Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Big Stone City, SD
Thinking of moving to Big Stone City, SD? With a friendly small-town feel and a population of just 465, it offers affordable housing (median home price $142,000, average rent $710) and a very low cost of living. Residents enjoy a short commute (16 minutes), low crime rates, and access to scenic lakeside recreation. While amenities are modest, the community values education and enjoys a sunny climate with crisp winters. Explore the details below to see if a peaceful, affordable lifestyle in Big Stone City is right for you.
Demographics - Big Stone City, SD
Demographics - Big Stone City, SD
Big Stone City is a close-knit community with a population of 465, predominantly White, and a median age of 47.1, indicating a mature demographic. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, creating a welcoming, stable atmosphere for new residents.
Population:
465
Density:
390 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.1
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.3%
Black:
0.2%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
3.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Big Stone City, SD?
Living in Big Stone City is highly affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values around $142,000. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also low, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals or families.
Median House Value:
$142,000
Gross Rent:
$710
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$125
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$320
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.2
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
68.5
Utilities:
95.2
Transportation:
82.0
Health Care:
98.7
Miscellaneous:
91.1
Crime
Is Big Stone City, SD a safe place to live?
Big Stone City experiences low crime rates, with just 110 violent crimes and 780 property crimes per 100,000 residents, offering a safe environment. Residents enjoy peace of mind with a very low chance of encountering violent crime.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
110
Property Crimes Per 100k:
780
Crime Index:
890
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 910
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 128
Weather
What is the weather like in Big Stone City, SD year-round?
Residents of Big Stone City experience four distinct seasons, with crisp winters averaging lows around 2°F and warm summers peaking at 83°F. The city enjoys 61% sunny days and receives about 24.5 inches of rainfall annually, making it ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety.
Winter
Min:
2°F
Max:
24°F
Spring
Min:
31°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
24.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $55,200 and a low unemployment rate of 3.1%, reflecting economic stability. Most residents have at least a high school education, and commute times average a short 16.4 minutes—contributing to a relaxed, small-town lifestyle.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$55,200
Family Income:
$62,400
Per Capita Income:
$27,400
Income Male:
$38,900
Income Female:
$29,800
Poverty Rate:
11.7%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$710
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
16.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.5%
Bachelors or More:
18.7%
Education
How are the schools in Big Stone City, SD?
Local education is anchored by Big Stone City Elementary, offering small class sizes and a strong student-teacher ratio, with additional higher education opportunities nearby at the University of Minnesota Morris. The community is dedicated to quality education for children and lifelong learners alike.
Public Schools
Name:
Big Stone City Elementary School
Street:
430 1st Ave
Phone:
605-862-8108
Students:
70
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5
Colleges
Name:
University of Minnesota Morris
City:
Morris
State:
MN
Distance:
54 miles
Students:
1,400
Healthcare
Healthcare needs are met by nearby facilities like Ortonville Area Health Services, with 1.4 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% of people insured. The city offers accessible general and emergency medical care for individuals and families alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Ortonville Area Health Services
Address:
450 Eastvold Ave, Ortonville, MN 56278
Phone:
(320) 839-6157
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.1%
Health Care Index:
71.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Big Stone City, SD?
Big Stone City’s housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $142,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 83%. Home appreciation is steady, and rental options are available with moderate vacancy rates, making the area suitable for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$142,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$710
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents handle licensing and vehicle services through the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, easily accessible online or via the main office in Pierre. The state’s straightforward DMV process supports new arrivals moving to Big Stone City.
State:
South Dakota
Department:
South Dakota Department of Public Safety - Driver Licensing
Address:
118 W Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD 57501
Phone:
605-773-6883
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.