Hughes County's 2026 population is estimated at 17,344, reflecting a -0.52% growth rate over the past year (World Population Review estimate based on U.S. Census Bureau data). Hughes County is the 13th largest county in South Dakota. The 2010 population was 17,077 and has grown 1.56% since 2010.
Data after 2023 is projected based on recent change
Overall: 39.5 years
Female: 41 years
Male: 37.9 years
There are 13,352 adults, (3,188 of whom are seniors) in Hughes County.
Female: 8,836 (50%)
Male: 8,828 (50%)
The racial composition of Hughes County includes 80.68% White, 10.99% Native American, and smaller percentages for other race, Asian, Black or African American and multiracial populations.
| Race | Population ↓ | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 14,252 | 80.68% |
| Native American | 1,941 | 10.99% |
| Two or more races | 1,149 | 6.5% |
| Other race | 197 | 1.12% |
| Asian | 116 | 0.66% |
| Black or African American | 9 | 0.05% |
Hughes County 's average per capita income is $51,643. Household income levels show a median of $81,395. The poverty rate stands at 9.16%.
| Name | Median ↓ | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $116,044 | - |
| Families | $104,199 | $122,282 |
| Households | $81,395 | $99,105 |
| Non Families | $43,165 | $57,919 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate