What are the hidden costs of living in Box Elder?

Higher auto costs due to car‑dependent lifestyle. Utility bills can be higher in rural areas (heat, water). Homeowners’ insurance may be pricier if you own a dog or live in a higher‑risk area.

What is the median home price in Box Elder?

The median home price in Box Elder is approximately $270,300.

Box Elder, SD

Updated May 1, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Think twice

Verdict

$270K

Median Price

…

Walk Score

6/10

Schools

35 min

to Rapid City

Score Breakdown

FWalkability

0/100

CSchools

60/100

B-Commute

70/100

B-Quietness

70/100

BSafety

78/100

BAffordability

78/100

WYLT Score59/100

Our Take

Box Elder offers affordable homes and a tight‑knit small‑town vibe, but its lack of walkability, limited amenities, and recent reports of dog attacks make it a risky choice for families who want convenient access to services or a low‑risk environment.

Map

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The Good

✓Median home price ($270k) is below the national average and well matched to median income ($72k).
✓Low flood risk and generally low violent crime for a small town.
✓Good schools with several elementary options and a decent high school.
✓Community feels tight‑knit and generally friendly to families.

Real Talk

!Almost all errands require a car – the town’s walk score is 0.
!Limited dining, nightlife, and cultural options; most entertainment is a drive away.
!Recent media coverage of pit‑bull attacks has raised concerns about dog safety and community safety awareness.
!Job opportunities are sparse; many residents commute to nearby larger cities for work.
$Higher auto costs due to car‑dependent lifestyle.
$Utility bills can be higher in rural areas (heat, water).
$Homeowners’ insurance may be pricier if you own a dog or live in a higher‑risk area.

Best For

Families looking for affordable rural livingPeople who prefer a close‑knit communityIndividuals willing to drive for amenitiesThose who are comfortable with car dependence

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow

Violent crimeLow

Property crimeModerate

Air qualityGood

Price volatilityLow

Crime & Safety

Box Elder, SD

Safety grade

Safety score78 / 100

High riskVery safe

⚠️Violent Crime

Low

1.6incidents / 1,000 residents / yr

0Natl avg (3.7)11+

57% safer than the national average

🔒Property Crime

Moderate

19.8incidents / 1,000 residents / yr

0Natl avg (19.5)59+

2% higher than the national average

Verify with real-time data

AreaVibes crime →City-Data stats →NeighborhoodScout →

Rates are estimated from neighborhood characteristics using national FBI baselines. Actual figures vary by block — always verify with local sources before making decisions.

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From Residents

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