Lawrence County Public RecordsSouth Dakota

As of 2023, Lawrence County, SD, has a population of approximately 26,000. The median age is about 43 years, with 49% male and 51% female residents. The county is predominantly White (93%), followed by Native American (2%), Hispanic or Latino (2%), and other races (3%). The area features a mix of young adults, families, and retirees, reflecting moderate diversity and steady growth.

Lawrence County, SD, had approximately 21,000 registered voters for the 2022 general election, with registration managed by the County Auditor's office. Major parties include Republican and Democratic, with about 55% GOP, 24% Democrat, and 21% independent/other. Elections held include federal, state, county, and local contests; the county favored Republican candidates, with Donald Trump winning 67% in 2020. Polling locations cover 14 precincts, such as Deadwood and Spearfish. Key issues include property taxes and tourism growth. Results and information are available through the official Lawrence County website and the South Dakota Secretary of State.

Lawrence County, SD, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 170 total crimes, including 20 violent crimes and 150 property crimes. The violent crime rate stands at 2.4 per 1,000 residents, below the U.S. average of 4. Property crime occurs at a rate of roughly 17.5 per 1,000 residents. Local law enforcement actively encourages community reporting and engagement to sustain safety, resulting in a consistently lower-than-average crime rate. Regular public updates and transparent statistics support ongoing community trust.

Lawrence County, SD has around 10 public schools, including Spearfish High School and Lead-Deadwood High School, with an average graduation rate of approximately 90%. About 29% of residents hold at least a bachelor’s degree. The average student-teacher ratio is 14:1, and schools score above the state average on standardized tests. Adult education is supported by Black Hills State University in Spearfish. School safety measures include secure campuses and resource officers. Educational programs cover STEM, arts, and vocational training, ensuring diverse learning opportunities for students at all levels.

As of 2022, Lawrence County, SD, had an employment rate of approximately 62.3%. Major industries include health care & social assistance (15%), accommodation & food services (14%), and retail trade (12%). The predominant occupations are office & administrative support (12%) and food preparation & serving (10%). About 80% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 18 minutes. The largest employment centers are Deadwood, Spearfish, and Lead, with many residents also working in nearby Rapid City.

Lawrence County, SD, has a homeownership rate of approximately 73%, with median home values around $322,000 (2023). Median gross rents average $950 per month. The county’s housing market has seen 6% annual appreciation, driven by demand in Spearfish and Deadwood. Housing types include single-family homes, mountain cabins, and some multi-family units. Neighborhoods like Spearfish offer suburban settings, while Lead and Deadwood feature historic homes. Property taxes average 1.34% of assessed value, among the higher rates in South Dakota. The area remains attractive for both homeowners and renters due to scenic surroundings and employment opportunities.