its peer counties, even lower than Day County (1.030%) and Edmunds County (0.866%). At $1,477, the median tax bill is the most affordable in this regional cluster.

Median home? Pay about $1,477 yearly

A homeowner with Deuel County's median property value of $180,100 pays approximately $1,477 annually in property taxes at the 0.820% rate. Monthly costs average just $123, making it one of the most affordable counties in the state.

Low rates don't guarantee accurate assessments

Even in tax-friendly Deuel County, assessment errors happen—your home might still be overvalued on the county rolls. Request a formal reassessment review if you believe your assessed value doesn't match recent comparable sales.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Deuel County

via CostByCounty

Deuel ranks as South Dakota's affordability champion

Deuel County boasts a remarkably low 10.1% rent-to-income ratio, well below both the national median and South Dakota's 13.8% state average. With the highest median household income of the eight-county cohort at $79,556 paired with modest $668 rent, Deuel delivers exceptional housing value.

Deuel leads all South Dakota counties

At 10.1%, Deuel County claims the best rent-to-income ratio among South Dakota's counties in this analysis, significantly outpacing the state average of 13.8%. This elite affordability status reflects both strong local incomes and reasonable housing costs.

Deuel's income-to-rent advantage is unmatched

Deuel County's $79,556 median income combined with $668 rent creates the lowest burden among neighboring counties—Day comes close at 12%, but Deuel's higher income gives it superior affordability cushion. No other county in this group matches Deuel's combination of earning power and modest housing costs.

Deuel keeps housing costs proportionally minimal

Renters allocate just $668 monthly to rent while homeowners invest $788 in ownership, with median home values at $180,100—all consuming only 10.1% of household income. This leaves Deuel households with substantially more resources for savings, healthcare, and other essentials.

Deuel County offers the best overall value

If housing affordability is your top priority, Deuel County is where you'll find the region's healthiest balance of income and costs. Strong local earnings and modest housing expenses make Deuel the ideal destination for budget-conscious relocators.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Deuel County

via IncomeByCounty

Deuel County surpasses national income average

Deuel County's median household income of $79,556 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by $4,801, ranking it among the stronger-earning counties nationwide. This achievement is remarkable for a rural South Dakota county, signaling a robust local economy and higher-wage employment base.

Deuel ranks among South Dakota's top counties

At $79,556, Deuel County significantly outpaces South Dakota's state average of $66,926 by nearly $13,000, placing it in the upper tier of the state's 66 counties. The county's per capita income of $37,556 aligns with state average, suggesting household income strength rather than individual earning concentration.

Deuel County earns more than comparable peers

Deuel County's $79,556 median household income exceeds all neighboring and similar counties, including Douglas ($78,125) and Edmunds ($77,266). Only a handful of South Dakota counties match Deuel's earning power, making it a regional economic leader.

Excellent affordability unlocks wealth building

Deuel County's rent-to-income ratio of 10.1% ranks among the lowest regionally, meaning housing costs claim just one-tenth of median household income. The median home value of $180,100 remains well within reach for median earners, creating strong conditions for building home equity.

Maximize wealth potential in Deuel County

Deuel County households with above-average incomes and excellent affordability should aggressively pursue wealth-building strategies, including maxing retirement contributions and diversifying investments. Consider leveraging the county's strong economic fundamentals to invest in real estate, small business, or education to further compound household wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Deuel County

via CrimeByCounty

Deuel County's Impressive National Safety Rank

With a safety score of 99.3, Deuel County is vastly safer than the typical American community. Its total crime rate of 442.1 per 100K is roughly 80% lower than the national benchmark.

Leading the State in Security

The county's crime rate is roughly half the South Dakota average of 788.1 per 100K. This places Deuel in the top tier of safe counties across the entire state.

Rural Safety with Local Oversight

Deuel’s safety profile aligns closely with rural neighbors like Day County. Because data comes from a single agency, residents should view these low numbers as a positive but potentially incomplete snapshot.

Property Concerns Over Violent Incidents

Most local incidents are property-related, occurring at a rate of 372.3 per 100K. Violent crime remains very rare, with only 69.8 incidents per 100K residents reported in 2022.

Staying Vigilant in Deuel County

Maintaining this secure environment starts with personal awareness. Locking vehicles and installing doorbell cameras provides an extra layer of defense against property theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Deuel County

via HealthByCounty

Deuel County leads in life expectancy

Deuel County residents live to 79.2 years on average—nearly 6.2 years longer than the U.S. average of 73 years. Just 14.6% report poor or fair health, significantly beating the national rate and signaling exceptional community wellness.

Top tier health outcomes in South Dakota

At 79.2 years, Deuel County's life expectancy ranks among South Dakota's best, topping the state average of 75.4 years by 3.8 years. The county's robust longevity reflects strong community health fundamentals and access to care.

Deuel outshines many regional peers

Deuel's 79.2-year life expectancy exceeds Day County (78.3) and Davison County (78.5), making it a true regional leader in longevity. Yet the county's 23 primary care providers per 100,000 residents ranks among the state's lowest, creating potential care access challenges despite excellent health outcomes.

Excellent coverage with limited providers

Deuel County's 9.6% uninsured rate is the lowest among these eight counties and well below South Dakota's 11.1% average, reflecting strong health insurance penetration. However, with only 23 primary care providers per 100K, residents may face longer wait times or travel distances for routine medical visits.

Maintain your coverage advantage

Deuel's low uninsured rate is a community strength—keep it that way by reviewing your coverage annually. Visit healthcare.gov each fall to confirm your plan offers the care and providers your family needs, especially given the county's limited primary care capacity.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Deuel County

via SchoolsByCounty

Focused Education in Deuel County

Deuel County operates four public schools consisting of two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. This concentrated network serves a total of 748 students.

Top-Tier Graduation Performance

The county achieves an impressive 95.0% graduation rate, far exceeding the South Dakota average of 82.4%. These results are notable as per-pupil spending remains lean at $5,967, well below the national median of $13,000.

The Deuel School District Hub

Deuel School District 19-4 is the primary provider here, managing three schools and 544 students. Traditional public schools make up 100% of the county's educational landscape as there are no charter schools.

Rural Schools with Strong Enrollment

All four schools are situated in rural locales with an average enrollment of 187 students. Clear Lake Elementary is the largest campus with 259 students, while Clear Lake Middle School serves 125 students.

Invest in a Community with 95% Grad Rates

Families seeking high academic accountability will find Deuel County an attractive option. Consider the local housing market to benefit from one of the highest graduation rates in the state.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Deuel County

via RiskByCounty

Deuel ranks among lowest-risk counties nationally

Deuel County's composite risk score of 6.87 places it far below South Dakota's 26.84 state average and near the bottom of national disaster vulnerability rankings. This "Very Low" rating reflects genuinely minimal exposure to most major natural hazards.

Lowest-risk county in South Dakota

Deuel County ranks among the safest in South Dakota, with its 6.87 composite score placing it in the lowest tier of statewide natural disaster risk. Few South Dakota counties offer comparable protection from multiple hazard types.

Safest county in northeastern South Dakota

Deuel County's 6.87 risk score makes it significantly safer than neighboring Davison County (39.25) and Day County (27.64) in the region. Only nearby Edmunds County (6.97) approaches Deuel's exceptionally low vulnerability level.

Wildfire presents only notable hazard

Wildfire risk of 69.94 is Deuel County's primary natural disaster concern, though it remains moderate compared to western counties. All other hazards—tornado (32.41), flood (9.29), and earthquake (6.27)—fall well below state and national averages.

Basic coverage meets most needs

Deuel County's minimal risk profile means standard homeowners insurance typically provides adequate protection without specialized riders. Focus on maintaining a wildfire-resistant landscape and ensuring smoke detection systems function properly rather than purchasing premium disaster coverage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Deuel County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool Temps and Significant Snow

Deuel County records a cool 42.4°F annual average, placing it well below the national median. This climate is defined by long, snowy winters and exceptionally mild, pleasant summers.

One of South Dakota's Coldest Counties

Ranking as one of the coldest counties in the state, Deuel sits more than 3 degrees below the 45.6°F South Dakota average. Its eastern location also brings significantly higher moisture levels than its western neighbors.

A Regional Peak for Snowfall

The county receives 27.5 inches of precipitation annually, far exceeding the state's 22.7-inch average. This leads to a massive 60.7 inches of snowfall, making it one of the snowiest spots in the region.

Brief Summers and Heavy Snow

Summer remains mild with only 6 days exceeding 90°F and a July average of 70.1°F. Conversely, winter hits hard with a December-to-February average of just 15.0°F and heavy accumulation.

Prioritize Snow Management Tools

Homeowners must prioritize heavy-duty snow removal equipment to handle the 60.7-inch annual snowfall. The mild summers mean air conditioning is often a luxury rather than a constant necessity.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Deuel County

via SoilByCounty

Rich, Slightly Alkaline Soils

Deuel County soil maintains an average pH of 7.10, sitting just above the state average of 7.05. This slightly alkaline profile is typical for the region and remains higher than the national median of 6.5. Although taxonomic details are not currently recorded, the pH indicates a stable chemical environment for many prairie plants.

Balanced Texture for Farmability

The composition features 32.4% sand, 43.4% silt, and 24.2% clay. This blend offers a good middle ground for drainage and nutrient holding, preventing the soil from being too sandy or too heavy. It provides a workable surface that responds well to traditional cultivation.

Top-Tier Organic Richness

Organic matter in Deuel County hits a high of 4.04%, beating the state average by nearly 0.3%. Coupled with an available water capacity of 0.188 in/in, this soil is built to sustain growth through the summer months. The fertility levels here are among the best in the region.

Managing the Hydrologic Profile

While official drainage classes are not listed, the silt-heavy composition suggests moderate permeability. Water likely moves through the soil at a steady pace, benefiting from the 32.4% sand fraction. Site-specific testing is recommended for any major building or drainage projects.

Thriving in Northern Zone 4b

With a USDA Hardiness Zone of 4b, Deuel County is perfect for short-season crops and hardy perennials. The soil score of 64.6 is significantly higher than the state average, indicating strong natural potential. It is an ideal spot for starting a home vegetable patch or maintaining lush pastures.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Deuel County

via LawnByCounty

Top-Tier Growing Conditions in Deuel

Deuel County boasts a 60.5 lawn difficulty score, making it one of the easiest places in the state to maintain a lawn. This score sits well above the national median of 50.0, favoring Zone 4b gardeners.

Optimal Rainfall and Mild Heat

The county receives 27.5 inches of precipitation annually, which is the highest among its neighbors and nears the national ideal. With only 6 extreme heat days, lawns here suffer much less heat stress than the state average of 24 days.

Balanced Soil for Healthy Roots

A soil pH of 7.10 is nearly perfect for most standard grass types, requiring minimal adjustment. While specific texture data is unavailable, the 32.4% sand content suggests the soil likely provides adequate aeration for root expansion.

Minor Dry Spells to Manage

Despite having 16 weeks of drought in the past year, nearly 80% of the county currently shows some dryness. Use mulch-mowing to return clippings to the soil, which helps retain moisture during these temporary dry periods.

Planting Near the May Frost

Kentucky Bluegrass is a staple for this region, flourishing in the 2,274 growing degree days. Schedule your seeding for just after the May 7 frost date to capitalize on the moist, cool spring weather.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Deuel County's county score?
Deuel County, South Dakota has a composite county score of 67.3 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 Deuel County rank among counties in South Dakota?
Deuel County ranks #7 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 Deuel County, South Dakota?
The median annual property tax in Deuel County is $1,477, with an effective tax rate of 0.82%. This earns Deuel County a tax score of 51.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Deuel County?
The median household income in Deuel County, South Dakota is $79,556 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Deuel County earns an income score of 83.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Deuel County, South Dakota a good place to live?
Deuel County scores 67.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #7 in South Dakota. The best way to evaluate Deuel 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 Deuel County with other counties side by side.

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🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

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