What Should I Know Before Moving to Watertown?

Check the cost of living, housing, traffic, and public transit in Watertown. Each neighborhood has its own vibe, so pick one that fits your lifestyle. Be prepared for Watertown climate and weather.

How Much Do Movers Charge in Watertown?

Moving within Watertown usually costs between $300 and $1,500. Moving long distances can cost anywhere from $2,000 to more than $5,000. The price may go up if you need extra services like packing or storage. Fill out Movers.com quote form to compare the quotes easily.

What’s the Best Time of the Year to Move to Watertown?

While moves happen year-round, spring and fall are often more comfortable in Watertown. Booking outside of peak summer or winter seasons can save money and make scheduling easier.

Do Moving Companies in Watertown Offer Packing and Unpacking Services?

Yes! Majority of moving companies in Watertown offer full service moving, which means they will help you pack, unpack, and arrange your belongings.

When You Move from Watertown, How Far in Advance Should I Schedule My Move?

You should plan your move from Watertown at least 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially if you're moving during the busy season (summer). You can get better availability, prices, and flexibility with your moving date if you book early. If you book at the last minute, you may have fewer choices or pay more.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Watertown, SD

Considering a move to Watertown, SD? With a welcoming population of 22,655, Watertown offers affordable living—median home prices average $247,500 and typical rents around $910. Residents enjoy short 13-minute commutes, a low unemployment rate, and access to quality healthcare and schools. The city boasts 60% sunny days, a relaxed pace, and a strong sense of community, making it ideal for families or anyone seeking a comfortable Midwest lifestyle.

Demographics - Watertown, SD

Watertown, SD is home to 22,655 residents, with a median age of 38 and a balanced gender ratio. The city is predominantly White (over 92%), with a small but growing diversity and nearly 5% of the population speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density contributes to a friendly, small-city atmosphere.

Population:

22,655

Density:

1,230 per sq mi

Median Age:

38.0

Gender Ratio:

98 males per 100 females

Non-English Speakers Percentage:

4.8%

Ethnic Composition

White:

92.1%

Black:

0.6%

Asian:

0.6%

Others:

6.7%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Watertown, SD?

Watertown offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values at $247,500 and average rents around $910. The cost of living index is well below the national average at 84.5, and residents benefit from South Dakota's 0% state income tax. Utilities, groceries, and healthcare are also reasonably priced, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious movers.

Median House Value:

$247,500

Gross Rent:

$910

Monthly Electricity Charges:

$110

Auto Insurance:

$1,110

House Owner Cost With Mortgage:

$1,435

House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:

$435

State Taxes:

Low:

High:

Cost Of Living Index:

84.5

Grocery:

96.1

Housing:

76.3

Utilities:

93.8

Transportation:

89.4

Health Care:

97.2

Miscellaneous:

90.3

Crime

Is Watertown, SD a safe place to live?

Crime rates in Watertown are moderate for a city of its size, with a chance of violent crime at 1 in 256 and property crime at 1 in 49. While these rates are something to be aware of, Watertown maintains a generally safe environment with active community involvement and responsive local law enforcement.

Violent Crimes Per 100k:

390

Property Crimes Per 100k:

2,040

Crime Index:

2,430

Chance Of Violent Crime:

1 in 256

Chance Of Property Crime:

1 in 49

Weather

What is the weather like in Watertown, SD year-round?

Watertown experiences classic Midwest weather, featuring cold winters with lows around 4°F and warm summers reaching highs of 83°F. The city enjoys 60% sunny days annually and receives about 23.6 inches of rainfall, offering residents four distinct seasons and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.

Winter

Min:

4°F

Max:

25°F

Spring

Min:

33°F

Max:

62°F

Summer

Min:

58°F

Max:

83°F

Fall

Min:

35°F

Max:

62°F

Average Rainfall Inches:

23.6 inches

Sunny Days Percentage:

60%

Neighbors

Residents in Watertown benefit from a median household income of $63,800 and a low unemployment rate of 2.7%. The community is well-educated, with almost 94% of adults holding at least a high school diploma, and most commutes are under 15 minutes, supporting a comfortable and convenient lifestyle.

Median Income:

$38,900

Household Income:

$63,800

Family Income:

$81,900

Per Capita Income:

$33,200

Income Male:

$45,100

Income Female:

$38,200

Poverty Rate:

10.1%

Non English Speakers:

4.8%

Rent:

$910

Unemployment Rate:

2.7%

Public Transport Usage:

0.5%

Commute Time:

13.4 minutes

Education

High School or Higher:

93.8%

Bachelors or More:

24.3%

Education

How are the schools in Watertown, SD?

Watertown features a range of educational opportunities, including well-rated public schools like Watertown High School and access to higher education at Lake Area Technical College. Smaller class sizes and a community focus on education contribute to strong student outcomes and family appeal.

Public Schools

Name:

Watertown High School

Street:

200 9th St NE

Phone:

605-882-6316

Students:

1,200

Student Teacher Ratio:

16.3

Name:

McKinley Elementary School

Street:

1212 14th St NE

Phone:

605-882-6340

Students:

410

Student Teacher Ratio:

14.7

Private Schools

Name:

Great Plains Lutheran High School

Street:

1200 Luther Ln NE

Phone:

605-886-0672

Students:

120

Colleges

Name:

Lake Area Technical College

City:

Watertown

State:

Distance:

0 miles

Students:

2,200

Healthcare

Watertown provides quality healthcare services, anchored by the Prairie Lakes Healthcare System and a strong network of local physicians. With 92.5% of residents covered by health insurance and a healthcare index of 77.0, the city ensures accessible medical care for families and individuals alike.

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

Physicians Per 1000:

2.2

Health Insurance Coverage:

92.5%

Health Care Index:

77.0

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Watertown, SD?

Homeownership is strong in Watertown, where nearly 66% of residents own their homes and the median price is $247,500. The housing market is stable, with a 5.2% appreciation rate over the past year and a low foreclosure rate, making it a solid option for buyers and renters alike.

Median Home Price:

$247,500

Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:

$910

Owner Occupied Rate:

65.9%

Rental Vacancy Rate:

5.8%

Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):

5.2%

New Construction Rate:

1.7%

Foreclosure Rate:

0.4%

DMV Information

Residents of Watertown are served by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, with main offices in Pierre and comprehensive services available online. The DMV provides essential licensing, registration, and vehicle services efficiently for all South Dakota drivers.

State:

South Dakota

Department:

South Dakota Department of Public Safety

Address:

118 W Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD 57501

Phone:

605-773-6883

Website:

https://dps.sd.gov

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.