Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lake Brandt, SD
Considering a move to Lake Brandt, SD? This small, friendly community of 123 offers affordable living, with median home prices at $132,000 and average rents around $730. Enjoy quiet, safe streets — violent crime rates are much lower than the national average — and quick commutes of about 19 minutes. The area boasts a strong sense of community, good local schools, and a sunny climate with 62% sunny days per year. With low unemployment and a relaxed rural pace, Lake Brandt is perfect for those seeking peace, affordability, and outdoor charm.
Demographics - Lake Brandt, SD
Demographics - Lake Brandt, SD
Lake Brandt is a close-knit, rural community with a population of just 123, featuring a median age of 38.2 and a predominantly White demographic. The area’s moderate population density and balanced gender ratio offer a friendly, small-town environment ideal for families and those seeking a slower pace. A very small percentage of residents speak a language other than English at home, highlighting the town’s cultural cohesion.
Population:
123
Density:
250 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.2
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.5%
Black:
0.0%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
3.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lake Brandt, SD?
Living in Lake Brandt is highly affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average at 86.5. The median home value is $132,000, monthly rents average $730, and state income taxes are nonexistent, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious households. Residents also benefit from competitive rates for utilities and transportation, supporting a comfortable lifestyle without high expenses.
Median House Value:
$132,000
Gross Rent:
$730
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,010
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.5
Grocery:
93.1
Housing:
72.0
Utilities:
94.5
Transportation:
82.3
Health Care:
95.4
Miscellaneous:
90.2
Crime
Is Lake Brandt, SD a safe place to live?
Lake Brandt boasts low crime rates compared to national figures, providing residents with a safe and peaceful environment. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is just 1 in 893, and property crime is also infrequent. This sense of security is one of the community’s key attractions for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
112
Property Crimes Per 100k:
940
Crime Index:
1,052
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 893
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 106
Weather
What is the weather like in Lake Brandt, SD year-round?
Residents of Lake Brandt enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 84°F and chilly winters dipping to 4°F. The town sees about 62% sunny days throughout the year and receives just under 25 inches of rainfall annually, making it well-suited for those who appreciate outdoor activities and varied weather. Spring and fall offer mild, pleasant conditions, rounding out the appealing local climate.

Winter
Min:
4°F
Max:
26°F

Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
84°F

Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
24.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Lake Brandt’s neighbors typically enjoy a median household income of $64,200 and a low unemployment rate of 2.6%. The area is marked by high educational attainment, with nearly 94% holding a high school diploma or higher, and average commute times are short at about 19 minutes. The community maintains a low poverty rate, creating a stable and supportive atmosphere.
Median Income:
$37,000
Household Income:
$64,200
Family Income:
$75,900
Per Capita Income:
$29,400
Income Male:
$41,300
Income Female:
$32,200
Poverty Rate:
8.3%
Non English Speakers:
2.1%
Rent:
$730
Unemployment Rate:
2.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
19.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.8%
Bachelors or More:
29.1%
Education
How are the schools in Lake Brandt, SD?
Families in Lake Brandt benefit from local schools like Clear Lake Elementary, which offers small class sizes and personalized attention with a student-teacher ratio of about 12:1. Higher education opportunities are close by, with South Dakota State University just 26 miles away, making advanced learning accessible. The community’s focus on education supports students from early grades through college.

Public Schools
Name:
Clear Lake Elementary School
Street:
410 5th St W, Clear Lake
Phone:
605-874-2161
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.8

Colleges
Name:
South Dakota State University
City:
Brookings
State:
SD
Distance:
26 miles
Students:
11,400
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Lake Brandt is convenient, with the Sanford Clear Lake Medical Center providing critical care and emergency services nearby. Most residents (over 91%) have health insurance, and there are 1.2 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring adequate medical support for the community. The area’s healthcare index reflects reliable local services for families and seniors alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Sanford Clear Lake Medical Center
Address:
701 3rd Ave S, Clear Lake, SD 57226
Phone:
(605) 874-2141
Type:
Critical Access Hospital
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
72.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lake Brandt, SD?
Lake Brandt’s housing market is very accessible, featuring a median home price of $132,000 and high homeownership rates at nearly 84%. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $730 and a moderate vacancy rate, while home values have shown steady appreciation. The area’s stable real estate environment provides attractive opportunities for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$132,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$730
Owner Occupied Rate:
83.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Driver licensing and vehicle services for Lake Brandt residents are managed by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, with convenient resources available online and at the state office in Pierre. Support is accessible via phone or through the department’s comprehensive website, streamlining licensing and registration processes. This ensures residents can handle DMV needs efficiently and with ease.
State:
South Dakota
Department:
South Dakota Department of Public Safety - Driver Licensing Program
Address:
118 West 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.