countyscore

Lincoln County, South Dakota — County Report Card

SD

#65 in South Dakota

Explore on ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
34.4
County Score
Income & Jobs 94.5Health 92.9Soil Quality 68.8

County Report Card

About Lincoln County, South Dakota

Lincoln County Trails the National Median

Lincoln County earns a composite score of 34.4, placing it significantly below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a profile that struggles to maintain broad livability despite localized economic success.

Trailing South Dakota Average Scores

The county's overall score sits well below the South Dakota state average of 55.9. While neighbors may offer better balanced profiles, Lincoln operates with high extremes in specific categories.

High Incomes and Excellent Health Outcomes

Lincoln County excels in economic and physical wellness with an income score of 94.5 and a health score of 92.9. Median household income reaches a robust $96,552, far outpacing regional norms.

Facing High Costs and Safety Concerns

Affordability remains a major hurdle with a cost score of 10.8 and median home values at $323,500. Additionally, the safety score of 0.4 indicates significant room for improvement in community security.

A Destination for High Earners

This county is best suited for high-income professionals who prioritize health and wellness over housing affordability. It offers a prosperous lifestyle for those who can manage the higher cost of living and specific safety profile.

Score breakdown

Tax26.5Cost10.8Safety0.4Health92.9Schools34.3Income94.5Risk37Water53.2Weather44
🏛26.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠10.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼94.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡0.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤92.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓34.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡37
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧53.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤44
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨68.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱52.1
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 →
Sponsored

Compare mortgage rates in Lincoln County

Whether buying or refinancing in Lincoln County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

See Today's Rates

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Lincoln County with Champaign County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Champaign County
Illinois
Median income: $63,091
34.4
Lake County
Indiana
Median income: $68,985
34.4
Oklahoma County
Oklahoma
Median income: $65,374
34.4
Franklin County
Washington
Median income: $82,755
34.4
Fairbanks North Star Borough
Alaska
Median income: $84,722
34.5
Gila County
Arizona
Median income: $59,089
34.3
Leon County
Florida
Median income: $65,074
34.5
Crisp County
Georgia
Median income: $42,745
34.3

Nearby counties

Lyon County
Iowa
65.1
Sioux County
Iowa
59.1
Minnehaha County
South Dakota
49.5
Turner County
South Dakota
59.3
Rock County
Minnesota
70.7
Clay County
South Dakota
37.1
Union County
South Dakota
51.5
Plymouth County
Iowa
47.3

Deep Dives

Lincoln County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Lincoln County

via TaxByCounty

Lincoln County taxes above national norm

Lincoln County's effective tax rate of 1.181% exceeds the national median of 0.84%, placing it in the top 35% of U.S. counties for property tax burden. The median property tax here is $3,822—42% higher than the national median of $2,690—despite a home value close to the national average.

Highest tax rate in South Dakota

Lincoln County ranks first among South Dakota's 66 counties for effective tax rate at 1.181%, well above the state average of 1.094%. Its median property tax of $3,822 is more than double the state average of $1,785.

Significantly higher than regional peers

Lincoln County's 1.181% rate towers over neighboring Marshall County (0.908%) and McCook County (0.982%). Even compared to Meade County, the region's second-highest at 1.034%, Lincoln County residents pay substantially more in annual taxes.

What $323,500 home costs annually

The median Lincoln County home valued at $323,500 generates approximately $3,822 in annual property taxes. With mortgage, that figure rises to $3,851, making property tax a significant component of homeownership costs.

Your assessment might be too high

Many homeowners in high-tax counties like Lincoln are overassessed relative to market value. Filing a property tax appeal can reduce your assessment and lower annual taxes—a worthwhile step given the county's elevated rate.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Lincoln County

via CostByCounty

Lincoln County rents strain higher earners

At 15.4%, Lincoln County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national benchmark of affordability by about 2 percentage points—meaning renters here dedicate more of their paychecks to housing than typical Americans. However, median household income of $96,552 significantly outpaces the national median of $74,755, giving residents more purchasing power despite the higher cost burden.

Above average rent burden for South Dakota

Lincoln County's 15.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks above South Dakota's state average of 13.8%, placing it among the less affordable counties in the state. With median rent at $1,237 monthly—63% higher than the state average of $756—Lincoln is the most expensive rental market in this eight-county comparison.

Priciest rents in a rural region

Lincoln County's $1,237 median rent nearly doubles that of neighboring Marshall County ($743) and McCook County ($750), reflecting its stronger economy and likely proximity to employment centers. Among all eight counties analyzed, only Meade County ($1,150) approaches Lincoln's rental costs, making both outliers in South Dakota's rural housing market.

Balancing rent and homeownership costs

Renters in Lincoln County spend $1,237 monthly, while homeowners face $1,555 in monthly costs against a median income of $96,552. This means housing consumes roughly 15-19% of gross household income—manageable for this county's above-average earners, though still elevated compared to state peers.

High income, high cost tradeoff

Lincoln County attracts professionals with its strong incomes and higher home values ($323,500 median), but prospective renters should weigh the premium rent burden against nearby options like McCook County. If you're relocating for work, Lincoln's affordability gap shrinks considerably once household income exceeds $96,000.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Lincoln County

via IncomeByCounty

Lincoln County's earnings tower above national average

At $96,552, Lincoln County's median household income exceeds the national median of $74,755 by 29%, placing it well above typical American households. This strong performance reflects a county where earning power significantly outpaces the national baseline.

Top earner among South Dakota counties

Lincoln County leads all South Dakota counties with a median household income 44% higher than the state average of $66,926. Its per capita income of $50,843 also towers over the state's $35,667 average, signaling concentrated economic strength.

Lincoln County dominates regional income rankings

Lincoln County's $96,552 median household income substantially exceeds nearby counties like McCook ($80,847), Meade ($74,161), and Marshall ($72,500). The county's earning capacity is nearly double that of Mellette County ($51,364), its most economically challenged neighbor.

Strong income supports local housing costs

With a rent-to-income ratio of just 15.4%, Lincoln County residents spend a healthy portion of earnings on housing while maintaining financial flexibility. The median home value of $323,500 remains accessible for households earning nearly $100,000 annually.

Build wealth with Lincoln County's earnings potential

Lincoln County's above-average incomes create an exceptional foundation for retirement savings, investment portfolios, and long-term wealth building. Consider directing 10–15% of your household income toward diversified investments to compound these earnings over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Lincoln County

via CrimeByCounty

Crime Rates Surpass National Benchmarks

Lincoln County reports a total crime rate of 11,779.5 per 100K, which is nearly five times the national average of 2,385.5. This high volume of activity results in a safety score of 81.4.

A Rare High-Activity Pocket in South Dakota

While the state average safety score is a high 98.8, Lincoln County falls behind with a score of 81.4. Its total crime rate of 11,779.5 per 100K is much higher than the state average of 788.1.

Activity Far Exceeds Rural Neighbors

Lincoln's crime rate is drastically higher than neighboring McCook County, which reports only 472.5 crimes per 100K. The county's seven reporting agencies handle a workload much larger than those in adjacent rural areas.

Property Crimes Drive Local Statistics

Property crime dominates the landscape at 10,039.4 per 100K, while violent crime stands at 1,740.1. These numbers reflect a busy environment for law enforcement compared to national levels.

Prioritize Modern Home Surveillance

With high property crime rates, residents should install smart security cameras and high-quality locks. Consistent lighting around the home serves as a vital deterrent in active neighborhoods.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Lincoln County

via HealthByCounty

Lincoln County lives longer than most

At 83.8 years, Lincoln County's life expectancy outpaces the U.S. average by more than 5 years, reflecting strong overall health outcomes. Just 9.8% of residents report poor or fair health, well below the national benchmark of roughly 18%.

A health leader in South Dakota

Lincoln County ranks among the healthiest in South Dakota, with a life expectancy 8.4 years higher than the state average of 75.4 years. This county significantly outperforms statewide health metrics across multiple indicators.

Outpacing regional peers by years

Lincoln County's 83.8-year life expectancy dwarfs neighboring Lyman County (68.3 years) and Marshall County (79.3 years). The county's 9.8% poor/fair health rate is notably lower than regional averages, suggesting concentrated healthcare access and economic stability.

Strong access, low uninsured rate

Only 6.6% of Lincoln County residents lack health insurance—nearly 5 percentage points below the state average—and the county boasts 133 primary care providers per 100,000 people. Mental health providers are also readily available at 313 per 100,000, ensuring comprehensive care.

Already insured? Stay covered.

While Lincoln County leads the state in coverage, keeping insurance current protects your family's health and finances. Visit healthcare.gov or your local health department to review your plan and explore assistance programs if needed.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Lincoln County

via SchoolsByCounty

Large-Scale Suburban and Rural Education

Lincoln County hosts a massive educational infrastructure of 25 public schools, including 12 elementary and 6 middle schools. Serving over 10,000 students across four districts, this is one of the most significant and rapidly growing school systems in the state. The county also provides two alternative schools to ensure diverse learning paths for its large student body.

Exceeding Benchmarks in Graduation and Success

Lincoln County boasts an impressive 90.6% graduation rate, which is far above the state average of 82.4% and the national average of 87.0%. Despite a lower per-pupil expenditure of $5,954, the county achieves a composite school score of 51.6. This reflects a system that delivers high-tier academic results through efficient resource management.

Growth in Harrisburg and Tea Area Districts

The Harrisburg School District 41-2 is the county powerhouse, enrolling 5,912 students across 10 schools. The Tea Area School District also shows significant scale, serving 2,362 students through six campuses. There are currently no charter schools in the county, with all 10,172 students attending schools within the four traditional districts.

A Blend of City and Rural Schools

The county features a diverse mix of 16 rural, 5 town, and 4 city school locales, reflecting its varied geography. Harrisburg High School is the largest in the county with 1,613 students, and the average school size is 407. This environment offers students a modern, large-school experience while still maintaining rural community connections.

Investing in a Lincoln County Future

For families looking for top-tier graduation rates and modern school facilities, Lincoln County is a standout South Dakota destination. The rapid growth in the Harrisburg and Tea Area districts makes this an exciting place to buy a home with long-term educational value. Explore local listings to find your place in this high-performing and dynamic school community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Lincoln County

via RiskByCounty

Lincoln County's risk ranks above average nationally

With a composite risk score of 62.98, Lincoln County faces above-average natural disaster exposure compared to the national baseline. This "Relatively Low" rating masks significant variation: while the county sits well below the state average of 26.84, individual hazards like tornadoes (93.32) pose outsized threats. Understanding your specific exposures—not just the overall score—helps you prepare appropriately.

Lincoln ranks among South Dakota's highest-risk counties

Lincoln County's composite risk score of 62.98 significantly exceeds South Dakota's state average of 26.84, making it one of the state's more hazard-exposed areas. The county's tornado risk score of 93.32 is particularly acute, reflecting historical patterns in the region. This elevated profile means residents should prioritize hazard awareness and preparedness more than many neighbors statewide.

Lincoln faces higher risks than surrounding counties

Among its neighbors, Lincoln County's composite risk of 62.98 substantially exceeds McCook County (43.45) and Meade County (49.46). Lincoln's tornado risk score of 93.32 dwarfs that of McCook (67.46), signaling a regional hot spot for severe weather. If you're relocating within the region, risk profiles vary considerably over short distances.

Tornadoes and wildfires dominate local hazards

Lincoln County's tornado risk (93.32) represents the county's most acute natural disaster threat, far exceeding state and national norms and warranting safe-room planning and early-warning awareness. Wildfire risk (65.11) ranks as the second major concern, while flood risk (56.62) also exceeds state averages. These three hazards should anchor your household preparedness strategy.

Secure comprehensive coverage for tornado exposure

Lincoln County's exceptional tornado risk demands that homeowners verify their policies explicitly cover wind and hail damage—standard homeowners policies often exclude or limit these coverages. Given the county's elevated wildfire (65.11) and flood (56.62) risks, bundling homeowners, auto, and separate flood insurance provides fuller protection. Review and update your coverage annually, especially after severe weather seasons.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Lincoln County

via WeatherByCounty

A Classic Northern Plains Climate Profile

Lincoln County maintains an annual average temperature of 45.7°F, which sits significantly below the national county median. This humid continental climate experiences sharp seasonal shifts and colder baselines than much of the United States. Residents navigate a landscape defined by significant temperature swings between summer and winter.

Matching the South Dakota Temperature Average

The county's 45.7°F average temperature almost perfectly matches the South Dakota state average of 45.6°F. While its thermal profile is typical for the region, its 27.8 inches of annual precipitation is notably higher than the state average of 22.7 inches. This makes it one of the wetter pockets in an otherwise semi-arid state.

A Damp Outlier Among Its Neighbors

Lincoln County receives more moisture than many of its western counterparts, recording five inches more rain annually than the state average. While neighbors like McCook County see similar temperatures, Lincoln's 36.1 inches of snow keeps its winters consistently white. The region balances this moisture with a moderate 15 days of extreme heat per year.

Dramatic Shifts From Snow to Sun

Winters are harsh with a January average of 15.5°F and over 36 inches of total snowfall. Summers offer a reprieve with a July average of 72.5°F, though the mercury still hits 90°F or higher roughly 15 times annually. The transition between a 18.8°F winter and a 70.4°F summer average defines the local lifestyle.

Preparing for Moisture and Cold

Residents should invest in heavy-duty snow removal equipment to handle the 36.1 inches of annual snowfall. High-efficiency home heating is essential given the 15.5°F January lows, while sump pumps help manage the above-average 27.8 inches of precipitation. Outdoor planning remains flexible as the county averages only 15 extreme heat days annually.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Lincoln County

via SoilByCounty

Balanced and Productive Lincoln Soil

Lincoln County features a nearly neutral pH of 6.89, sitting slightly above the national median of 6.5. This balanced chemical profile supports a strong soil score of 68.8, outperforming the state average of 61.2.

A Smooth, Silt-Heavy Texture

The soil is dominated by 50.8% silt and 28.2% clay, creating a smooth texture that manages moisture effectively. This mixture offers excellent workability for farmers while providing enough clay structure to retain essential nutrients.

High Water Capacity and Rich Matter

Organic matter levels reach 3.66%, nearly double the national average of 2.0%. Combined with an available water capacity of 0.193 in/in, this soil acts as a reliable reservoir for crops during the summer months.

Steady Hydration Without Excessive Runoff

While specific drainage data is limited, the high silt profile suggests water moves through the soil at a moderate, steady pace. This naturally prevents rapid runoff and makes the land stable for both agriculture and local building projects.

Thriving in Zone 5a

Located in hardiness zone 5a, Lincoln County is ideal for corn, soybeans, and hearty perennials. The high soil score makes this an inviting landscape for anyone looking to start a productive home garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Lincoln County

via LawnByCounty

A Slightly Easier Path in Lincoln County

Lincoln County earns a lawn difficulty score of 52.1, placing it slightly above both the national median of 50.0 and the South Dakota average of 51.1. Residents in Hardiness Zone 5a find conditions manageable, though maintaining a lush lawn still requires attention to local climate shifts.

Sufficient Heat and Moderate Rain

The county receives 27.8 inches of annual precipitation, which is lower than the 30-inch ideal but significantly higher than the state average of 22.8 inches. With 2,727 growing degree days and only 15 extreme heat days, the climate supports a steady mowing schedule without the frequent heat stress seen elsewhere in the state.

Balanced Soil for Healthy Roots

The local soil features a near-perfect pH of 6.89, falling right within the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range for turfgrass. The composition is 28.2% clay and 21.0% sand, providing a stable foundation that holds nutrients well while remaining workable for most homeowners.

Managing Persistent Dry Spells

Despite the decent rainfall, the county spent 40 weeks in drought over the past year, and 100% of the area currently faces abnormally dry conditions. Homeowners should prioritize deep, infrequent watering to encourage deep root growth during these extended dry periods.

Start Your Lawn This Spring

Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescue thrive in this Zone 5a climate. Aim to seed or sod after the last spring frost on May 2, or wait for the late summer cooling to establish roots before the first frost on October 2.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lincoln County's county score?
Lincoln County, South Dakota has a composite county score of 34.4 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 Lincoln County rank among counties in South Dakota?
Lincoln County ranks #65 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 Lincoln County, South Dakota?
The median annual property tax in Lincoln County is $3,822, with an effective tax rate of 1.18%. This earns Lincoln County a tax score of 26.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Lincoln County?
The median household income in Lincoln County, South Dakota is $96,552 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Lincoln County earns an income score of 94.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Lincoln County, South Dakota a good place to live?
Lincoln County scores 34.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #65 in South Dakota. The best way to evaluate Lincoln 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 Lincoln County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛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.