Average Rent in Lake County, SD↓ Rents falling 5.2% YoY

Lake County, SD has rental prices ranging from $603/month to $1,445/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $670/month — 52% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $73,792/year, spending $670/month on a 1-bedroom represents 11% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Lake County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $879/month, Lake County ranks #27 most expensive of the 64 cities tracked in South Dakota — more affordable than 80% of all US cities in our data.

The Lake County Rental Market

The Lake County, SD area has a population of about 11,052 and 29% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Lake County, SD have fallen by $48/month (5.2%) over the past year, from $927 to $879. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Lake County, SD without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $26,800. The local median household income of $73,792 exceeds that threshold by $46,992, making Lake County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Lake County, SD has an unemployment rate of 2.0%, 1.9 percentage points below the national average of 3.9%. Strong employment conditions typically sustain rental demand, as workers relocate to the area and local residents maintain stable housing.

Is Lake County, SD Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Lake County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Lake County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.