Located in the Midwest region of the United States, South Dakota is the 17th biggest state in terms of area but has the 46th largest population. This makes South Dakota one of the most sparsely populated states of America. The state covers a total area of 77,116 square miles and has borders with North Dakota, Nebraska, Montana, Wyoming, Iowa, and Minnesota.
Largest Cities in South Dakota
- Sioux Falls
Located in Minnehaha County, of which it is the county seat, Sioux Falls is the largest city in South Dakota. Some small parts of the city extend into Lincoln County, and Sioux Falls is located in the eastern part of the state. This city covers an area of 73.47 square miles and has an estimated population of 176,000, with over 259,000 people living in the surrounding metropolitan area.
- Rapid City
Rapid City is almost half the population of Sioux Falls with 69,854 residents recorded as living in the area in 2012. This city sees an abundance of tourism each year due to its historical landmarks such as Mount Rushmore and Badland National Park. According to the Mayors Report, the city is considered a favorable place to live for senior citizens because of a low tax rate burden, high volunteerism, and low unemployment.
- Aberdeen
Located in Brown County, of which it is the county seat, Aberdeen is the third-largest city in South Dakota. It is located in the northeastern part of the state and covers an area of 15.6 square miles. The estimated population of Aberdeen is 28,000, with over 43,000 people living in the city’s metropolitan area.
- Brookings
Brookings is another South Dakota city that continues to experience a growth in population annually. Since 2000 the population has grown 22 percent to 22,591 residents, making it the fourth largest city in South Dakota.
- Watertown
Located in Codington County, of which it is the county seat, Watertown is the fifth largest city in South Dakota. It is the main city of the Watertown Micropolitan Statistical Area and can be found in the northeastern part of the state. Watertown covers an area of 25.04 square miles and has an estimated population of 22,000, with 28,000 in the surrounding metropolitan area.