Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ethan, SD
Considering a move to Ethan, SD? This small town of around 365 residents offers a friendly rural atmosphere, affordable living with median home prices near $137,000, and low rent. Crime rates are lower than national averages, commute times are short at about 20 minutes, and the cost of living is well below the U.S. average. With strong local schools, nearby medical facilities in Mitchell, and plenty of sunny days, Ethan is a peaceful choice for those seeking quiet, community-oriented living.
Demographics - Ethan, SD
Ethan, SD is a small, close-knit community of about 365 residents, with a population density of 1,100 per square mile and a median age of 36.8. The town is predominantly White, with 97.8% of residents identifying as such, and has a nearly even gender ratio. A low percentage of non-English speakers and a youthful demographic contribute to a welcoming rural atmosphere.
Population:
365
Density:
1,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.8
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
97.8%
Black:
0.3%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
1.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ethan, SD?
Ethan offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values around $137,000 and average rents near $650 per month. The cost of living index is 81.2, well below the national average, and state taxes are nonexistent, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families. Utilities and everyday expenses remain comparatively low, enhancing overall affordability.
Median House Value:
$137,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,040
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.2
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
60.0
Utilities:
85.0
Transportation:
85.0
Health Care:
98.0
Miscellaneous:
93.0
Crime
Is Ethan, SD a safe place to live?
Ethan experiences lower crime rates than many areas, with only 130 violent crimes and 1,050 property crimes per 100,000 residents. Residents have a low chance of becoming a victim, with odds of 1 in 770 for violent crime and 1 in 95 for property crime. This contributes to a strong sense of safety and peace of mind for families.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
130
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,180
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 770
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Ethan, SD year-round?
Residents in Ethan enjoy a climate with cold winters, where temperatures can dip to 7°F, and warm summers reaching up to 87°F. The area receives about 23.5 inches of annual rainfall and boasts 60% sunny days, providing a variety of seasonal outdoor activities. Spring and fall offer mild, comfortable weather ideal for enjoying the rural surroundings.

Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
28°F

Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
61°F

Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
87°F

Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
23.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
The Ethan community is characterized by a median household income of $57,800 and a low unemployment rate of 2.6%. Most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and poverty rates are relatively modest at 9.2%. The town's rural nature means no public transportation, and average commutes are short at just over 20 minutes.
Median Income:
$32,500
Household Income:
$57,800
Family Income:
$65,000
Per Capita Income:
$23,800
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
9.2%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
2.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0%
Commute Time:
20.1 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.5%
Bachelors or More:
19.5%
Education
How are the schools in Ethan, SD?
Ethan offers strong educational opportunities through its local public schools, with small class sizes fostering personalized learning. Nearby Mitchell provides access to higher education at institutions like Mitchell Technical College and Dakota Wesleyan University. The majority of residents hold at least a high school diploma, reflecting a community that values education.

Public Schools
Name:
Ethan Elementary School
Street:
320 S 2nd St
Phone:
605-227-4211
Students:
95
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Name:
Ethan High School
Street:
320 S 2nd St
Phone:
605-227-4211
Students:
80
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.2

Colleges
Name:
Mitchell Technical College
City:
Mitchell
State:
SD
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
1,250
Name:
Dakota Wesleyan University
City:
Mitchell
State:
SD
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
900
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare nearby, including general and emergency services at Avera Queen of Peace Hospital in Mitchell. With 1.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% health insurance coverage, healthcare is accessible for most locals. The area’s healthcare index of 76.5 indicates reliable service for a small town.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Avera Queen of Peace Hospital
Address:
525 N Foster St, Mitchell, SD 57301
Phone:
(605) 995-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.5%
Health Care Index:
76.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ethan, SD?
Ethan's housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $137,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $650. High owner-occupancy rates at 78.2% reflect a community of long-term residents, while low vacancy and foreclosure rates suggest a healthy, steady market. Modest home appreciation provides solid value for buyers.
Median Home Price:
$137,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
DMV services for Ethan are managed by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, based in Pierre. Residents can access licensing, registration, and other vehicle services both online and through regional offices. The state’s straightforward DMV system ensures convenience for local drivers.
State:
South Dakota
Department:
South Dakota Department of Public Safety
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.