Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Chamberlain, SD
Chamberlain, SD is a welcoming Missouri River community of about 2,400, known for affordable living with median home prices around $191,000 and average rents near $790. Residents enjoy short 11-minute commutes, low unemployment, and a strong sense of community. The area boasts a high percentage of sunny days (62%), access to local schools and a regional hospital, and a cost of living well below the national average. With a modest crime rate and outdoor recreation nearby, Chamberlain offers a relaxed pace for families or retirees.
Demographics - Chamberlain, SD
Demographics - Chamberlain, SD
Chamberlain, SD is home to approximately 2,400 residents, with a median age of 39 and a diverse community, including a significant Native American population. The city offers a balanced gender ratio and a welcoming environment for families and individuals alike. Non-English speakers make up a small portion of the community, reflecting the area's close-knit and accessible atmosphere.
Population:
2,400
Density:
970 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
75.5%
Black:
0.6%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
4.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Chamberlain, SD?
Chamberlain offers a notably affordable cost of living, with the median home value around $191,000 and average rents at $790. Utilities and daily expenses are lower than the national average, making it an appealing option for those seeking budget-friendly living. With no state income tax, residents also benefit from increased take-home pay.
Median House Value:
$191,000
Gross Rent:
$790
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,075
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.0
Grocery:
93.5
Housing:
68.0
Utilities:
95.0
Transportation:
82.5
Health Care:
93.0
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Chamberlain, SD a safe place to live?
The city experiences a modest crime rate, with violent crime well below the national average and a 1 in 480 chance of being a victim. Property crimes are more common but still manageable, providing residents with a generally safe and secure environment. Chamberlain's crime index reflects its reputation as a peaceful, small-town community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
208
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,610
Crime Index:
1,818
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 480
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 62
Weather
What is the weather like in Chamberlain, SD year-round?
Chamberlain enjoys four distinct seasons, featuring warm summers with highs near 87°F and cold winters dropping to 8°F. Residents benefit from about 62% sunny days and moderate annual rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and river recreation. The climate supports a variety of seasonal experiences throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
29°F

Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
65°F

Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
87°F

Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
21.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Neighbors in Chamberlain typically enjoy a short 11-minute commute and a low unemployment rate of 2.6%. Median household incomes are modest, and the area boasts a high rate of high school graduates, contributing to its family-friendly and supportive community feel. Public transportation is minimal, reflecting the city's small-town character.
Median Income:
$32,300
Household Income:
$55,200
Family Income:
$66,500
Per Capita Income:
$27,600
Income Male:
$39,100
Income Female:
$27,400
Poverty Rate:
13.1%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$790
Unemployment Rate:
2.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
10.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.4%
Bachelors or More:
20.5%
Education
How are the schools in Chamberlain, SD?
Chamberlain offers quality educational options, including public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and a private school serving the community. Higher education is accessible within an hour’s drive, with institutions like Mitchell Technical College nearby. The city’s educational resources support lifelong learning for families and individuals.

Public Schools
Name:
Chamberlain High School
Street:
1000 Sorensen Dr
Phone:
605-234-4467
Students:
280
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1
Name:
Chamberlain Elementary School
Street:
300 S Byron Blvd
Phone:
605-234-4477
Students:
390
Student Teacher Ratio:
14:1

Private Schools
Name:
St. Joseph's Indian School
Street:
1301 N Main St
Phone:
605-234-3300
Students:
200

Colleges
Name:
Mitchell Technical College
City:
Mitchell
State:
SD
Distance:
58 miles
Students:
1,200
Name:
Dakota Wesleyan University
City:
Mitchell
State:
SD
Distance:
58 miles
Students:
900
Healthcare
Residents have access to the Sanford Chamberlain Medical Center, offering general and emergency care locally. With nearly 92% health insurance coverage and 1.6 physicians per 1,000 people, healthcare is accessible for most. The city’s healthcare index indicates dependable medical resources for a community of its size.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Sanford Chamberlain Medical Center
Address:
300 S Byron Blvd, Chamberlain, SD 57325
Phone:
(605) 234-6551
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.9%
Health Care Index:
68.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Chamberlain, SD?
Chamberlain’s housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $191,000 and about two-thirds of homes owner-occupied. Rental options remain affordable, and the area sees steady home appreciation, reflecting stable real estate values. The low foreclosure and vacancy rates indicate a healthy and reliable market for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$191,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$790
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Driver licensing and vehicle services for Chamberlain are managed by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, located in Pierre. Residents can access licensing information, renewals, and other DMV services online or by phone, ensuring convenient support for local drivers. This centralized approach streamlines vehicle-related tasks for Chamberlain residents.
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:
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.