Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Yankton, SD
Considering Yankton, SD for your next move? This friendly city of 15,411 boasts affordable living with median home prices around $212,000 and average rents near $900. Residents enjoy short commutes averaging just 13 minutes, low violent crime rates (182 per 100k), and plentiful sunny days (61% annually). With strong public schools, a local university, and easy access to healthcare, Yankton offers a relaxed lifestyle and welcoming community perfect for families and professionals seeking value and quality of life.
Demographics - Yankton, SD
Demographics - Yankton, SD
Yankton is home to about 15,400 residents, with a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 40.7, reflecting a mature and stable community. The population is predominantly White (92.3%), and around 6% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The city's moderate population density offers a comfortable blend of urban amenities and small-town charm.
Population:
15,411
Density:
1,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
40.7
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.3%
Black:
1.4%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
5.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Yankton, SD?
Yankton offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values around $212,000 and average rents close to $900. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, and residents benefit from South Dakota’s 0% state income tax. Essential expenses like utilities and groceries are also lower than many U.S. cities, making it attractive for families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$212,000
Gross Rent:
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$135
Auto Insurance:
$1,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,250
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.5
Grocery:
97.4
Housing:
72.8
Utilities:
91.6
Transportation:
82.1
Health Care:
97.2
Miscellaneous:
88.5
Crime
Is Yankton, SD a safe place to live?
Yankton experiences low crime rates compared to national figures, with a violent crime rate of 182 per 100,000 and a 1 in 550 chance of being involved in a violent incident. Property crimes occur more frequently but still remain manageable, offering residents peace of mind. The community's safety is a key draw for those seeking a secure environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
182
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,780
Crime Index:
1,962
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 550
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 56
Weather
What is the weather like in Yankton, SD year-round?
Yankton enjoys four distinct seasons, with warm summers averaging highs near 87°F and cold winters dipping to around 9°F. The area receives about 27.6 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 61% sunny days, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant, making for a comfortable year-round climate.
Winter
Min:
9°F
Max:
31°F
Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
65°F
Summer
Min:
61°F
Max:
87°F
Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
27.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Residents of Yankton benefit from a median household income of nearly $60,000, with low unemployment and short average commutes of just over 13 minutes. The poverty rate is moderate at 11.2%, and nearly 94% of adults have at least a high school education. The community is friendly and close-knit, with affordable rents and a relaxed pace of life.
Median Income:
$37,800
Household Income:
$59,800
Family Income:
$74,200
Per Capita Income:
$31,600
Income Male:
$43,000
Income Female:
$37,000
Poverty Rate:
11.2%
Non English Speakers:
6.2%
Rent:
$900
Unemployment Rate:
3.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
13.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.8%
Bachelors or More:
26.3%
Education
How are the schools in Yankton, SD?
Yankton offers strong educational options with public schools like Yankton High School and Stewart Elementary, supported by reasonable student-teacher ratios. Private school and higher education opportunities are available locally, including Mount Marty University, as well as the nearby University of South Dakota. The city’s educational environment is well-suited for families and lifelong learners.
Public Schools
Name:
Yankton High School
Street:
1801 Summit St
Phone:
605-665-2073
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Stewart Elementary School
Street:
208 W 21st St
Phone:
605-665-5554
Students:
380
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Private Schools
Name:
Sacred Heart School
Street:
509 Capital St
Phone:
605-665-1808
Students:
270
Colleges
Name:
Mount Marty University
City:
Yankton
State:
SD
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,200
Name:
University of South Dakota
City:
Vermillion
State:
SD
Distance:
23 miles
Students:
9,500
Healthcare
Yankton provides quality healthcare with a major hospital, Avera Sacred Heart, and a strong network of local physicians (2.1 per 1,000 residents). Over 92% of residents have health insurance coverage, ensuring broad access to medical services. The city’s healthcare index reflects reliable and accessible medical care for individuals and families.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Avera Sacred Heart Hospital
Address:
501 Summit St, Yankton, SD 57078
Phone:
(605) 668-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.6%
Health Care Index:
72.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Yankton, SD?
Yankton’s housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $212,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $900. Nearly 70% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area sees modest annual home appreciation of 4.4%. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates make it a favorable market for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$212,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
69.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Driver licensing and vehicle services in Yankton are managed by the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, conveniently located at 3113 Spruce St. Residents can access licensing, renewals, and other motor vehicle services locally or online. The office is easily reachable for all registration and documentation needs.
State:
South Dakota
Department:
South Dakota Department of Public Safety - Driver Licensing
Address:
3113 Spruce St, Suite 125, Yankton, SD 57078
Phone:
1-605-668-3071
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.