Jobs & Economy in Madison
Madison's economy runs genuinely, distinctively anchored by Dakota State University's technology- and cybersecurity-education identity.
Exploring the idea of moving?
We can connect you with a local real estate professional who knows the area -- no pressure, just a starting point.
Learn moreDakota State University anchors the local economy
DSU supported a cited 908 Lake County jobs (545 direct) and a $137.4 million annual local economic impact per a fiscal-year-2019 figure, reinforced by the $18 million MadLabs cybersecurity facility (opened October 2019).
Educational services, retail, and healthcare employment
The most common employment sectors among Madison residents are Educational Services (536 people), Retail Trade (390 people), and Health Care & Social Assistance (379 people).
Median household income below the state figure
Madison's median household income ($65,593) runs genuinely below South Dakota's own statewide figure ($76,881), alongside a real, disclosed 9.46% poverty rate.
Key takeaways
- Dakota State University is a real, distinctive economic anchor for Madison's cybersecurity-education identity.
- Educational services, retail, and healthcare are Madison's largest resident employment sectors.
- Madison's median household income runs genuinely below the SD statewide figure.
Want to know what your budget actually buys here?
Tell us a bit about what you're looking for and we'll connect you with someone local who can walk you through real numbers.
Get local guidanceRead the full Madison overview for the complete picture -- housing, taxes, climate, and who this place genuinely fits.
Planning a move?
Tell us what you're looking for and we'll connect you with a local expert who can help you make it happen.
Talk to a local expert