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Jackson County, South Dakota — County Report Card

SD

#10 in South Dakota

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
66.4
County Score
Safety 97.5Cost of Living 90.8Disaster Risk 89.9

County Report Card

About Jackson County, South Dakota

Strong Livability Despite Economic Hurdles

Jackson County scores a 66.7 overall, placing it well ahead of the national median of 50.0. This high composite score is driven by extreme affordability and safety rather than wealth. It offers a lifestyle that is statistically more accessible than the majority of U.S. counties.

A Leader in State Affordability

Jackson County outperforms the South Dakota average of 55.9 by more than 10 points. While it faces income challenges, its scores in cost of living and safety are among the highest in the state. This makes it a unique outlier in the state’s demographic landscape.

Unmatched Safety and Housing Affordability

The county achieves a stellar safety score of 97.5 and a cost score of 92.0. With a median gross rent of just $460 and median home values of $111,500, housing is exceptionally attainable. These strengths provide a massive advantage for those living on fixed incomes or working remotely.

Bridging Gaps in Income and Health

The income score is 0.0, reflecting a low median household income of $26,686, and the health score sits at 8.9. Tax data is currently unavailable for this county, making it difficult to assess the total fiscal burden. These metrics highlight a need for improved local services and economic diversification.

Best for Budget-Conscious Remote Workers

Jackson County is a perfect match for individuals who value extreme affordability and a low-crime environment. Those with external income sources will find the $460 median rent and 89.9 risk score highly attractive. It serves as a safe, low-cost harbor for those who don't rely on the local job market.

2040608010066.390.897.58.968.80.989.98631.9Tax66.3Cost90.8Safety97.5Health8.9Schools68.8Income0.9Risk89.9Water86Weather31.966.4/100
This county
National avg
6 above average3 below average

Jackson County DNA

D+overall

How Jackson County compares to the national average across nine baseline dimensions

Jackson County scores above average across most dimensions. It's a well-balanced county with particular strength in Disaster Risk (89.9/100).

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
66.3+14.299999999999997
Cost
90.8+42.8
Safety
97.5+42.5
Health
8.9-41.1
Schools
68.8+14.799999999999997
Income
0.9-50.1
Risk
89.9+42.900000000000006
Water
86+28
Weather
31.9-24.1
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Think property taxes are too high in Jackson County?

Many homeowners in Jackson County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$117,300

National median: $185,300

Median Rent

$442/mo

National median: $877/mo

Income Needed (home)

$117,300/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$17,680/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.3x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $35,417/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

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Nearby counties

Bennett County
South Dakota
44.2
Oglala Lakota County
South Dakota
65.9
Pennington County
South Dakota
28
Jones County
South Dakota
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Mellette County
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Haakon County
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Todd County
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Meade County
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Deep Dives

Jackson County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Jackson County

via TaxByCounty

Jackson County's tax data limited but homes are affordable

Complete tax rate data for Jackson County is unavailable, but homeowners without mortgages report paying roughly $750 annually on median homes valued at $111,500. This suggests an effective rate significantly below the national median of 1.28%.

Limited data in statewide comparison

While Jackson County's effective rate isn't published, its homes are priced 12% below South Dakota's median home value. The $750 annual payment on a typical home indicates a tax burden well below the state median of $1,785.

Affordable housing in region

Jackson County's median home value of $111,500 is lower than Jones County ($117,100) and Jerauld County ($127,000), positioning it as the most affordable in the immediate region. The limited tax data suggests competitive rates as well.

Roughly $750 annually without mortgage

Based on available data, homeowners without mortgages in Jackson County pay approximately $750 per year on a median-valued home. This represents one of the lowest tax burdens in the state.

Verify assessment accuracy

Even in lower-tax counties, homeowners should confirm their assessments reflect true market value. If your property is assessed above what comparable homes are selling for, you have the right to appeal.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jackson County

via IncomeByCounty

Jackson faces a significant income gap

Jackson County's median household income of $26,686 falls 64% below the national median of $74,755, representing one of the most economically challenged counties in the country. This stark disparity reflects limited employment opportunities and higher rates of poverty in the region.

Lowest earner in South Dakota

Jackson County's $26,686 median income is less than 40% of South Dakota's state average of $66,926, placing it at the bottom of all state counties. Per capita income of $17,120 is less than half the state average of $35,667.

Dramatically behind peers

Jackson County lags every neighboring county by a wide margin—Jones County ($64,688) earns 142% more, while even the next-lowest county, Lawrence ($66,766), earns 2.5 times as much. This isolation underscores unique economic challenges in the area.

Housing affordability is critical here

Jackson County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.7% exceeds safe affordability thresholds significantly, leaving families with less than 80% of income for all other necessities. At a median home value of $111,500, homeownership demands careful financial planning and stable employment.

Focus on income growth and stability

Jackson County families should prioritize job training and skill development to increase earning potential, as building wealth from a lower income base requires disciplined strategies. Connect with nonprofits and local workforce development programs offering financial literacy and matched savings programs.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jackson County

via CrimeByCounty

Maximum Safety in Jackson County

Jackson County achieved a 100.0 safety score by reporting zero crimes per 100K residents. This stands in stark contrast to the national total crime rate of 2,385.5.

A Top Performer in South Dakota

The county reports no crime activity, placing it well above the state average safety score of 98.8. Two reporting agencies provide the data confirming this quiet 2022 period.

Standing Out for Safety

While neighboring counties may experience typical rural crime, Jackson's reported rate of 0.0 remains exceptional. This level of safety is rare even among its peers in South Dakota.

Quiet on All Fronts

Both violent and property crime rates were 0.0 per 100K in the most recent reporting cycle. This means no incidents were officially recorded by the local sheriff or police departments.

Keep Your Community Secure

Jackson County is currently an exceptionally safe place to live and work. Simple habits like locking doors and garages help ensure these statistics stay at zero.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jackson County

via WeatherByCounty

Hot Summers in the Badlands Region

Jackson County maintains an annual average temperature of 48.5°F, which is lower than the national median but high for the Northern Plains. The area is characterized by a semi-arid climate with intense summer peaks. It experiences more extreme heat than many other parts of the American Midwest.

One of South Dakota's Warmest Spots

With an annual average of 48.5°F, Jackson County is nearly three degrees warmer than the South Dakota state average. However, it is also drier than average, receiving only 19.3 inches of precipitation annually. This combination creates a rugged, high-heat environment during the summer months.

Higher Heat Than Neighboring Western Counties

Jackson County stands out with 46 extreme heat days per year, far exceeding the state average. Its winter temperatures are also milder than northern neighbors, with a December-February average of 25.6°F. Despite the heat, it still receives 38.1 inches of snow, similar to the regional average.

A Climate of Intense Sun and Snow

Summer is the dominant season, featuring 46 days above 90°F and a July average of 75.0°F. Winters are surprisingly temperate for the region, with a January average of 24.0°F. Still, the county manages to accumulate 38.1 inches of snow throughout the colder months.

Maximum Cooling and Sun Protection

Residents must prioritize robust cooling systems to handle 46 days of extreme heat. Outdoor workers should plan for intense sun exposure during the 75.0°F July peak. While winters are milder at 24.0°F, snow removal tools are still required for the 38.1 inches of annual snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jackson County

via SoilByCounty

Exploring Local Soil Characteristics

Soil specifics for Jackson County are currently limited, though regional trends suggest a shift toward the state’s typical alkaline profile. Most soils in this part of South Dakota hover near the state pH average of 7.05, slightly above the national median.

Foundation for Water Movement

Numerical data for sand, silt, and clay percentages is unavailable for this specific area. These ratios are the primary drivers of how water and air move through the root zone for local flora.

Targeting State Fertility Benchmarks

Without site-specific organic matter data, we look to the state's 3.75% average as a target for soil health. The county’s agricultural success depends on maintaining these levels against the national average of 2.0%.

Evaluating Land Suitability

Official hydrologic and drainage classifications are missing from current soil records for Jackson County. Local land managers typically determine suitability for building and farming through careful on-site observation and historical knowledge.

Heat Tolerant Garden Crops

Gardeners in Zone 5a enjoy a favorable climate for a variety of South Dakota staples. Focus on heat-tolerant crops like peppers and tomatoes that can make the most of the long summer sun.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jackson County

via LawnByCounty

Jackson County’s High-Maintenance Landscape

With a score of 39.0, Jackson County is one of the more difficult places in South Dakota to keep a green lawn. The combination of Zone 5a temperatures and limited rainfall puts significant stress on traditional turfgrass species.

Extreme Heat and Low Rainfall

Lawns face 46 extreme heat days per year, nearly double the state average of 24. This heat, combined with just 19.3 inches of annual rain, means irrigation is a necessity rather than an option for maintaining a healthy lawn.

Preparing for Unknown Soil Variables

While specific texture data is not available, the local climate suggests a need for heavy mulching to retain soil moisture. Testing your specific site for pH and drainage is critical before investing in new sod or seed.

Surviving 30 Weeks of Drought

Drought persists in Jackson County, with 98.2% of the area currently abnormally dry and 30 weeks of drought recorded recently. Consider Buffalo grass or other native species that can survive long periods without supplemental water in this arid climate.

Timing Your Jackson County Planting

Focus on heat-tolerant varieties that can handle the intense summer sun. Aim to seed in early May after the last frost or in late September before the October 1st frost date to give roots time to establish.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jackson County's county score?
Jackson County, South Dakota has a composite county score of 66.4 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 Jackson County rank among counties in South Dakota?
Jackson County ranks #10 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 Jackson County, South Dakota?
The median annual property tax in Jackson County is $760, with an effective tax rate of 0.65%. This earns Jackson County a tax score of 66.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jackson County?
The median household income in Jackson County, South Dakota is $35,417 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jackson County earns an income score of 0.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jackson County, South Dakota a good place to live?
Jackson County scores 66.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #10 in South Dakota. The best way to evaluate Jackson 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 Jackson County with other counties side by side.
By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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