Hutchinson County Public RecordsSouth Dakota

As of the 2020 Census, Hutchinson County, South Dakota, had a population of 7,427. The median age was 45.7 years, with 22.8% of residents under 18 and 25.1% aged 65 or older. The gender split was approximately 50.6% male and 49.4% female. Racially, the population was 92.9% White, 1.6% Native American, 0.5% Asian, and 4.1% Hispanic or Latino, with other races and multiracial individuals comprising the remainder.

Hutchinson County, SD, has around 5 public schools serving K-12, with notable high schools like Freeman and Parkston, and a public high school graduation rate near 92% (2023). About 17% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average standardized test scores are slightly above the state median. The county features adult education opportunities and technical programs via nearby Southeast Technical College. School safety measures align with state guidelines, maintaining low incident rates. Educational programs include career and technical education, special education, and extracurricular activities, supporting well-rounded student development.

As of 2022, Hutchinson County, SD, had an unemployment rate of 2.1%. The largest employment sectors were Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting (26%), Manufacturing (18%), and Health Care & Social Assistance (13%). Most workers held positions in management, production, and office/administrative support. Around 77% of the county’s workforce commuted by car, with an average commute time of 17 minutes. While a significant portion worked within the county, about 24% commuted to adjacent areas, notably Yankton and Minnehaha counties, for employment.

Hutchinson County, SD, has a homeownership rate of about 77%, with median home values around $110,000. Rental options are limited, with median gross rent near $600 per month. The housing market is stable, with values increasing slowly by about 2% annually. Single-family detached homes dominate, though some duplexes and apartments exist. Neighborhoods in areas like Parkston and Freeman are quiet and community-oriented. Property taxes average 1.27% of assessed value, keeping overall housing costs affordable compared to the national average.

Hutchinson County, SD has approximately 4,200 registered voters as of 2022, with Republicans comprising about 68%, Democrats 16%, and Independents 16%. The county holds general, primary, and local elections, with 5 polling locations such as the County Courthouse in Olivet. In the 2020 presidential election, 78% voted Republican and 20% Democrat. Election administration is handled by the County Auditor’s Office. Key local issues often include agriculture and property taxes. The main parties active are Republican and Democratic, with Libertarian and independent candidates occasionally participating.

Hutchinson County, SD, maintains a low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 40 total crimes, including 35 property crimes and 5 violent crimes, equating to a crime rate of about 6.2 per 1,000 residents. Local law enforcement utilizes regular patrols and community engagement to enhance safety. Crime is primarily reported via the Hutchinson County Sheriff’s Office, with incidents documented for transparency. The county’s proactive policing and strong community ties contribute to its reputation as a safe place to live and work.