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Studio Apartment for Rent in Watertown, SD

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    $595 Per Month

    • Studio
    • 1 Bath
    • Condo for Rent

    405 3rd Ave SE Unit 2, Watertown, SD 57201

    405 3rd Ave SE Unit 2, Watertown, SD 57201

Why Live in Watertown

Watertown, South Dakota, with a population of around 22,000, is known for its picturesque landscapes, including Lake Kampeska and Pelican Lake, which offer year-round recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and ice fishing. The city is home to the Redlin Art Center, showcasing the works of local artist Terry Redlin, and features over 20 public parks, including the expansive Stokes-Thomas Lake City Park & Campground. Watertown's attractions also include the Bramble Park Zoo, the Goss Opera House, and annual events like the Holiday Light Parade and Cookin’ on Kampeska. The city’s downtown area, particularly along Broadway Avenue, is lined with historic buildings, casual dining options, and breweries. Watertown School District is highly rated, and the Lake Area Technical College provides strong educational opportunities. Housing options range from late 1800s cottages to ranch-style and split-level homes from the late 20th century. The city’s crime rates are lower than both national and state averages, contributing to its appeal as a family-friendly community. Watertown is accessible via Interstate 29, which connects to Sioux Falls, and has a regional airport with flights to major hubs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Watertown, SD?
The median rent for a home in Watertown, SD is $1,100 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of July 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Watertown, SD?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Watertown, SD, a household needs to earn roughly $44,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $1,100 per month in Watertown, SD, renters typically need to show $3,300 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Watertown, SD?
In Watertown, SD, the price-to-rent ratio is 22.5, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
1
Median Rent
$1,100
Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,388
Median Condo Rent
$950
How to Rent a Home