Corson County, South Dakota
Income Data
At a Glance
How Corson County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Data Story
About Household Income in Corson County, South Dakota
Corson County faces severe income gap
Corson County's median household income of $43,750 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by a stark $31,005, a devastating 41.5% income deficit that marks Corson among America's lowest-income counties. Per capita income of $20,743 is critically low, indicating systemic workforce challenges, limited employment diversity, or significant underemployment. These figures reflect deep structural economic challenges that require targeted intervention and opportunity development.
Corson represents South Dakota's poorest county
At $43,750, Corson County's median household income falls a stunning $23,176 below South Dakota's state average of $66,926, making it the lowest-income county in the dataset. Its per capita income of $20,743 represents just 58% of the state average of $35,667, indicating profound wage stagnation or employment barriers. Corson's position reflects economic isolation, limited industry, and persistent rural poverty challenges.
Corson lags all comparison counties significantly
Corson County's $43,750 median household income trails all neighboring counties by massive margins, sitting $19,142 below the next-lowest county (Clay at $58,794). With per capita income of $20,743, Corson underperforms all regional peers by 20–50%, indicating acute employment crisis or wage collapse. Geographic isolation and limited industry diversification likely compound Corson's economic disadvantages relative to regional neighbors.
Housing remains only affordable segment
Corson County's exceptional rent-to-income ratio of 13.0% offers the primary affordability advantage in an otherwise economically stressed county, though the benefit is limited by overall income scarcity. Median home values of just $73,800 keep homeownership theoretically accessible, yet household incomes may lack stability for mortgages despite low prices. Many residents likely depend on rental housing or inherited property, as traditional homeownership pathways remain difficult.
Prioritize stable employment and education
Corson County households face urgent need to build income stability and marketable skills before considering traditional wealth-building strategies, given severe median income constraints. Focus on accessing workforce development programs, trade certifications, or education pathways that lead to higher-wage employment within or beyond the county. Once household income reaches regional norms ($60,000+), redirect gains into emergency savings and retirement accounts as financial foundation strengthens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the median household income in Corson County, South Dakota?
How much do people earn in Corson County?
How does Corson County compare to the South Dakota average?
What is the per capita income in Corson County, South Dakota?
Is Corson County a low-income area in South Dakota?
How does Corson County rank for income in South Dakota?
Income Comparison Calculator
See how your household income compares in Corson County
Your income is above the Corson County median
County median: $43,750 per year
vs. County Median
+0%
vs. State Average
-35%
vs. National Median
-41%
Income Adequacy
Your monthly income ($3,646) vs. median rent ($473/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.
Grow Your Wealth
See how your income stacks up in Corson County, South Dakota? Start investing smarter with a robo-advisor that builds a diversified portfolio for you.
Start InvestingCounties with Similar Income Levels
Compare Financial Products in South Dakota
Compare savings accounts, CDs, and money market rates from top banks to make the most of your earnings.
Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.