Aurora County

Aurora County, South Dakota, has an estimated population of around 2,751 people as of the latest census. The demographic breakdown includes approximately 97.1% White, 1.5% Native American, 0.4% Asian, and 1.0% Hispanic or Latino of any race. There are about 1,194 households with an average household size of 2.27 and a family size of 2.86. The median age is 45.8 years, with 21.8% under 18, 17.8% 65 and older, and a fairly balanced gender ratio. The median household income is around $44,583, and about 12.4% of the population lives below the poverty line.

As of 2021, Aurora County, South Dakota, had a median home value of approximately $92,400. The homeownership rate was around 76.1%. Median rent in the county was about $578 per month. Housing units numbered around 1,110, with a vacancy rate of roughly 14%. The average household size was estimated to be 2.29 persons. Data may have changed slightly since then, so consult recent statistics for the most current information.

Aurora County, South Dakota, conducts elections for various local, state, and federal offices. The county has approximately 2,700 residents. Recent elections include positions like County Commissioner, Sheriff, and school board members. Voter turnout typically ranges from 60-75% in general elections.

In the 2020 election:

• Presidential: Donald Trump (R) received 77.6%, Joe Biden (D) received 20.8%
• U.S. Senate: Mike Rounds (R) received 75.9%, Dan Ahlers (D) received 21.4%
• U.S. House: Dusty Johnson (R) received 81.0%, Randy Luallin (L) received 19.0%

Local elections feature candidates for sheriff, county commission, and other local offices, with candidates often including both party-affiliated and independent individuals. Election dates, candidate lists, and results are managed by the Aurora County Auditor’s Office. For up-to-date information, visit the South Dakota Secretary of State’s website or the Aurora County website.

Aurora County, SD, has a relatively modest educational attainment compared to state and national averages. According to U.S. Census data, about 91.6% of Aurora County residents aged 25 and older have a high school diploma, which is slightly higher than the national average of approximately 88%. However, only about 16.1% have a bachelor's degree or higher, which is lower than the national average of around 33% and also below the South Dakota state average of 28.8%. These figures indicate that while high school completion rates are solid, the county lags behind in higher education achievements.

As of the latest available data, Aurora County, SD, has an employment rate that closely mirrors rural trends. Approximately 1,200 residents are in the labor force, with an unemployment rate around 2.5%, lower than the national average (3.8%) and state average (2.9%).

Top industries in Aurora County include:

1. Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting - This sector dominates, reflecting the county's rural nature.
2. Manufacturing - Significant, but smaller in comparison to agriculture.
3. Retail Trade - Provides local jobs, crucial for daily community needs.
4. Health Care and Social Assistance - Important for local wellbeing.

Nationally, the top industries are more diversified and tech-driven, like Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services, Health Care, and Social Assistance, and Retail Trade. South Dakota, broader in scope, aligns closely with Aurora County but with slight shifts towards manufacturing and tourism.

Aurora’s economy reflects its rural setting, relying heavily on agriculture, comparatively steadier and less diversified.

As of the latest data, the average household income in Aurora County, South Dakota is approximately $58,000. Comparatively, the national average household income is about $68,700, while the South Dakota state average stands around $63,000. This indicates that Aurora County's average income is below both the national and state averages.

Below is a summary table for quick reference:

These figures help illustrate the economic standing of Aurora County relative to broader benchmarks.

As of the latest available data, Aurora County, SD, experiences relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. Below is a summary table of various types of crimes reported in the county.

Aurora County's overall crime rate is significantly lower than the national average, making it a relatively safe place for residents and visitors.