Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lead, SD
Considering a move to Lead, SD? With a welcoming population of just under 3,000, Lead offers small-town living with affordable home prices around $155,000 and average rents near $800. Residents enjoy a low cost of living, quick 13-minute commutes, and low crime rates compared to national averages. The area boasts 62% sunny days, a scenic Black Hills setting, and highly-rated local schools, making it a great choice for those seeking an affordable and peaceful lifestyle.
Demographics - Lead, SD
Lead, SD, is a close-knit community of approximately 2,870 residents, predominantly White, with a median age of 43 and a population density of 1,100 people per square mile. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a small but present diversity, with about 4% speaking a language other than English at home. Its mature population and friendly atmosphere make it ideal for families and retirees seeking a slower-paced lifestyle.
Population:
2,870
Density:
1,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
43.1
Gender Ratio:
104 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.8%
Others:
1.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lead, SD?
Living in Lead is notably affordable, with a median house value of $155,000 and average rent at $800, both well below national averages. The overall cost of living index is 84, reflecting lower costs for housing, transportation, and utilities. Zero percent state income tax further enhances affordability, making Lead an attractive option for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$155,000
Gross Rent:
$800
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.0
Grocery:
95.7
Housing:
66.2
Utilities:
91.1
Transportation:
85.2
Health Care:
99.3
Miscellaneous:
91.2
Crime
Is Lead, SD a safe place to live?
Lead experiences low crime rates, with a violent crime rate of just 172 per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 581 chance of being affected by violent crime. Property crime is also relatively modest, supporting a safe and secure environment for families and individuals. This sense of safety is a key draw for those considering relocating to the area.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
172
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,230
Crime Index:
1,402
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 581
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 81
Weather
What is the weather like in Lead, SD year-round?
Lead enjoys four distinct seasons, with mild summers averaging highs around 77°F and chilly winters with lows near 11°F. The city receives approximately 28 inches of annual rainfall and 62% of days are sunny, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation in the scenic Black Hills. Residents appreciate the balance of crisp winters and comfortable summers.
Winter
Min:
11°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
77°F
Fall
Min:
30°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
27.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $53,000, with a low unemployment rate of 3.1% and a 13.2% poverty rate. Most residents have at least a high school education, and commute times average just over 13 minutes, reflecting the small-town convenience. Rent remains affordable and public transportation usage is minimal, underscoring Lead’s car-friendly and neighborly vibe.
Median Income:
$28,800
Household Income:
$53,000
Family Income:
$62,000
Per Capita Income:
$26,000
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
4.1%
Rent:
$800
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
13.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.3%
Bachelors or More:
23.1%
Education
How are the schools in Lead, SD?
Lead provides strong educational opportunities through local public schools, including Lead-Deadwood Elementary and High School, both with favorable student-teacher ratios around 13:1. Higher education is accessible at Black Hills State University, just 15 miles away, making Lead suitable for families valuing quality education and nearby college options.
Public Schools
Name:
Lead-Deadwood Elementary School
Street:
716 Main St, Deadwood, SD 57732
Phone:
605-717-3890
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Lead-Deadwood High School
Street:
320 S Main St, Lead, SD 57754
Phone:
605-717-3899
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.8
Colleges
Name:
Black Hills State University
City:
Spearfish
State:
SD
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
4,100
Healthcare
Healthcare in Lead is anchored by Monument Health Lead-Deadwood Hospital, offering general and emergency services nearby. The city has good medical coverage with 2 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% of people insured. Local healthcare is accessible and reliable, supporting both families and seniors.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Monument Health Lead-Deadwood Hospital
Address:
61 Charles St, Deadwood, SD 57732
Phone:
(605) 717-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.6%
Health Care Index:
72.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lead, SD?
Lead’s housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $155,000 and average two-bedroom rent at $800. Over 70% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area is experiencing healthy appreciation rates of over 8% annually. The market offers stability and opportunities for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$155,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$800
Owner Occupied Rate:
70.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
8.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents of Lead are served by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety for all driver licensing needs, located in nearby Rapid City. The process is streamlined and accessible, with helpful resources available both in person and online. Local drivers can easily manage licensing and vehicle registration.
State:
South Dakota
Department:
South Dakota Department of Public Safety – Driver Licensing
Address:
130 Kansas City St, Rapid City, SD 57701
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.