Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Red Iron Lake, SD
Considering a move to Red Iron Lake, SD? This tranquil community of just 45 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $165,000 and typical rents near $820. Enjoy low crime rates, short commutes averaging 20 minutes, and easy access to nearby schools and healthcare in the region. With 62% sunny days, open spaces, and a peaceful lake setting, Red Iron Lake is ideal for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle and the beauty of South Dakota’s outdoors.
Demographics - Red Iron Lake, SD
Demographics - Red Iron Lake, SD
Red Iron Lake is a small, close-knit community with just 45 residents and a low population density of 10 people per square mile. The median age of 48 suggests a mature population, primarily White, with a modest proportion of non-English speakers. This rural setting offers a peaceful lifestyle ideal for those seeking tranquility and space.
Population:
45
Density:
10 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.2
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
85.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
14.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Red Iron Lake, SD?
Living in Red Iron Lake is affordable, with a median home value of $165,000 and average rents around $820. The cost of living index stands at 87, noticeably lower than the national average, and South Dakota’s zero state income tax adds to the financial appeal. Residents benefit from reasonable utility and insurance costs, making it a budget-friendly choice for households.
Median House Value:
$165,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$340
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.0
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
70.5
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
93.0
Health Care:
96.5
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Red Iron Lake, SD a safe place to live?
Red Iron Lake experiences low crime rates, with the chance of violent crime at 1 in 333 and property crime at 1 in 95. These rates reflect the safety and security often found in small rural communities. Residents can enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive location for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
300
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,350
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 333
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Red Iron Lake, SD year-round?
Red Iron Lake features distinct seasons, with cold winters dipping to 5°F, warm summers peaking at 82°F, and an annual rainfall of about 22.5 inches. The area enjoys 62% sunny days, offering plenty of opportunities to experience the outdoors. Residents can expect a classic Midwestern climate with beautiful changes throughout the year.

Winter
Min:
5°F
Max:
26°F

Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
61°F

Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
82°F

Fall
Min:
35°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
22.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Local households in Red Iron Lake typically earn around $61,000, and the area enjoys a low unemployment rate of 3%. The community is well-educated, with nearly 92% holding a high school diploma or higher. Commutes are short, and public transportation use is minimal, reflecting the rural, self-reliant character of the area.
Median Income:
$35,000
Household Income:
$61,000
Family Income:
$70,500
Per Capita Income:
$28,500
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$31,000
Poverty Rate:
9.0%
Non English Speakers:
5.1%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
3.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
20.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.8%
Bachelors or More:
21.4%
Education
How are the schools in Red Iron Lake, SD?
Families in Red Iron Lake benefit from access to local public schools like Waubay and Webster Area School Districts, both offering small class sizes and personalized instruction. Higher education is also within reach, with Lake Area Technical College located just 25 miles away. The area’s educational resources support learners from early grades through technical training and beyond.

Public Schools
Name:
Waubay School District
Street:
202 W School Rd
Phone:
605-947-4529
Students:
220
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.2
Name:
Webster Area School District
Street:
102 E 9th Ave
Phone:
605-345-3548
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.3

Colleges
Name:
Lake Area Technical College
City:
Watertown
State:
SD
Distance:
25 miles
Students:
2,200
Healthcare
Residents of Red Iron Lake have access to quality healthcare services, including nearby major hospitals like Prairie Lakes Healthcare System and Sanford Webster Medical Center. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 90% health insurance coverage, the area provides solid medical support for its small population. Emergency and general care are readily available within a short drive.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Prairie Lakes Healthcare System
Address:
401 9th Ave NW, Watertown, SD 57201
Phone:
(605) 882-7000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Sanford Webster Medical Center
Address:
1401 W 7th St, Webster, SD 57274
Phone:
(605) 345-3336
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.1%
Health Care Index:
76.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Red Iron Lake, SD?
The housing market in Red Iron Lake is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $165,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 79%. Average rent for a two-bedroom home is about $820, and the area features low foreclosure and vacancy rates. Home appreciation remains steady, making it an appealing spot for buyers seeking long-term value.
Median Home Price:
$165,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
79.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Red Iron Lake residents are served by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety for all driver licensing and vehicle registration needs. The nearest main office is located in Pierre, with full services and resources available online. This ensures convenient access to essential DMV services for the community.
State:
South Dakota
Department:
South Dakota Department of Public Safety - Driver Licensing
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.