Hughes County

As of the 2020 Census, Hughes County, South Dakota, had a population of approximately 17,765. The racial composition was about 84.3% White, 9.5% Native American, 0.5% African American, 0.4% Asian, and 2.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals comprised around 2.2% of the population. The county seat, Pierre, is also the state capital. Hughes County's median household income was around $65,800, and the per capita income was approximately $36,700. The population distribution included 22.1% under 18, 57.4% aged 18-64, and 20.5% aged 65 or older.

As of the latest data, Hughes County, SD, has a median home value of approximately $187,000. The homeownership rate is around 67.5%, with a median gross rent of $780 per month. The housing market saw a 5.4% increase in home values over the past year. The county has a mixed urban-rural population, with a density of 13 people per square mile. Construction of new homes remains steady, contributing to a balanced supply and demand in the housing sector. The vacancy rate is around 7.6%, indicating a moderately tight housing market.

As of the most recent elections, Hughes County, SD, held various local and state-level elections. Here are some key details and numbers:

County Commission Seats:

• Candidates: Bob Miller (incumbent), Bill Abernathy, Ralph Sandoval.
• Seats up for election: 2

Voter Turnout:

• Registered Voters: Approximately 11,000
• Turnout Percentage: Around 65%

Key State-Level Elections:

• State Senate District 24:
  • Candidates: Mary Duvall (incumbent, Republican), Steve Santema (Democrat).
• State House District 24:
  • Candidates: Mike Weisgram (incumbent, Republican), Will Mortenson (incumbent, Republican), Jim Sheehan (Democrat), Jennifer Keintz (Democrat).

Hughes County is predominantly Republican, with most state and local offices held by GOP members in recent years. Election results often reflect this political leaning. For the most up-to-date and detailed information, refer to Hughes County's official website or the South Dakota Secretary of State’s office.

As of the latest available data, Hughes County, SD, shows the following educational attainment levels:

• High school graduation rate: approximately 94.1%
• Bachelor's degree or higher: around 32.4%

These statistics can be compared to national and state averages. Nationally, the high school graduation rate stands at roughly 88.6%, while those holding a bachelor's degree or higher are about 32.1%. For South Dakota, the high school graduation rate is approximately 91.0%, and those with a bachelor's degree or higher are around 28.5%.

Thus, Hughes County fares well in educational attainment compared to both the national and state averages. It surpasses the national average for high school graduates and aligns closely with the national average for higher education degrees. Additionally, it performs better than the state average in both categories.

As of the latest data, Hughes County, SD, reports an employment rate with notable participation in the public administration sector, largely due to its status as the state capital (Pierre). Specific employment figures include:

• Employment: Around 9,500 individuals.
• Unemployment Rate: Approximately 3.1% (close to the state average of 3.0%, below the national average of 3.6%).

Top Industries:

1. Public Administration (dominant due to the presence of state government offices).
2. Healthcare and Social Assistance.
3. Educational Services.
4. Retail Trade.
5. Accommodation and Food Services.

Comparison:

• National Average: More diversified with higher focus on tech and manufacturing.
• State Average: Similar focus on government and healthcare, but Hughes County has a higher public administration employment due to Pierre being the state capital.

Hughes County's employment landscape is characterized by a significant influence of government jobs, differing from broader national trends.

Hughes County, SD, exhibits unique income features when compared with state and national averages. As of the most recent data, the median household income in Hughes County stands at approximately $62,000. This figure showcases a slight advantage over the median household income of South Dakota, which is around $59,000. Comparatively, the national median household income is approximately $68,700. Hence, while Hughes County performs better relative to the state average, it falls somewhat short of the nationwide median.

Hughes County's income levels reflect economic stability, though there remains room to grow in meeting or surpassing the national median.

As of the latest available data, Hughes County, SD, has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. The following statistics are based on recent crime data:

Violent crimes include offenses like assault and robbery, while property crimes cover burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft. The figures reflect a snapshot and can fluctuate annually. Hughes County's crime rates for both violent and property crimes are below state and national averages, indicating it is a relatively safe area.