Codington County Public RecordsSouth Dakota

Codington County, SD, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2023, the county reported approximately 310 total crimes, including 22 violent offenses (such as assault and robbery) and 288 property crimes. The crime rate stands at about 17.7 incidents per 1,000 residents. Local law enforcement emphasizes community policing and encourages public crime reporting, contributing to high clearance rates. Overall, Codington County is considered safe, with focused efforts on crime prevention and prompt response to incidents, helping maintain a secure environment for residents.

Codington County, SD, is served primarily by the Watertown School District, which includes Watertown High School. The county has around 13 public schools, with an average graduation rate of 93%. Adults with at least a high school diploma comprise about 93.5% of residents, and those with a bachelor’s degree or higher make up 26.6%. School safety is prioritized, with low reported incidents. Educational programs include AP courses, CTE, and extracurriculars. The average public school rating is 7/10, reflecting strong academic performance and supportive learning environments.

As of 2022, Codington County, SD, has an employment rate of approximately 66%. Top industries include manufacturing (18.9%), health care/social assistance (16.3%), and retail trade (11.8%). Major occupation types are production (12.1%), office/administrative support (12.4%), and management (9.2%). The average commute time is about 13.7 minutes, with 89% driving alone to work. Over 80% of residents work within the county, while the city of Watertown serves as the primary employment hub.

Codington County, SD, has a homeownership rate of about 69%, with a median home value around $204,000 in 2023. Median gross rent is approximately $870 per month. Recent years have seen home values increase by about 5% annually. Single-family homes dominate, though there are apartments and townhomes, especially in Watertown neighborhoods like Westside and Eastwood. Property tax rates average 1.3%, amounting to roughly $2,650 per year on a median-valued home. The area features a mix of established and newer subdivisions, offering a range of housing choices for both homeowners and renters.

As of 2023, Codington County, SD, has a population of approximately 28,000. The median age is about 38 years. The gender distribution is nearly even, with 50.2% male and 49.8% female. The racial composition is 90% White, 1.2% Black or African American, 1.5% Native American, and 1.3% Asian, with 6% identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Diversity has gradually increased in recent years.

Codington County, SD, had 19,247 registered voters as of 2024, primarily Republican-affiliated (about 52%), with Democrats comprising roughly 18% and Independents/others covering 30%. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections. In the 2020 presidential election, Republican candidates received 68% of the vote. Polling sites include Watertown Civic Arena and Codington County Extension Complex. Election administration is overseen by the County Auditor. Key local issues include property taxes and agricultural policy. The two dominant parties are Republican and Democrat, with Republicans consistently winning countywide offices in recent cycles.