While South Dakota is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes like Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park, bustling urban centers also dot the state, offering vibrant communities, rich history, and diverse experiences. Whether you seek bustling cityscapes, charming small towns, or cultural gems, South Dakota’s 10 largest cities have something for everyone.
So, buckle up and join us on a journey exploring South Dakota’s urban scene!
Sioux Falls
Boasting the title of South Dakota’s largest city, Sioux Falls thrums with energy. Explore Falls Park, home to the cascading namesake falls, or delve into the Sioux Falls Art Museum’s renowned collection. Foodies rejoice with diverse dining options, from farm-to-table fare to international flavors. Catch a concert at the Denny Sanford Premier Center or browse unique finds at the Sioux Falls Public Market.
The population of Sioux Falls depends on which source you trust and the date of information:
- 2020 Census: 192,517;
- 2022 Estimated Population: 202,078 (U.S. Census Bureau);
- Early 2024 Estimated Population: 213,891 (City of Sioux Falls officials).
Therefore, you can say that Sioux Falls has an estimated population of approximately 213,891 as of early 2024, making it the largest city in South Dakota. It’s important to note that these are estimates, and the official population count may be different.
1. QuickFacts:
- Visit the QuickFacts website: https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/sis/resources/data-tools/quickfacts.html;
- Select “South Dakota” from the state list;
- Then, select “Sioux Falls city, South Dakota” to access a page with various demographic and economic data about the city, including population, age distribution, income, and more.
2. American FactFinder:
- Visit the American FactFinder website: https://data.census.gov/;
- Select “2020” as the data year;
- In the “Search” bar, type “Sioux Falls, South Dakota”;
- Select “Place (city / town / village)” for “Search in”;
- Click “GO” to access detailed tables with various demographic and economic data about Sioux Falls.
Rapid City
Nestled at the foothills of the Black Hills, Rapid City serves as the gateway to adventure. Discover iconic monuments like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse, delve into Native American history at the Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center, or explore the fascinating Journey Museum & Learning Center. Enjoy the vibrant arts scene, catch a performance at the historic Black Hills Playhouse, or unwind in scenic parks like Canyon Lake Park.
The population of Rapid City, South Dakota, depends on which source you trust and the date of information:
- 2020 Census: 74,703;
- 2022 Estimated Population: 77,235 (U.S. Census Bureau);
- Early 2024 Estimated Population: 79,532 (City of Rapid City officials).
Therefore, you can say that Rapid City has an estimated population of approximately 79,532 as of early 2024. It’s important to note that these are estimates, and the official population count may be different.
Here are some resources where you can find more information about Rapid City’s population:
- U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/rapidcitycitysouthdakota/PST045223
Aberdeen
Immerse yourself in history and cultural charm in Aberdeen. Stroll through the Aberdeen Historic District, marvel at the iconic Aberdeen Angus Barn, or uncover treasures at the Dacotah Prairie Museum. Catch a rodeo at the Aberdeen Stockyards, or enjoy outdoor activities like fishing at Mina Lake or golfing at the Moccasin Creek Golf Course.
Here’s the information about the population of Aberdeen, South Dakota:
As of February 15, 2024:
- 2020 Census: 16,804
- 2022 Estimated Population: 17,492 (U.S. Census Bureau)
- Early 2024 Estimated Population: No estimates available from City of Aberdeen officials as of today.
Given the lack of more recent estimates from the city, it’s safe to say that the estimated population of Aberdeen is somewhere between 17,492 and the 2020 census count of 16,804.
Here are some resources where you can find more information about Aberdeen’s population:
- U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/aberdeencitysouthdakota/PST045221
Brookings
Home to South Dakota State University, Brookings offers a dynamic mix of collegiate energy and small-town charm. Visit the South Dakota Art Museum, delve into history at the Brookings County Historical Society Museum, or enjoy a local brew at the Big Sioux Falls Brewing Company. Catch a performance at the historic State Theatre or soak up the natural beauty at Lake Hendricks.
Here’s the information about the population of Brookings, South Dakota as of February 15, 2024:
- 2020 Census: 23,377;
- 2022 Estimated Population: 24,329 (U.S. Census Bureau);
- Early 2024 Estimated Population: 25,235 (City of Brookings officials).
Therefore, you can say that the estimated population of Brookings is approximately 25,235 as of early 2024. This makes it the fourth most populous city in South Dakota.
Here are some resources where you can find more information about Brookings’ population:
- U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/brookingscitysouthdakota,brookingscountysouthdakota/PST045222
Watertown
Discover the natural splendor and historical richness of Watertown. Relax on the shores of Lake Kampeska, explore the Watertown Zoo, or learn about the area’s fascinating past at the Brown County Museum of History. Enjoy outdoor activities like biking on the Pelican Lake Trail or golfing at the Watertown Municipal Golf Course.
As of February 15, 2024, here’s the information about Watertown, South Dakota’s population:
- 2020 Census: 16,570;
- 2022 Estimated Population: 17,139 (U.S. Census Bureau).
Early 2024 Estimated Population:
- Unfortunately, official estimates from the City of Watertown for early 2024 are not currently available;
- However, based on the trends seen in other South Dakota cities, it’s reasonable to estimate that the population of Watertown has grown slightly since the 2022 estimate.
Therefore, you can say that the estimated population of Watertown is likely somewhere between 17,139 and slightly higher as of February 15, 2024.
Mitchell
Step back in time in Mitchell, known as the “Corn Palace City” for its iconic Corn Palace, adorned with stunning murals made entirely of corn. Catch a performance at the Dakota Stage Theatre, delve into history at the Davison County Historical Society Museum, or enjoy outdoor activities like fishing at Lake Mitchell or biking on the Lewis and Clark Trail.
Here’s the information about the population of Mitchell, South Dakota as of February 15, 2024:
- 2020 Census: 15,259;
- 2022 Estimated Population: 15,954 (U.S. Census Bureau);
- Early 2024 Estimated Population.
Similar to Watertown, official estimates from the City of Mitchell for early 2024 are currently unavailable. However, based on the trends observed in other South Dakota cities, it’s likely that the population has increased slightly since the 2022 estimate.
Therefore, you can say that the estimated population of Mitchell in early 2024 is likely somewhere between 15,954 and slightly higher.
Brandon
Nestled on the banks of the Big Sioux River, Brandon offers a blend of scenic beauty and small-town charm. Enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking, or explore the Brandon Valley Historical Society Museum. Savor local flavor at charming cafes and restaurants, or unwind at one of the city’s parks.
As of February 15, 2024, here’s the information about Brandon, South Dakota’s population:
- 2020 Census: 9,584;
- 2022 Estimated Population: 10,245 (U.S. Census Bureau);
- Early 2024 Estimated Population.
Unfortunately, similar to some other South Dakota cities, official estimates from the City of Brandon for early 2024 are not currently available.
However, based on the general population growth trends observed in South Dakota and nearby communities, it’s reasonable to assume that the population of Brandon has likely grown slightly since the 2022 estimate.
Therefore, you can say that the estimated population of Brandon in early 2024 is likely somewhere between 10,245 and slightly higher.
Pierre
As South Dakota’s capital city, Pierre exudes historical charm and political intrigue. Visit the South Dakota State Capitol, tour the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center, or delve into history at the South Dakota State Penitentiary. Take a stroll along the Missouri River, enjoy picnics in Pierre City Park, or catch a performance at the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center’s amphitheater.
As of February 15, 2024, here’s the information about the population of Pierre, South Dakota:
- 2020 Census: 14,091;
- 2022 Estimated Population: 14,602 (U.S. Census Bureau);
- Early 2024 Estimated Population.
Unlike some other South Dakota cities, official estimates from the City of Pierre for early 2024 are available! According to their website, the estimated population as of January 1, 2024, is 14,799.
Therefore, you can confidently say that the population of Pierre is approximately 14,799 as of early 2024. This makes it the 8th most populous city in South Dakota.
Here are some resources where you can find more information about Pierre’s population:
- City of Pierre website: https://www.pierre.org/
Spearfish
Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, Spearfish offers stunning scenery and outdoor adventure opportunities. Explore Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, hike to breathtaking waterfalls, or visit the Black Hills National Forest. Savor unique dining experiences, explore local art galleries, or unwind in scenic parks like the Spearfish Canyon Recreation Area.
Here’s the information about the population of Spearfish, South Dakota as of February 15, 2024:
- 2020 Census: 12,193;
- 2022 Estimated Population: 13,257 (U.S. Census Bureau);
- Early 2024 Estimated Population.
Unlike some other South Dakota cities, official estimates from the City of Spearfish for early 2024 are not readily available.
However, we can utilize several sources to provide a reliable estimate:
- World Population Review: Based on their projections, Spearfish has an estimated population of 14,036 as of February 15, 2024;
- [invalid URL removed]: While not an official source, they estimate Spearfish’s population to be 13,862 as of March 2023.
Therefore, considering these sources and the general population growth trends observed in South Dakota, you can say that the estimated population of Spearfish in early 2024 is likely between 13,862 and 14,036.
Here are some resources where you can find further information about Spearfish’s population:
- U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/spearfishcitysouthdakota/PST04522
Yankton
Steeped in history and boasting scenic beauty, Yankton sits where the Missouri and James rivers converge. Explore the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, delve into local history at the Yankton Area Museum, or stroll along the Lewis & Clark Trail. Enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and hiking, or unwind in scenic parks like Riverside Park.
Here’s the information about the population of Yankton, South Dakota as of February 15, 2024:
- 2020 Census: 15,411;
- 2022 Estimated Population: 16,230 (U.S. Census Bureau);
- Early 2024 Estimated Population.
Similar to some other South Dakota cities, official population estimates from the City of Yankton for early 2024 are not currently available.
However, based on the general population growth trends observed in South Dakota and nearby communities, it’s reasonable to assume that the population of Yankton has likely increased slightly since the 2022 estimate.
Therefore, you can confidently say that the estimated population of Yankton in early 2024 is likely somewhere between 16,230 and slightly higher.
Summarize
This post is just a starting point for your exploration of South Dakota’s urban gems. Each city offers unique experiences and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
Last modified: February 29, 2024
