countyscore
50.5
County Score
Cost of Living 99Safety 97.5Disaster Risk 63.4

County Report Card

About Todd County, South Dakota

Competitive Affordability on the National Stage

Todd County holds a composite score of 50.4, aligning almost exactly with the national median of 50.0. While it faces specific socioeconomic hurdles, its housing affordability is virtually unmatched nationwide. This creates a unique entry point for those seeking low-cost living.

Navigating State Economic Challenges

Todd County's 50.4 score trails the South Dakota state average of 55.9. The county faces significant headwinds in income and health compared to more urbanized parts of the state. However, it remains one of the safest regions in South Dakota.

Unrivaled Safety and Housing Value

Todd County features an elite safety score of 97.5 and a cost score of 99.0. With median home values at $45,200 and rents at $537, it is one of the most affordable places to live in the country. Environmental risk is also relatively low with a score of 63.4.

Critical Gaps in Income and Taxes

The county struggles with an income score of 2.5 and a health score of 8.8, reflecting deep economic needs. High effective tax rates of 2.226% result in a very low tax score of 1.8. While water quality data is currently unavailable, these other metrics highlight areas requiring significant investment.

A Haven for Low-Cost Security

Todd County best suits individuals who prioritize extremely low housing costs and personal safety above all else. It is a challenging environment for career growth but offers a peaceful, very affordable lifestyle. Prospective residents should be prepared for limited local healthcare and infrastructure.

Score breakdown

Tax1.8Cost99Safety97.5Health8.8Schools28.7Income2.5Risk63.4WaterComing SoonWeather36.4
🏛1.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠99
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼2.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡97.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤8.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓28.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡63.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤36.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨55.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱50.1
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 →
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Nearby counties

Mellette County
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Tripp County
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Jones County
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Keya Paha County
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Bennett County
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Brown County
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Deep Dives

Todd County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Todd County

via TaxByCounty

Todd's rate ranks among nation's highest

Todd County's 2.226% effective rate stands far above the national median of 1.56%, placing it in the top tier of American counties for tax burden. This exceptional rate reflects Todd's unique economic and property value circumstances compared to national norms.

Todd carries South Dakota's heaviest load

Todd County's 2.226% rate more than doubles South Dakota's state average of 1.094%, marking it as the state's most heavily taxed county by far. Despite this steep rate, Todd's median property tax of just $1,006 remains lowest in the sample due to an extremely low median home value of $45,200.

Todd's rate dwarfs all regional peers

Todd's 2.226% rate crushes every neighboring county—Tripp (0.902%), Sully (0.854%), Walworth (1.435%), and others—by massive margins. This exceptional rate reflects Todd's distinct demographic and economic profile within the region.

Todd median home: $1,006 yearly tax

Despite the highest effective rate in the sample, a typical Todd County home valued at $45,200 generates only $1,006 in annual property taxes. With mortgage considerations, tax liability reaches $1,324—lowest in the region due to the county's significantly lower home valuations.

Appeals matter most at highest rates

Todd County residents face the steepest tax rates in South Dakota, making assessment appeals particularly valuable for tax relief. Even modest reductions in assessed value compound into substantial annual savings given Todd's exceptionally high effective rate.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Todd County

via CostByCounty

Todd County faces acute affordability crisis

Todd County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.5% far exceeds the South Dakota state average of 13.8% and signals severe housing affordability strain. With a median household income of just $39,148—barely half the national median of $74,755—renters pay $537 monthly for housing that consumes an outsized portion of household earnings.

South Dakota's most strained housing market

Todd County ranks among the least affordable counties in South Dakota, with income levels significantly below the state average and a rent-to-income ratio well above the state benchmark. The combination of low household incomes and elevated housing cost burdens reveals a county struggling with economic inequality.

Todd County's income crisis magnifies costs

While Todd County's median rent of $537 is the lowest in the region, the median household income of $39,148 is dramatically lower than surrounding counties like Tripp ($58,854) and Walworth ($62,722). This income deficit transforms even modest rents into unaffordable burdens.

Housing dominates household budgets

Renters in Todd County allocate 16.5% of income to rent, while homeowners spend roughly 12.4% on ownership costs ($405 against $39,148 income). For many households, housing consumes a larger share of budget than is sustainable, leaving limited funds for other necessities.

Todd County requires careful consideration

Todd County's combination of low income levels and high housing burden ratios makes it challenging for most relocators unless employment offers substantial local wages. Job seekers should verify local employment conditions before considering a move, as the county's economic fundamentals differ significantly from higher-income neighbors.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Todd County

via IncomeByCounty

Todd faces severe income challenges

Todd County's median household income of $39,148 represents roughly 48% of the U.S. median of $74,755—one of the starkest income gaps in America. Per capita income of just $13,849 trails the national average by 82%, signaling systemic economic disadvantage across the entire county.

Lowest-earning county in South Dakota

Todd County ranks dead last statewide, with median household income 41% below South Dakota's average of $66,926 and per capita income 61% below the state average of $35,667. This persistent gap reflects Todd's placement within the Rosebud Indian Reservation and resulting structural economic challenges.

Todd struggles amid regional inequality

Todd's $39,148 median household income is less than two-thirds of any neighboring county, with Tripp County ($58,854) earning 50% more and Union County ($84,137) nearly doubling Todd's median. This stark regional disparity underscores Todd's distinct economic position within South Dakota.

Housing affordability paradox

Despite a rent-to-income ratio of 16.5%, Todd County faces deeper affordability stress than raw percentages suggest—households earning $39,000 struggle with basic needs before housing. The median home value of $45,200 remains the state's lowest, yet represents nearly 1.2 years of median household income.

Todd needs systemic economic support

Todd County households face income constraints that make traditional wealth-building strategies difficult; priority must shift to maximizing available benefits, education opportunities, and local economic development. Community members should explore microfinance programs, skill-training initiatives, and local business incubators designed for low-income regions.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Todd County

via CrimeByCounty

Todd County Reports Minimal Crime

Official 2022 records show a total crime rate of 0.0 per 100,000 for Todd County, compared to the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a safety score of 100.0, though data reporting should be viewed with caution.

Interpreting Local Safety Stats

While the county's score of 100.0 is technically higher than the state average of 98.8, the reporting of zero crimes may reflect data collection gaps. With only one agency reporting, these figures might not capture all local incidents.

How Todd Compares Regionally

Todd County appears statistically safer than all neighboring counties due to its reported zero crime rate. However, actual safety conditions should be verified with local law enforcement rather than relying solely on these metrics.

The Reality of Crime Reporting

Current data lists both violent and property crime at 0.0 per 100,000. In practical terms, this suggests a need for more robust data reporting from local agencies to provide a clearer picture for residents.

Practical Home Security Advice

Regardless of official statistics, standard home security remains a wise investment. Utilize common-sense measures like deadbolt locks and home alarm systems to ensure personal safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Todd County

via HealthByCounty

Todd faces profound health crisis

Todd County's life expectancy of 58.8 years is more than 18 years below the U.S. average—the lowest in this group by far. Nearly one-third (33.2%) of residents report poor or fair health, a rate that rivals the worst-performing U.S. counties.

Severe health disparities within South Dakota

Todd County's life expectancy trails South Dakota's state average by 16.6 years, creating a stark health divide. The 33.2% poor/fair health rate indicates systemic challenges to community wellness.

Lowest primary care access in the region

Todd has only 22 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—less than one-quarter of Stanley County's 99. Mental health support is available at 98 providers per 100K, but primary care scarcity limits preventive care.

Health insurance gap compounds existing barriers

Todd County's uninsured rate of 13.2% exceeds the state average, meaning coverage barriers compound provider shortages. The combination of limited providers and uninsured residents creates compounding obstacles to care.

Health coverage is your first step forward

In Todd County, securing insurance is critical—13% of residents lack coverage, making access even harder. Visit Healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 to enroll and get connected to care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Todd County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Broad Network of Rural Schools

Todd County supports a large educational infrastructure with 13 public schools serving 2,044 students. The landscape includes eight elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools, along with two alternative campuses. This extensive network ensures that students across the county's vast rural areas have access to a nearby classroom.

Investing in Growth and Opportunities

Todd County faces unique challenges with a graduation rate of 62%, which sits below the state average of 82.4%. The county spends $7,709 per pupil, slightly exceeding the state average of $7,409 to support its diverse student body. Educators are working to improve the current school score of 40.3 through dedicated local initiatives.

Unified Oversight via Todd County District

Todd County School District 66-1 manages all 13 schools and 2,044 students in the region. There are no charter schools, meaning the district is the primary provider of both traditional and alternative education. This centralized management helps coordinate services for a high number of elementary schools scattered throughout the county.

Deeply Rural and Community Centered

All 13 schools in Todd County are in rural locales, reflecting the county’s expansive geography. While the average school size is 170 students, Todd County High School is the largest campus with 496 students. This contrasts with smaller neighborhood schools like He Dog Elementary, which serves 195 students in a primary setting.

Connecting Your Next Home to Local Schools

For families moving to the area, the Todd County School District provides a wide range of elementary options in every corner of the county. Understanding the local school landscape is a vital part of finding the right property here. Explore homes today to see how your family can become part of this expansive rural education system.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Todd County

via RiskByCounty

Todd County faces above-average natural risks

Todd County scores 36.61 on the composite risk scale, significantly higher than the national average and placing it in the Very Low category. This county experiences elevated exposure across multiple hazard types.

Todd ranks among South Dakota's riskier counties

At 36.61, Todd County exceeds the state average of 26.84 and ranks among the state's higher-risk areas. Only a few South Dakota counties face comparable multi-hazard exposure.

Todd faces elevated risks in its region

Todd County's 36.61 score ranks it significantly higher than Stanley (5.06) and Sully (6.33) but compares closely to Tripp County (36.45) and Union County (37.12). This positions Todd in the higher-risk tier of its peer group.

Wildfire and tornado hazards dominate

Wildfire risk leads at 94.08—among the highest in South Dakota—followed by tornado risk (41.70) and flood risk (28.31). Residents face compounded exposure to fire, severe weather, and water hazards.

Invest in comprehensive disaster coverage

Todd County residents should secure robust homeowners insurance that covers fire, wind, hail, and flood damage. Consider additional coverage riders and maintain defensible space around structures to reduce wildfire vulnerability.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Todd County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool Temperatures on the Southern Border

Todd County averages 47.1°F, placing it among the cooler regions of the United States. Its semi-arid climate receives 21.7 inches of annual precipitation.

Warmer Than the State Median

Thanks to its southern location, Todd is warmer than the 45.6°F state average. It functions as a bridge between the cold northern plains and the milder central plains.

Moderate Snow and Steady Rain

With 41.1 inches of snow, Todd is snowier than Stanley but less so than Tripp. Its 21.7 inches of rain is very representative of the state's overall moisture levels.

Hot Summers and Balanced Winters

The county experiences 32 days of extreme heat annually, with July averaging 73.6°F. Winters are somewhat milder than the northern counties, with a January average of 22.5°F.

Gear Up for Variable Precipitation

Residents should invest in versatile four-season gear to handle both the 41.1 inches of snow and the 32 days of heat. Maintaining efficient cooling is vital for the peaks of the 70.7°F summer.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Todd County

via SoilByCounty

Unique High-Organic Landscapes

Todd County features a pH of 6.89, placing it slightly above the 6.5 national median. The county’s soil profile is distinctive, resulting in an overall soil score of 55.9.

Sandy and Workable Earth

Sand dominates this landscape at 58.5%, while clay makes up only 12.3%. This sandy profile ensures very high workability for gardeners, though it requires careful management of water.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

The soil contains a massive 6.02% organic matter, nearly triple the national average of 2.0%. However, the available water capacity is low at 0.136 in/in because sand allows moisture to pass through quickly.

Rapid Moisture Movement

Formal drainage data are not recorded, but the high sand percentage implies very rapid water movement. Gardeners should plan for frequent irrigation to fully utilize the rich organic reserves.

Thriving in Zone 5a

Hardiness Zone 5a allows for a longer season for peppers, tomatoes, and melons. Use that incredible organic matter to grow a lush garden that takes advantage of the warmer local climate.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Todd County

via LawnByCounty

Average Conditions in Todd County

Todd County reports a lawn difficulty score of 50.1, matching the national average almost exactly. Situated in Hardiness Zone 5a, it offers a slightly milder winter than the northern parts of the state.

Warm Summers and Dry Air

The county averages 21.7 inches of rain and 32 extreme heat days per year. These factors, combined with 2,722 growing degree days, mean that lawn growth is aggressive in spring but requires heavy watering in July.

Sandy Soil Means Rapid Drainage

Unlike much of the state, Todd County soils are 58.5% sand and only 12.3% clay. This creates excellent drainage but also means nutrients and water wash through the root zone quickly, requiring more frequent, light fertilization.

Widespread Dryness Impacts Local Lawns

Currently, 100% of the county is classified as abnormally dry, following 26 weeks of drought over the past year. In these sandy conditions, mulching clippings back into the lawn is essential to help retain moisture.

Success in Zone 5a

Hardiness Zone 5a allows for a variety of perennial ryegrasses and tall fescues. Aim to get new seeds in the ground after May 11th to avoid the late spring frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Todd County's county score?
Todd County, South Dakota has a composite county score of 50.5 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 Todd County rank among counties in South Dakota?
Todd County ranks #48 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 Todd County, South Dakota?
The median annual property tax in Todd County is $1,006, with an effective tax rate of 2.23%. This earns Todd County a tax score of 1.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Todd County?
The median household income in Todd County, South Dakota is $39,148 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Todd County earns an income score of 2.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Todd County, South Dakota a good place to live?
Todd County scores 50.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #48 in South Dakota. The best way to evaluate Todd 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 Todd 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.