Beadle County Public RecordsSouth Dakota

Beadle County, South Dakota, had approximately 10,300 registered voters as of 2022, with Republicans constituting about 54%, Democrats 19%, and Independents/others 27%. The county administers primary, general, and local elections, with 12 polling locations (including community centers and schools). In the 2020 presidential election, Donald Trump received 65% of the vote and Joe Biden 32%. The county auditor oversees election administration. Key local issues include agricultural policy and rural healthcare. Elections are generally managed efficiently, and voter turnout in general elections often exceeds 65%.

Beadle County, SD, maintains a moderate crime and safety profile. According to the latest FBI data, the county reported approximately 150 property crimes and 18 violent crimes in 2022, translating to rates of about 1,200 property and 145 violent crimes per 100,000 residents—lower than national averages. Law enforcement agencies actively encourage community crime reporting, utilizing online and tip line services to boost public safety. Overall, Beadle County is considered relatively safe, with declining crime trends and ongoing efforts to enhance security and community awareness.

As of 2023, Beadle County, SD has an estimated population of 18,440. The median age is about 39 years. Females comprise 50.3% and males 49.7%. The county’s racial/ethnic makeup is approximately 83% White, 4.5% Black or African American, 2.8% Native American, 3.1% Asian, and 8.1% Hispanic or Latino. Diversity has increased in recent years, notably with a growing immigrant population.

Beadle County, SD, is served primarily by the Huron School District, featuring one high school (Huron High School) and several elementary and middle schools, enrolling over 2,800 students. Its high school graduation rate is approximately 87%, with about 22% of adults holding at least a bachelor’s degree. School safety initiatives include SROs and security upgrades. The district offers diverse educational programs, including AP and technical education. Adult education opportunities are provided by local institutions such as Huron Community Campus. Recent standardized test scores are close to the state average, with math and reading proficiency rates near 50%.

As of 2023, Beadle County, SD, has an employment rate of approximately 65%. Key industries include manufacturing (19%), health care and social assistance (17%), retail trade (13%), and agriculture (9%). The leading occupations are production (15%), office and administrative support (14%), and sales (11%). Around 85% of employees commute by car, with an average commute time of 12 minutes. Most residents work locally in Huron, the county seat, while others commute to neighboring counties for employment.

Beadle County, SD has a homeownership rate of about 68%, with median home values around $166,000 and median gross rents near $765 per month. The housing market shows stable values with modest annual increases. Housing types are primarily single-family homes, with some apartments and mobile homes. Neighborhoods such as Huron, the county seat, offer a mix of older and newer developments. Property tax rates average approximately 1.25% of assessed value, making taxes relatively affordable. Overall, Beadle County provides accessible housing options in a stable real estate market.