Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Vermillion, SD
Considering a move to Vermillion, SD? This vibrant college town of 11,695 offers affordable living with median home prices around $182,000 and average rents near $800. Crime rates are low, and commute times average just 11 minutes, making life easy and convenient. Vermillion boasts a youthful vibe, a strong educational presence with the University of South Dakota, and a friendly Midwestern climate with 63% sunny days each year. Explore below to see what makes Vermillion a great place to call home!
Demographics - Vermillion, SD
Demographics - Vermillion, SD
Vermillion is a youthful city of about 11,700 residents, with a median age of 24.4 years and a balanced gender ratio. The community is predominantly White, but also features a mix of other ethnicities and a modest percentage of non-English speakers. Its moderate population density offers a blend of small-town charm and vibrant college-town energy.
Population:
11,695
Density:
2,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
24.4
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
85.1%
Black:
2.2%
Asian:
2.7%
Others:
10.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Vermillion, SD?
Living in Vermillion is affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values around $182,000. Renters can expect average monthly rents of $800, while utilities and other essentials remain budget-friendly. South Dakota’s 0% state income tax further benefits residents’ finances.
Median House Value:
$182,000
Gross Rent:
$800
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,250
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.4
Grocery:
95.3
Housing:
69.8
Utilities:
88.7
Transportation:
89.4
Health Care:
94.5
Miscellaneous:
90.6
Crime
Is Vermillion, SD a safe place to live?
Vermillion enjoys relatively low crime rates, with the chance of experiencing violent crime at just 1 in 483 and property crime at 1 in 72. The city’s small size and community focus contribute to a safe, welcoming environment. These factors make Vermillion an appealing choice for families and students alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
207
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,395
Crime Index:
1,602
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 483
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 72
Weather
What is the weather like in Vermillion, SD year-round?
Vermillion experiences all four seasons, with cold winters that dip to 11°F and warm summers reaching up to 86°F. The city enjoys about 63% sunny days each year and receives an average annual rainfall of 27.5 inches. Residents benefit from a climate that supports outdoor activities much of the year.

Winter
Min:
11°F
Max:
31°F

Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
86°F

Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
27.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Residents of Vermillion benefit from a close-knit community with a median household income of $48,494 and a low unemployment rate of 2.6%. The area boasts high educational attainment, and most commutes are under 11 minutes. While the poverty rate is higher due to the student population, the overall atmosphere is welcoming and diverse.
Median Income:
$29,000
Household Income:
$48,494
Family Income:
$72,000
Per Capita Income:
$23,726
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$31,500
Poverty Rate:
26.4%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$800
Unemployment Rate:
2.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
10.6 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.2%
Bachelors or More:
42.1%
Education
How are the schools in Vermillion, SD?
Vermillion offers strong educational opportunities, featuring quality public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and the presence of the University of South Dakota, a major educational hub with over 9,400 students. Families have access to both public and private school options. The city’s strong focus on education attracts students and professionals alike.

Public Schools
Name:
Jolley Elementary School
Street:
224 S University St
Phone:
605-677-7015
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.1
Name:
Vermillion High School
Street:
1001 E Main St
Phone:
605-677-7035
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.4

Private Schools
Name:
St. Agnes School
Street:
909 E Lewis St
Phone:
605-624-5976
Students:
90

Colleges
Name:
University of South Dakota
City:
Vermillion
State:
SD
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
9,464
Healthcare
Vermillion is served by the Sanford Vermillion Medical Center, offering comprehensive general and emergency care. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 93% health insurance coverage, access to healthcare is reliable. The city’s healthcare index reflects quality and affordability for its size.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Sanford Vermillion Medical Center
Address:
20 S Plum St, Vermillion, SD 57069
Phone:
(605) 677-3700
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
78.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Vermillion, SD?
The local housing market is accessible, with median home prices at $182,000 and average two-bedroom rents of $800. About 47% of residents own their homes, and the low foreclosure rate suggests market stability. Modest home appreciation and a healthy rental vacancy rate make Vermillion attractive for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$182,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$800
Owner Occupied Rate:
46.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents handle driver and vehicle services through the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, headquartered in Pierre. The DMV offers accessible online resources and knowledgeable staff to assist with licensing and registration. For convenience, information and services can be found at the department’s official website.
State:
South Dakota
Department:
South Dakota Department of Public Safety
Address:
118 W Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD 57501
Phone:
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.