Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bonesteel, SD
Considering a move to Bonesteel, SD? This small, friendly town of 260 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $72,000 and average rents near $550. Residents enjoy short 15-minute commutes, low utility costs, and a relaxed rural lifestyle. Local schools feature small class sizes, crime rates are low, and sunny days are plentiful. If you value close-knit community living, wide open spaces, and budget-friendly housing, Bonesteel welcomes you!
Demographics - Bonesteel, SD
Demographics - Bonesteel, SD
Bonesteel is a small community of 260 residents, with a median age of nearly 48, reflecting a mature population. The town is predominantly White, with a significant Native American presence, and maintains a balanced gender ratio. This close-knit environment offers a blend of cultural backgrounds and a slower pace of life.
Population:
260
Density:
500 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.8
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.3%

Ethnic Composition
White:
82.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bonesteel, SD?
Living in Bonesteel is highly affordable, with median home values at just $72,000 and average rent of $550. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking budget-friendly housing and expenses. With low state income taxes and reasonable utility costs, residents enjoy a low-cost lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$72,000
Gross Rent:
$550
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,025
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$720
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$330
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.5
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
52.0
Utilities:
90.0
Transportation:
85.0
Health Care:
92.0
Miscellaneous:
88.0
Crime
Is Bonesteel, SD a safe place to live?
Bonesteel experiences low crime rates, with violent crimes at 210 per 100,000 residents and property crimes at 1,500 per 100,000. The odds of being involved in a violent crime are about 1 in 476, providing peace of mind for families and individuals. This safe environment is ideal for those valuing security in a small-town setting.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
210
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,500
Crime Index:
1,710
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 476
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 66
Weather
What is the weather like in Bonesteel, SD year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with summer highs reaching 87°F and winter lows dipping to 8°F. The area receives about 23 inches of rainfall annually and boasts around 62% sunny days, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes provide variety while maintaining generally pleasant weather throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
32°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
87°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
23.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Bonesteel neighbors enjoy a median household income of $40,600 and a low unemployment rate of 3.2%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and commute times are short, averaging under 15 minutes. This fosters a supportive, easygoing community with a modest cost of living and minimal reliance on public transportation.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$40,600
Family Income:
$47,200
Per Capita Income:
$21,500
Income Male:
$33,000
Income Female:
$27,000
Poverty Rate:
18.8%
Non English Speakers:
5.3%
Rent:
$550
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
14.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
88.3%
Bachelors or More:
13.2%
Education
How are the schools in Bonesteel, SD?
Bonesteel is served by a local public school with small class sizes, fostering personalized attention for its 120 students. The town does not have private schools, but higher education is accessible at Mount Marty University, about 67 miles away. The community values education, with most adults holding at least a high school diploma.

Public Schools
Name:
Bonesteel-Fairfax School (Gregory School District)
Street:
101 School St, Bonesteel, SD 57317
Phone:
605-654-2244
Students:
120
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5

Colleges
Name:
Mount Marty University
City:
Yankton
State:
SD
Distance:
67 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Healthcare in Bonesteel is anchored by the nearby Avera Gregory Hospital, offering general and emergency services. With nearly 90% of residents covered by health insurance and a healthcare index of 69.4, basic medical needs are well supported. Physician availability is comparable to many rural areas, ensuring access to essential care.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Avera Gregory Hospital
Address:
400 Park Ave, Gregory, SD 57533
Phone:
(605) 835-8394
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.2%
Health Care Index:
69.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bonesteel, SD?
The Bonesteel housing market is notably affordable, with median home prices at $72,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of nearly 75%. Rental options are available at an average rate of $550 for a two-bedroom, and the area experiences low foreclosure and vacancy rates. Modest home appreciation indicates stable, budget-friendly real estate.
Median Home Price:
$72,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$550
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Driver licensing and vehicle services for Bonesteel residents are managed by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety in Pierre. The DMV provides essential services and information online and by phone, making it easy for locals to handle licensing and registration needs. Accessible resources ensure a straightforward experience for new and current residents.
State:
South Dakota
Department:
South Dakota Department of Public Safety - Driver Licensing
Address:
118 West Capitol Avenue, 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.