68
County Score
Disaster Risk 96.6Safety 89.6Cost of Living 86.3

County Report Card

About Miner County, South Dakota

Miner County is a National Leader

With an impressive composite score of 68.0, Miner County far exceeds the national median of 50.0. It ranks as one of the most livable counties in the entire country.

Exceeding the State Average

Miner County's 68.0 score is much higher than the South Dakota average of 55.9. It represents a gold standard for rural livability within the state.

Maximum Security and Affordability

Miner shines with a risk score of 96.6 and a safety score of 89.6. Affordable living is also a key benefit, evidenced by a cost score of 86.3 and median rent of $563.

Upgrading Water Infrastructure

The water score of 22.5 is the only significant low point in an otherwise stellar profile. Improving water quality and delivery would solidify its top-tier standing.

The Best Overall Rural Balance

Miner County is perfect for families or retirees seeking the ultimate combination of safety, affordability, and income stability. It is a premier destination for a high-quality, secure life.

Score breakdown

Tax30.6Cost86.3Safety89.6Health70.4Schools53.6Income72.9Risk96.6Water22.5Weather47
🏛30.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠86.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼72.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡89.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
70.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓53.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
96.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧22.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤47
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨73.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱61.8
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

Miner County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Miner County

via TaxByCounty

Miner County slightly above national median

Miner County's effective tax rate of 1.108% exceeds the national median of 0.84%, and its median property tax of $1,264 is less than half the national median of $2,690. The county's median home value of $114,100 reflects its rural character, well below the national average of $281,900.

Above state average in South Dakota

Miner County ranks 38th among South Dakota's 66 counties with an effective tax rate of 1.108%, just above the state average of 1.094%. Its median property tax of $1,264 is below the state average of $1,785 due to lower home values.

Mid-range rate for the region

Miner County's 1.108% rate falls near the state average and below high-rate neighbors like McPherson County (1.554%) and Mellette County (1.529%). Its $1,264 median tax is among the lowest in the eight-county region.

What $114,100 home costs annually

The median Miner County home valued at $114,100 generates approximately $1,264 in annual property taxes. With mortgage, that figure rises to $1,899; without mortgage, it drops to $991.

Appeal if you think you're overvalued

Even in moderate-tax Miner County, homeowners should verify their assessments align with current market values. A property tax appeal costs nothing and could provide relief if your home is assessed above its true worth.

Cost of Living in Miner County

via CostByCounty

Miner County: rare national affordability

Miner County's 9.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks among America's most affordable housing markets, with renters dedicating less than one-tenth of income to shelter. At just $563 median rent and $72,589 household income, Miner delivers genuine breathing room compared to national norms.

South Dakota's affordability champion

Miner County's 9.3% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest in this eight-county comparison and substantially below South Dakota's state average of 13.8%. With median rent of $563—25% cheaper than the state average of $756—Miner stands alone as the state's most accessible housing market in this cohort.

Lowest burden among all eight

Miner County's $563 rent ties McPherson County's for cheapest in the region, but Miner pairs it with a 9.3% burden—the absolute lowest, beating every neighbor. This combination makes Miner the genuine affordability champion, offering true financial relief for renters.

Housing claims minimal earnings

Renters spend $563 monthly while homeowners face $668 against Miner's $72,589 income, meaning housing claims just 9-11% of gross earnings. This leaves maximum flexibility for savings, transportation, childcare, and other essentials compared to any peer county.

Best overall affordability option

Miner County emerges as the eight-county affordability leader, combining South Dakota's lowest rent-to-income ratio (9.3%) with accessible homeownership at $114,100 median value. For renters or buyers prioritizing maximum financial flexibility over premium amenities, Miner County delivers unmatched South Dakota affordability.

Income & Jobs in Miner County

via IncomeByCounty

Miner County income rivals national averages

Miner County's median household income of $72,589 sits just 3% below the national median of $74,755, demonstrating solid economic parity with typical U.S. household earnings. Per capita income of $34,056 slightly trails the national average, reflecting moderate individual earning capacity.

Above-average earner within South Dakota

Miner County's median household income of $72,589 exceeds the South Dakota state average of $66,926 by 8%, ranking among the stronger county economies statewide. Per capita income of $34,056 approaches the state average of $35,667, indicating reasonably consistent earning across households.

Miner County holds middle ground regionally

At $72,589, Miner County's median household income ranks solidly among regional peers, matching Marshall ($72,500) while trailing McCook ($80,847) and Lincoln ($96,552). The county significantly outperforms Mellette ($51,364), Lyman ($61,169), and McPherson ($62,024).

Exceptional housing affordability in Miner County

Miner County's rent-to-income ratio of 9.3% is the best in the entire region, meaning residents spend the smallest share of earnings on housing. The median home value of $114,100 is highly affordable, maximizing financial flexibility for savings and investments.

Miner County's affordability powers wealth building

Outstanding housing affordability combined with solid household incomes creates exceptional conditions for aggressive wealth-building in Miner County. Leverage low housing costs to maximize retirement contributions, build investment portfolios, and pursue long-term financial independence.

Safety in Miner County

via CrimeByCounty

Miner County Offers Exceptional Peace

Miner County's total crime rate of 216.3 per 100K is less than a tenth of the national average. It achieves an outstanding safety score of 99.7.

Well Below South Dakota's Average

The county's crime rate of 216.3 is far lower than the state average of 788.1 per 100K. It stands as one of the quietest and safest counties in South Dakota.

Safer Than Most Nearby Jurisdictions

Miner's crime rate is significantly lower than McCook County's 472.5 per 100K. Although data is provided by a single agency, the low numbers indicate a very secure region.

Property-Focused Crime Profile

Miner County reported 0 violent crimes, with the entire rate of 216.3 consisting of property crimes. This suggests a very low risk of personal harm for residents.

Basic Precautions Deter Theft

Prevent property theft by securing garages and outbuildings where tools or valuables are stored. Simple precautions like porch lights can keep the crime rate at these low levels.

Health in Miner County

via HealthByCounty

Miner County near U.S. health norms

Miner County's 77.9-year life expectancy is about 4.4 years below the U.S. average, with 13.7% of residents in poor or fair health. The county's health profile aligns closely with broader American patterns.

Above South Dakota's health baseline

Miner County's life expectancy of 77.9 years exceeds the state average of 75.4 years by 2.5 years, placing it solidly in South Dakota's healthier half. The county's poor/fair health rate is slightly below statewide norms.

Middle tier within the region

Miner County's 77.9-year life expectancy ranks above McCook County (76.7 years) and Lyman County (68.3 years) but trails Lincoln County (83.8 years) and McPherson County (81.7 years). The county performs solidly in its regional context.

Moderate coverage, limited primary care

Miner County's 10.6% uninsured rate is slightly below the state average, and the county provides 43 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—adequate for basic access. Mental health provider data is not available, suggesting potential gaps in behavioral health services.

Secure and maintain your coverage.

With limited primary care capacity and incomplete mental health provider networks, health insurance is essential to accessing available services. Check healthcare.gov annually to ensure your coverage is current and explore subsidies if your income qualifies.

Schools in Miner County

via SchoolsByCounty

The Efficient Howard School Network

Miner County maintains four public schools, including two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. A single district, Howard 48-3, serves the entire enrollment of 351 students. This compact infrastructure is designed for maximum efficiency in a rural setting.

Top-Tier Graduation and Solid Scores

Miner County achieves an impressive 90.0% graduation rate, far outstripping the state average of 82.4%. With a per-pupil spend of $7,681 and a school score of 55.0, the county exceeds state benchmarks in both investment and results. The academic performance here is some of the strongest in the region.

Howard School District Leads the County

The Howard School District 48-3 manages all 351 students in the county across its four campuses. There are zero charter schools, as the local district provides a comprehensive K-12 experience for the community. This unified approach contributes to the county's high graduation rates.

Intimate Rural Schools in Howard

The county’s schools are exclusively rural, with an average enrollment of only 88 students. Howard Elementary is the largest at 129 students, while Shannon Colony Elementary serves a small group of 33. This tiny average size ensures that every student gets the attention they need to succeed.

High Graduation Rates Await in Miner

Families looking for elite academic outcomes in a small-town setting should prioritize Miner County. The 90% graduation rate is a powerful indicator of the quality of life and education found in the Howard district. Find your next home here to give your children a head start in a top-performing system.

Disaster Risk in Miner County

via RiskByCounty

Miner County ranks among the nation's safest areas

Miner County's composite risk score of 3.44 places it among the safest counties in the United States, earning a "Very Low" rating that reflects exceptional resilience to natural disasters. All major hazards—flood (4.17), earthquake (9.80), and tornado (26.56)—rank well below national averages, with wildfire risk (40.27) being the county's only moderate exposure. Residents experience natural disaster risk levels lower than the vast majority of Americans.

Miner is South Dakota's safest county overall

Miner County's composite risk score of 3.44 is the lowest in South Dakota, falling far below the state average of 26.84 and reflecting the county's exceptional natural disaster resilience. All major hazard categories—flood (4.17), earthquake (9.80), wildfire (40.27), and tornado (26.56)—are well below state and national norms. Residents enjoy natural disaster exposure levels superior to virtually all other state and national peers.

Miner's exceptional safety stands alone regionally

Miner County's composite risk of 3.44 is substantially lower than any sampled neighbor, including Mellette County (5.15) and McPherson County (11.13), making it the region's safest county by a significant margin. Even Miner's wildfire risk (40.27) is the lowest among all sampled counties, revealing balanced low exposure rather than a concentrated hazard vulnerability. The county presents a uniquely protected natural disaster profile.

Natural disaster risk is minimal across all hazards

Miner County faces exceptionally low exposure across all major natural disaster types: wildfire risk (40.27) is the highest hazard, but still well below state and national averages, while flood (4.17), earthquake (9.80), and tornado (26.56) risks are all minimal. No single hazard requires special attention or targeted preparedness efforts. For residents, natural disaster planning can follow standard baseline protocols without county-specific adjustments.

Standard coverage adequate for minimal risk

Miner County's exceptionally low natural disaster risk means a basic homeowners insurance policy provides adequate protection without requiring specialized wildfire, flood, or earthquake coverage unless your property is in a designated flood zone. Annual policy review ensures coverage limits align with replacement costs, but the county's overall low-risk profile allows residents to prioritize insurance needs differently than higher-hazard areas. Standard homeowners and auto coverage represents appropriate protection for most residents.

Weather & Climate in Miner County

via WeatherByCounty

Classic Continental Climate of the Plains

Miner County maintains an annual average temperature of 46.6°F, which is cool compared to the national average. It receives a healthy 26.4 inches of precipitation, making it more moisture-rich than the western US. The climate is defined by cold winters and warm, humid summers.

Warmer and Wetter Than the State

Miner County's average temperature of 46.6°F is exactly one degree warmer than the South Dakota average of 45.6°F. It also receives nearly four inches more precipitation than the state average of 22.7 inches. This combination makes it a relatively mild and damp part of the state.

Consistent Precipitation and Moderate Heat

Miner County sees 14 days of extreme heat, which is fewer than its neighbors to the west. Its 35.8 inches of annual snowfall is typical for the region, keeping winters consistently cold. The county's 26.4 inches of rain ensures it avoids the drought-prone conditions of the western plains.

Predictable Snowfall and Temperate Summers

July averages 73.7°F, while January brings a cold average of 16.8°F. The county experiences 35.8 inches of snow spread across a long winter season that averages 20.0°F. Summers are generally pleasant, as extreme heat over 90°F only occurs about 14 days a year.

Managing Moisture and Winter Chill

With 26.4 inches of precipitation, residents should ensure proper basement waterproofing and drainage. Standard winter clothing and snow tires are necessary for the 35.8 inches of annual snow. Energy costs are balanced by the relatively low number of extreme heat days compared to central South Dakota.

Soil Quality in Miner County

via SoilByCounty

High-Quality, Near-Neutral Soil

Miner County features high-quality soil with a pH of 6.92, making it more neutral than the state average of 7.05. This excellent balance helps the county achieve a superior soil score of 73.9.

Silt-Dominant Nutrient Powerhouse

The soil is dominated by 50.4% silt, with clay and sand making up the remaining halves. This silty texture is renowned for its ability to hold nutrients while remaining manageable for backyard gardening and farming.

Exceptional Water Retention and Fertility

Fertility is a highlight here, with organic matter at 3.89% and a very high water capacity of 0.205 in/in. These figures outperform state averages, making the land exceptionally resilient to short-term dry spells.

Moderate Drainage for Healthy Roots

The 50.4% silt content usually indicates moderate drainage that supports deep root systems. This allows the soil to stay moist enough for plant health without becoming easily waterlogged.

A Gardener's Dream in Zone 5a

In hardiness zone 5a, Miner County is a dream for growers thanks to its 73.9 soil score. The rich water capacity makes it an ideal spot for high-yield vegetable patches and lush ornamental gardens.

Lawn Care in Miner County

via LawnByCounty

Top-Tier Conditions in Miner County

Miner County is a haven for lawn enthusiasts, boasting a difficulty score of 61.8. This is the highest score in the region, indicating that local climate and soil conditions are exceptionally favorable compared to the rest of South Dakota.

Optimal Rain and Moderate Heat

The county receives a healthy 26.4 inches of annual precipitation, which is well above the state average. Combined with only 14 extreme heat days, the grass remains active and green for more of the 2,866 growing degree days.

Prime Soil for Green Lawns

With a pH of 6.92 and a balanced mix of 25.7% clay and 23.9% sand, the soil is nearly ideal for lawn health. These conditions allow for excellent root penetration and nutrient uptake with very little need for specialized amendments.

Brief and Manageable Droughts

While currently 100% abnormally dry, the county only saw 20 weeks of drought over the past year. This relatively low drought pressure means the lawn can recover quickly with basic irrigation after a dry spell ends.

Take Advantage of the Season

You have a generous growing window between the May 5 last frost and the October 2 first frost. This is the perfect environment to grow high-quality Kentucky Bluegrass or Perennial Ryegrass for a show-stopping lawn.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Miner County's county score?
Miner County, South Dakota has a composite county score of 68 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 Miner County rank among counties in South Dakota?
Miner County ranks #6 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 Miner County, South Dakota?
The median annual property tax in Miner County is $1,264, with an effective tax rate of 1.11%. This earns Miner County a tax score of 30.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Miner County?
The median household income in Miner County, South Dakota is $72,589 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Miner County earns an income score of 72.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Miner County, South Dakota a good place to live?
Miner County scores 68/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #6 in South Dakota. The best way to evaluate Miner 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 Miner County with other counties side by side.