Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fort Thompson, SD
Considering a move to Fort Thompson, SD? This small town of 1,210 is known for its predominantly Native American community and affordable living, with median home prices around $70,000 and rents near $600. While the cost of living is low, be mindful of higher poverty and unemployment rates, and a modest educational attainment. Commute times are short at 13.6 minutes, and you’ll enjoy over 60% sunny days annually. The area offers basic healthcare and a peaceful, rural lifestyle near the scenic Missouri River.
Demographics - Fort Thompson, SD
Demographics - Fort Thompson, SD
Fort Thompson is a small community of 1,210 residents, with a youthful median age of 27.5 and a strong Native American presence making up nearly 90% of the population. The area features a balanced gender ratio and a modest percentage of non-English speakers, adding to its cultural diversity.
Population:
1,210
Density:
125 per sq mi
Median Age:
27.5
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
7.5%
Black:
0.2%
Others:
3.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fort Thompson, SD?
Living in Fort Thompson is highly affordable, with median home values around $70,000 and average rents at $600 per month. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making daily expenses like groceries and utilities budget-friendly for most residents.
Median House Value:
$70,000
Gross Rent:
$600
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$790
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$270
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
80.5
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
60.0
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
85.0
Health Care:
93.0
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Fort Thompson, SD a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Fort Thompson are higher than average, with a 1 in 213 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 49 chance of property crime. It's important for new residents to consider local safety measures and stay connected with community resources.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
470
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,050
Crime Index:
2,520
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 213
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 49
Weather
What is the weather like in Fort Thompson, SD year-round?
The town experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 6°F and warm summers reaching highs near 86°F. Residents can expect about 62% sunny days each year and a moderate annual rainfall of 21 inches, providing a balance of sunshine and precipitation.
Winter
Min:
6°F
Max:
29°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
86°F
Fall
Min:
35°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
21 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Local households earn a median income of $32,500, with a relatively high poverty rate at 46.5% and an unemployment rate of 14.3%. Most residents have a high school education or higher, and commutes are short, averaging just under 14 minutes.
Median Income:
$19,200
Household Income:
$32,500
Family Income:
$36,600
Per Capita Income:
$10,800
Income Male:
$23,000
Income Female:
$20,500
Poverty Rate:
46.5%
Non English Speakers:
9.2%
Rent:
$600
Unemployment Rate:
14.3%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
13.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
69.5%
Bachelors or More:
6.2%
Education
How are the schools in Fort Thompson, SD?
Fort Thompson is served by Crow Creek Tribal School, accommodating over 400 students with a student-teacher ratio of 16.5. While local higher education options are limited, Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell is within reasonable driving distance for those seeking a college degree.
Public Schools
Name:
Crow Creek Tribal School
Street:
100 Drifting Goose St
Phone:
(605) 245-2311
Students:
435
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Colleges
Name:
Dakota Wesleyan University
City:
Mitchell
State:
SD
Distance:
66 miles
Students:
950
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Fort Thompson is anchored by the nearby Sanford Chamberlain Medical Center, offering general and emergency services. About 82% of residents have health insurance, but physician availability is limited, reflecting the rural nature of the area.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sanford Chamberlain Medical Center
Address:
300 S Byron Blvd, Chamberlain, SD 57325
Phone:
(605) 734-4111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
0.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
82.0%
Health Care Index:
68.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fort Thompson, SD?
The housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $70,000 and a 52% owner-occupancy rate. Rental options are available with moderate vacancy, and the market has seen modest appreciation in recent years.
Median Home Price:
$70,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$600
Owner Occupied Rate:
52.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.1%
DMV Information
Residents manage driver licensing and vehicle services through the South Dakota Department of Public Safety in Pierre, with comprehensive resources available both in-person and online. The nearest DMV office is located at 118 W Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD.
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.