Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Oacoma, SD
Considering Oacoma, SD for your next move? With a close-knit population of 375, Oacoma offers affordable living (median home price of $163,000, average rent around $850) and scenic river views. Residents enjoy a low average commute of 14 minutes, a modest crime rate, and a slower pace of life. While educational attainment and incomes are below national averages, you'll benefit from quiet neighborhoods, easy access to healthcare in nearby Chamberlain, and over 60% sunny days each year—perfect for enjoying the outdoors.
Demographics - Oacoma, SD
Demographics - Oacoma, SD
Oacoma is a small, close-knit community with a population of 375 and a median age of 47, offering a slower-paced lifestyle. The town's residents are predominantly White, with a notable Native American presence, and about 5% speak a language other than English at home. The gender ratio leans slightly male, and the population density is low, providing plenty of open space.
Population:
375
Density:
80 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.2
Gender Ratio:
107 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
87.0%
Others:
3.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Oacoma, SD?
Living in Oacoma is affordable, with a median home value of $163,000 and average rent around $850, both well below national averages. The cost of living index is 85.2, reflecting lower expenses in housing and everyday needs, and residents benefit from no state income tax. Utilities and groceries are also reasonably priced, making the town attractive for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$163,000
Gross Rent:
$850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,290
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,040
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.2
Grocery:
93.4
Housing:
67.8
Utilities:
97.6
Transportation:
89.5
Health Care:
98.2
Miscellaneous:
92.5
Crime
Is Oacoma, SD a safe place to live?
Oacoma experiences a modest crime rate, with a 1 in 555 chance of encountering violent crime and a 1 in 70 chance of property crime. These figures suggest a generally safe environment, particularly for a rural town, though property crime is something to be mindful of. Residents appreciate the overall sense of security in the community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,430
Crime Index:
1,610
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 70
Weather
What is the weather like in Oacoma, SD year-round?
Oacoma enjoys four distinct seasons, featuring cold winters with lows around 8°F and warm summers reaching up to 88°F. The area receives about 20 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 61% sunny days, creating plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Residents experience a true Midwest climate, ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety.

Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
30°F

Spring
Min:
33°F
Max:
63°F

Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
88°F

Fall
Min:
35°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
20.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
The typical household in Oacoma earns about $54,500, with a median individual income of $28,000 and a poverty rate of 11.5%. Most neighbors have completed high school, and unemployment is low at 3.1%. The average commute is just over 14 minutes, reflecting the town's relaxed pace and convenience.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$54,500
Family Income:
$62,100
Per Capita Income:
$25,700
Income Male:
$33,500
Income Female:
$26,100
Poverty Rate:
11.5%
Non English Speakers:
5.0%
Rent:
$850
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
14.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
90.8%
Bachelors or More:
18.5%
Education
How are the schools in Oacoma, SD?
Oacoma families are served by nearby Chamberlain schools, including an elementary and high school with favorable student-teacher ratios around 13:1. While there are no private schools in town, higher education options like Dakota Wesleyan University are accessible within an hour's drive. The local schools provide a supportive learning environment for children.

Public Schools
Name:
Chamberlain Elementary School
Street:
1000 Sorensen Dr, Chamberlain, SD 57325
Phone:
605-234-4477
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1
Name:
Chamberlain High School
Street:
1000 Sorensen Dr, Chamberlain, SD 57325
Phone:
605-234-4467
Students:
330
Student Teacher Ratio:
12:1

Colleges
Name:
Dakota Wesleyan University
City:
Mitchell
State:
SD
Distance:
66 miles
Students:
950
Healthcare
Oacoma residents have access to healthcare services at Sanford Chamberlain Medical Center, just across the river in Chamberlain, which offers emergency care. The area maintains a good ratio of physicians (1.7 per 1,000 people), and over 91% of locals have health insurance. Healthcare is accessible and reliable for a town of its size.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Sanford Chamberlain Medical Center
Address:
300 S Byron Blvd, Chamberlain, SD 57325
Phone:
(605) 234-6584
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
69.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Oacoma, SD?
The housing market in Oacoma is attractive, with a median home price of $163,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 71%. Rental options are available with an average two-bedroom rent of $850, and the area has seen a healthy 6.1% home appreciation over the past year. Low foreclosure rates and modest new construction contribute to a stable market.
Median Home Price:
$163,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Driver licensing and vehicle registration for Oacoma residents are handled by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, located in Pierre. Services include license renewals, identification cards, and vehicle documentation, and more information can be found on the department's official website. Residents benefit from straightforward access to state DMV resources.
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.