Cost of Living in Howard, SD

With a cost of living index of 55, Howard, SD is one of the most affordable cities in the country. Living here is 45% cheaper than the national average and 20% below the South Dakota state average of 74. Howard is a small community of 990 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Howard's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $516 (61% below the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $93,200 (69% below the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 1.7x the median household income — well within traditional affordability guidelines.

The median household income in Howard is $54,792, which is 27% lower than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 11% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. Lower incomes here are balanced by the significantly lower cost of living, stretching each dollar further.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Howard. The area sees an average annual temperature of 47.7°F, with summers averaging 72°F and winters around 22°F. Annual rainfall totals 21.1 inches spread over roughly 84 days. Cold winters mean higher heating bills, an important cost-of-living consideration.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.