Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Van Metre, SD
Considering a move to Van Metre, SD? This tiny rural community of about 20 people offers an affordable lifestyle, with median home prices near $105,000 and low average rents. Crime is minimal, commutes are easy at 24 minutes on average, and the cost of living is well below national averages. While school and healthcare options are limited locally, the area boasts wide open spaces and plenty of sunshine—perfect for those seeking peace, safety, and a close-knit rural environment.
Demographics - Van Metre, SD
Demographics - Van Metre, SD
Van Metre is a very small rural community with a population of just 20 residents and a median age of 50, reflecting a quiet, close-knit atmosphere. The area is predominantly White and has a slightly higher proportion of males, with a very low number of non-English speakers. Low population density means plenty of open space and a slower pace of life.
Population:
20
Density:
2 per sq mi
Median Age:
50
Gender Ratio:
110 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
1.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
97.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
2.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Van Metre, SD?
The cost of living in Van Metre is notably low, with a cost of living index of 89.5 and median home values around $105,000. Monthly expenses such as rent and utilities are affordable, and there is no state income tax, making it budget-friendly for families and retirees. Residents benefit from generally lower grocery, housing, and healthcare costs compared to national averages.
Median House Value:
$105,000
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.5
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
65.0
Utilities:
95.0
Transportation:
85.0
Health Care:
92.0
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Van Metre, SD a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Van Metre are minimal, with a violent crime rate of 90 per 100,000 and property crime at 750 per 100,000. The chances of experiencing violent crime are extremely low, making this a safe choice for those seeking peace of mind. Residents enjoy a strong sense of security in their daily lives.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
90
Property Crimes Per 100k:
750
Crime Index:
840
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,100
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 130
Weather
What is the weather like in Van Metre, SD year-round?
Van Metre experiences a classic Midwestern climate, with cold winters dipping as low as 7°F and warm summers reaching highs of 88°F. The area receives about 21 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 62% of the year, making it ideal for those who appreciate distinct seasons and ample sunny days.
Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
30°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
35°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
20.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Households in Van Metre have a median income of $38,000 and a low unemployment rate of 3.1%, with most residents commuting about 24 minutes to work. The community is well-educated, with over 90% having completed high school, and poverty rates remain moderate at 10.5%. Public transportation is not in use, reflecting the area’s rural character.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$54,000
Family Income:
$60,000
Per Capita Income:
$28,000
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$27,000
Poverty Rate:
10.5%
Non English Speakers:
1.0%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0%
Commute Time:
24.0 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
90.2%
Bachelors or More:
23.1%
Education
How are the schools in Van Metre, SD?
Educational opportunities in Van Metre are primarily served by Wessington Springs Elementary School, which offers small class sizes and a supportive learning environment. For higher education, Mitchell Technical College is located 43 miles away, providing vocational and technical programs. There are no private schools in the immediate area, supporting a close-knit public education community.
Public Schools
Name:
Wessington Springs Elementary School
Street:
302 Dakota Ave N, Wessington Springs, SD 57382
Phone:
605-539-1521
Students:
180
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.5
Colleges
Name:
Mitchell Technical College
City:
Mitchell
State:
SD
Distance:
43 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Local healthcare access centers around Avera Weskota Memorial Hospital in nearby Wessington Springs, offering general and emergency services. The area maintains a modest ratio of 1 physician per 1,000 residents and nearly 90% of people have health insurance coverage. Healthcare services are adequate for basic needs, with more specialized care available in larger towns.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Avera Weskota Memorial Hospital
Address:
605 W 9th St, Wessington Springs, SD 57382
Phone:
(605) 539-1201
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.8%
Health Care Index:
82.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Van Metre, SD?
Van Metre’s housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $105,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $650. The majority of residents own their homes, and the market sees slow but steady appreciation at 4.2% annually. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates suggest stability for prospective homebuyers.
Median Home Price:
$105,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
75.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.1%
DMV Information
Driver licensing and vehicle registration services are managed by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety in Pierre, accessible both in person and online. Residents can visit the central office at 118 W Capitol Ave or use the state website for convenient DMV services. South Dakota offers straightforward licensing procedures for new arrivals.
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.