Living in Pennington County, South Dakota

A complete guide of the county from schools to diversity

Should You Move to Pennington County?

Pennington County is home to 6,336 South Dakota residents. Over the past ten years, the county has seen a drop in growth of -1493.24%, ranking it #3,054 in the US and #65 in South Dakota for population growth.

Based on the counties residents and economy, Pennington County, SD is OK for retirees and great for families.

When considering schools and educational attainment, 94% of residents over 25 years of age graduated high school and 26.7% completed their bachelor’s degree or higher. The majority of students in Pennington County attend public school.

If diversity is essential, Pennington County received a D grade in diversity.

Firstandsold.com is an audience-supported site. We may earn an affiliate commission when you purchase through links or ads. Learn more

How Does Pennington County Rank?

C
Retirement
D
Diversity
C
Professionals
B
Raising a Family

Who Lives in Pennington County?

Discover more about the people who make up the county

Total Population

6,336

10-Year Change

-1493.24%

Households are Families

77%

Per Households

45

D
Diversity Grade
White alone
76.5%
Black or African American alone
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native alone
12%
Asian alone
1.4%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone
0%
Hispanic or Latino
5%
C
Retirement
B
Raising a Family
Under 5 years
7.5%
Under 18 years
23.8%
Over 65 years
24.1%

Start Organizing Your Move Today

Stay on top of tasks and avoid moving-day chaos. Download your moving checklist and box inventory list.

Housing in Pennington County

Buying or renting? Here’s more about real estate in the county.

Total Households

Own vs. Rent

Own 71.8%
Rent 28.2%

Connect with a local Pennington County REALTOR®

Buying or selling? We’ll help you connect with the right real estate agents in Pennington County or anywhere you need help.

Typical Age of Homes

1939 or earlier

Common Residence Type

single-family homes

Moving advice

Increase your odds of a quick sale, earning more money, or saving your rental deposit by . A study by HomeLight found home sellers who invest in cleaners earned $3,700 more.

Pennington County Schools

Explore the school district and schools

A+

A+

A+

A+

A

A

A

A

C-

B+

C

C

D+

B-

B

C

C+

A-

B

C-

C

B-

B-

NR

B
Student-Teacher Ratio

The Rapid City Area 51-4 School District in Pennington County, SD, is home to 12,847 students across 30 schools. Based on enrollment numbers, Rapid City Area School District 51-4 ranks #2 in South Dakota. Grades from Pre-K to 12 are offered in the district.

Rapid City Area 51-4 School District received a student-teacher ratio grade of B, averaging 15.13 students per teacher.

Learn more about the Rapid City Area 51-4 School District and explore its schools.

District Schools

30

Student Enrollments

12,847

Student-Teacher Ratio

15.13:1

How does Rapid City Area 51-4 School District compare?

Cost of Living in South Dakota

How Does South Dakota Compare?

21
in Cost of Living
25
in Minimum Wage
1
in Living Wage

South Dakota State Taxes

Don't forget!

Auto insurance premiums range from city to neighborhood. Receive personalized quotes from top insurers in 5 minutes or less through Insurify.

Renter’s insurance protects you, your guests, and your things. Lemonade offers renters insurance plans for as low as $5 per month.

Should you move to South Dakota?

South Dakota, the Mount Rushmore State, is a place of expansive prairies, rugged Badlands, and a rich Native American heritage. Known for its outdoor adventure opportunities, friendly communities, and a booming agricultural industry, South Dakota offers a calm, nature-focused lifestyle.

South Dakota’s economy is predominantly driven by agriculture, but sectors like healthcare and financial services are growing rapidly. Its largest city, Sioux Falls, is a hub of commerce and healthcare, while Rapid City serves as the gateway to Black Hills outdoor adventures.

Living in South Dakota provides a variety of experiences. From exploring the iconic Mount Rushmore and the stunning Badlands National Park to immersing in the vibrant cultural scene of its cities, South Dakota presents a unique blend of rural charm and urban convenience. Education is highly valued, with good public schools and notable universities like the University of South Dakota and South Dakota State University.

If you’re looking for a state that offers a relaxed lifestyle, a connection with nature, and a stable economy, South Dakota could be your perfect destination. Just be prepared for frigid winters and the occasional glimpse of bison crossing the road!

Need some help with your move?

Moving labor can be hired by the hour, helping you budget for the heavy stuff or your entire move.

Pennington County Economy

The industries, jobs, and economics of the zip code

Median Household Income

$66,000

US Average $74,580

How does Pennington County compare?

Unemployment rate

1.8%

Poverty rate

9.7%

Primary Occupations

Natural resources, construction, and maintenance occupations

Secondary Occupations

Office and administrative support occupations

Crime in Pennington County

Learn more about the school district for this zip code.

Crime Rating: Very High Crime

Total Crimes (2022)

9,435

Crime Rate

Per 100,000 residents

Violent crimes: 1812.8

Murder: 10.1

Violent crimes: 1812.8

Explore More Places

Check out more of Pennington County, or explore the surrounding area
South Dakota

Rapid City

South Dakota

Box Elder

Minnesota

Thief River Falls

South Dakota

Rapid Valley

South Dakota

Colonial Pine Hills

South Dakota

Green Valley

South Dakota

New Underwood

South Dakota

Ashland Heights

South Dakota

Wall

57701 Rapid City, SD

57702 Rapid City, SD

57703 Rapid City, SD

57725 Caputa, SD

57745 Hill City, SD

57751 Keystone, SD

57775 Quinn, SD

57790 Wall, SD

Review Pennington County, SD

Share your honest experiences. You can help a lot of amazing people along their journey by sharing yours.

⭐️ Testimonials with 5 completed ratings and written details will be included. Please keep negative experiences constructive, your story is important.

Leave a Reply

User Review
  • Overall Experience
    Sending
  • Family Friendly
    Sending
  • Restaurants
    Sending
  • Outdoor Activities
    Sending
  • Schools
    Sending
  • Diversity
    Sending
  • Walkability
    Sending
  • Weather
    Sending
  • Shopping & Amenities
    Sending
  • Commute/Traffic
    Sending

The Best, Worst, Wealthiest, and More...

45 trending topics that matter for today’s mover

Best Metros in America

Discover the top-rated Metros across America
Best Metros

Best Cities in America

The top-rated cities and towns across America
Best Places in America

Best Metros For Families

Explore the perfect Metros for Families
Best For Families

Continue Reading

Moving soon?

Receive valuable information and advice direct to your inbox.

Moving Checklist & Box Inventory Guides Included!

Join the community

Connect With a REALTOR®

Buying or selling a home? Access First&Sold’s network of experienced REALTORS®

Buy first, sell after.

Let us know the best way for a home advisor to reach you.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of UseԻ Privacy Policy

We're excited to hear from you.

Let us know how to reach you and one of our friendly home specialist will reach out to you shortly.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of UseԻ Privacy Policy

The next step is a sold sign

Let us know the best way for a home advisor to contact you.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of UseԻ Privacy Policy

Meet Nuri Caplinger

Questions on Las Vegas real estate? Ready to buy or sell? Meet your local Professional, Nuri.

Learn how your information is protected in the Terms of UseԻ Privacy Policy.

Speak to an advisor

Enter your information and a home advisor will reach out to you shortly.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of UseԻ Privacy Policy