South Dakota

The Mount Rushmore State
State flag of South Dakota featuring the state seal surrounded by golden sunbeams on a sky blue field
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Quick Stats
0.9M Population
#46 Rank
1889 Joined
77.1k Area (mi²)
Map
Geographical map showing the layout of South Dakota with the Black Hills in the west and the Missouri River spanning the state

Seal and Motto
Official seal of South Dakota featuring a steamship, a plowman, and a herd of cattle, symbolizing agriculture and commerce
"Under God, the People Rule"
Additional Information
Abbreviation SD
Motto Origin

State constitutional motto.

Adopted 1889.

Official Website SouthDakota.gov
Population Growth
Overview

South Dakota is a state in the North Central United States, defined by the vast prairies of the Great Plains and the rugged peaks of the Black Hills. Home to some of the nation's most iconic monuments and breathtaking natural parks, it offers a rich blend of frontier history and outdoor adventure for students and travelers today.

Historical Significance

South Dakota officially joined the Union on November 2, 1889, as the 40th state (admitted simultaneously with North Dakota). Its history is deeply rooted in the cultures of the Great Sioux Nation and the legendary Gold Rush that transformed the Black Hills, shaping a resilient identity that persists today.

Top Cities & Hubs
1

Sioux Falls

Population: ~195,000

The state's largest city and a major hub for finance and healthcare, known for its beautiful waterfalls on the Big Sioux River.

2

Rapid City

Population: ~75,000

Known as the "Gateway to the Black Hills," serving as a central hub for tourism and historical exploration in western South Dakota.

3

Aberdeen

Population: ~28,000

A major regional center in the northeast, home to Northern State University and a diverse economy focused on healthcare.

4

Brookings

Population: ~24,000

Home to South Dakota State University and a thriving center for research, modern agriculture, and high-tech manufacturing.

5

Pierre

Population: ~14,000

The state capital, situated on the Missouri River, known for its beautiful waterfront and historic role in the state's government.

Neighbors
North Dakota Minnesota Iowa Nebraska Wyoming Montana

Region: Midwest

Key Landmarks & Economy
Mount Rushmore: Carved into the granite face of the Black Hills, this iconic memorial features the 60-foot heads of four U.S. presidents, symbolizing American history.
Badlands National Park: This dramatic landscape of eroded buttes and pinnacles contains one of the world's richest fossil beds, offering unique opportunities for discovery.
Agriculture & Tourism: South Dakota's economy is anchored by its thriving agricultural sector and robust tourism industry, driven by iconic national landmarks.
Did You Know?
  • South Dakota is home to the Crazy Horse Memorial, which will be the world's largest mountain carving once completed, honoring the Lakota warrior.
  • The state's Black Hills are among the oldest geological formations in North America, with granite peaks predating the Rocky Mountains.
  • The Corn Palace in Mitchell is the world's only palace of its kind, featuring unique murals made entirely from corn and other grains.
Demographics