RANK #663 / 996 · POP 65,801 · SD
PROJECTED GROWTH: +0.2%
Lincoln County, South Dakota, stands out as one of the fastest-growing counties in the United States, largely due to the southward expansion of Sioux Falls, the state's largest city. Canton serves as the county seat, while other notable towns include Tea and Harrisburg. Commuting to Sioux Falls is a common practice, with Interstate 29 running through the county. The community offers access to outdoor recreation along the Big Sioux River, with opportunities for kayaking and fishing, and parks like Lake Alvin and Newton Hills State Park provide hiking and camping options.
Life in Lincoln County is characterized by a mix of families and young professionals, with a majority of residents owning their homes. The public schools in districts like Harrisburg, Tea Area, and Canton are considered above average. The economy is significantly influenced by its proximity to Sioux Falls, which is a major trade area and home to nationally recognized healthcare providers. Recent economic developments include public-private partnerships focused on developing commercial, light industrial, and residential areas, leading to increased tax revenue for schools and communities.
Contracting economy
Above national median
Harsh climate or flat terrain
Above national median (13x)
Housing looks undervalued at 2.9x — home prices are low relative to local economic output. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
Lincoln County has a Boom Town Index score of 34/100, ranking #663 among 996 U.S. counties. With job growth at +3.2% and a median household income of $92,317, it faces some economic headwinds compared to faster-growing counties.
The median home value in Lincoln County is $292,200 with median rent at $1,206/month. The income-to-home-value ratio is 0.3159, which is more affordable than the national average.
Population growth: +4.1% year-over-year. Job growth: +3.2%. Home values changed +2.0% in the past 12 months.
Yes — 6.22% of Lincoln County's population moved from another state, which is above the national average and indicates strong in-migration.