Union County Public RecordsSouth Dakota

As of the 2020 Census, Union County, SD had a population of 16,811. The median age was 42.3 years. About 50.2% were female and 49.8% male. Racially, 94.1% identified as White, 0.9% Asian, 0.4% Black or African American, 0.8% Native American, and 2.0% Hispanic or Latino of any race, with the remainder identifying as two or more races or other.

Union County, SD, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. According to recent FBI data, the county reported a violent crime rate of approximately 53 incidents per 100,000 people in 2022, well below the U.S. average of 388. Property crime rates were also lower, at about 420 incidents per 100,000 residents. Local law enforcement actively encourages community reporting and partnerships to enhance safety, utilizing regular patrols and outreach programs. Overall, Union County is considered a safe area with effective crime prevention and reporting systems in place.

Union County, SD, had 10,236 registered voters as of 2022, with registrations split primarily between Republican (about 60%), Democratic (25%), and Independent/Other (15%). The county conducts primary, general, and special elections. In the 2020 general election, turnout was approximately 73%. Voting is managed by the Union County Auditor's Office, with polling locations in towns like Elk Point and Beresford. Key issues include agricultural policy and education. Election results and polling sites are posted on the county website, with the Republican Party consistently winning countywide offices in recent cycles.

Union County, SD is served primarily by the Elk Point-Jefferson and Dakota Valley School Districts, featuring around 6 public schools. The high school graduation rate in the county exceeds 90%, and approximately 28% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety ratings are above state averages, and standardized test scores in core subjects surpass South Dakota norms. Union County schools offer a variety of academic programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) courses and vocational training, supporting both college readiness and workforce skills. Adult education opportunities, such as GED and technical classes, are accessible through local institutions.

As of 2022, Union County, SD, reported an employment rate of approximately 68%. Major industries include manufacturing (19.5%), healthcare and social assistance (17.1%), and retail trade (11.6%). Top occupations are production (14.9%), office/administrative support (12.2%), and management (11.3%). About 24% of residents work locally, while 57% commute to Sioux City, IA, or other neighboring areas, with an average commute time of 21.8 minutes. These figures reflect Union County’s mixed economic base and significant inter-county workforce mobility.

Union County, SD features a homeownership rate around 77%, higher than the national average, with a median home value of approximately $255,000 in 2023. Median rent is about $895 per month. The county offers a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and some apartments, primarily in neighborhoods across Elk Point and the Dakota Dunes area. Recent trends show steady property value growth of about 6% yearly. Property taxes average 1.43% of assessed value. Union County appeals to families seeking suburban comfort, affordable property, and good access to Sioux City, IA.