Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Blue Dog Lake, SD
Considering a move to Blue Dog Lake, SD? This small lakeside community of about 75 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices at $178,000 and average rents around $780. Residents enjoy low crime rates, short 18-minute commutes, and access to nearby healthcare in De Smet and Clear Lake. The area features a relaxed, rural lifestyle, a strong owner-occupied housing rate, and easy access to outdoor recreation on the lake, making it ideal for those seeking peace and natural beauty.
Demographics - Blue Dog Lake, SD
Demographics - Blue Dog Lake, SD
Blue Dog Lake is a close-knit rural community with just 75 residents, a median age of 48.2, and a population density of 20 people per square mile. The town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of non-English speakers, offering a tranquil environment suited to those looking for a slower pace of life.
Population:
75
Density:
20 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.2
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
7.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Blue Dog Lake, SD?
The cost of living in Blue Dog Lake is notably lower than the national average, with a cost of living index of 85.3 and median home values at $178,000. Utilities and groceries are affordable, making the area attractive for individuals and families seeking budget-friendly living in South Dakota.
Median House Value:
$178,000
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,090
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$365
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.3
Grocery:
93.1
Housing:
74.5
Utilities:
93.0
Transportation:
87.4
Health Care:
91.2
Miscellaneous:
88.0
Crime
Is Blue Dog Lake, SD a safe place to live?
Blue Dog Lake experiences very low crime, with violent crime rates at just 74 per 100,000 people and residents facing a 1 in 1,350 chance of being a victim. This peaceful environment is ideal for those prioritizing safety and a sense of security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
74
Property Crimes Per 100k:
980
Crime Index:
1,054
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,350
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 102
Weather
What is the weather like in Blue Dog Lake, SD year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 83°F and cold winters dipping to 5°F. With 62% sunny days each year and average rainfall of 23.8 inches, the climate supports a variety of outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
5°F
Max:
28°F
Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
33°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
23.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The local community boasts a median household income of $56,200 and a low unemployment rate of 3.2%. Most residents drive to work, with an average commute of 18 minutes, and the area is known for its friendly, welcoming neighbors and strong community spirit.
Median Income:
$32,500
Household Income:
$56,200
Family Income:
$66,000
Per Capita Income:
$28,600
Income Male:
$36,500
Income Female:
$29,200
Poverty Rate:
11.7%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
18.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.4%
Bachelors or More:
22.5%
Education
How are the schools in Blue Dog Lake, SD?
Local students attend Waubay Public School, offering small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 10.4, while higher education opportunities are available 65 miles away at Northern State University in Aberdeen. The area values education, supporting a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Waubay Public School
Street:
202 W School Rd
Phone:
605-947-4529
Students:
235
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.4
Colleges
Name:
Northern State University
City:
Aberdeen
State:
SD
Distance:
65 miles
Students:
3,400
Healthcare
Healthcare needs are met by nearby critical access hospitals in De Smet and Clear Lake, and 89.8% of residents have health insurance coverage. While there are about 1.1 physicians per 1,000 people, emergency services are readily accessible within a short drive.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Avera De Smet Memorial Hospital
Address:
306 Prairie Ave SW, De Smet, SD 57231
Phone:
(605) 854-3329
Type:
Critical Access
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Sanford Clear Lake Medical Center
Address:
701 3rd Ave S, Clear Lake, SD 57226
Phone:
(605) 874-2141
Type:
Critical Access
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.8%
Health Care Index:
68.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Blue Dog Lake, SD?
Blue Dog Lake's housing market is stable, with a median home price of $178,000 and nearly 80% of homes owner-occupied. Rental options are available with average rents at $780, and the area sees a modest home appreciation rate of 3.2% per year.
Median Home Price:
$178,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$780
Owner Occupied Rate:
79.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Driver licensing and vehicle registration are managed by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, with services available in Pierre and online for added convenience. Residents can find up-to-date DMV information and resources on the official state website.
State:
South Dakota
Department:
South Dakota Department of Public Safety - Driver Licensing
Address:
118 W Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD 57501
Phone:
1-605-773-6883
Website:
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