10 Largest Cities in South Dakota [2025]

Known for its stunning landscapes and deep historical roots, South Dakota is home to some of the most spectacular places in the United States. From the majestic Black Hills to the vast plains, the state is a haven for folks who love the outdoors and those seeking a slower pace of life. When it comes to urban living, the largest cities in South Dakota offer diverse opportunities, each with its own character, from cultural hubs to peaceful, family-friendly communities.

In this article, we’ll explore the largest South Dakota cities by population and look at what makes each of them a great place to live, work, and play.

All of the rental data included here comes from our internal database of rent estimates, which is available for download. Transit scores come from Walk Score, and census information comes directly from the U.S. Census website.

10 Largest Cities in South Dakota [2025]

1. Sioux Falls

• Median rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $823
• Median rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $956
• Population: 192,517
• Median household income: $74,714
• Walk score: 38
• Transit score: 17
• Bike score: 46
• Map of Sioux Falls

Sioux Falls is the biggest city in South Dakota and a fantastic place to call home. With a population of nearly 200,000, it offers an affordable cost of living, a thriving job market, and top-notch healthcare systems like Sanford Health and Avera Health. The city’s unemployment rate is impressively low, and major employers in industries like healthcare, finance, and retail provide an array of career opportunities.

The city is also a hub for cultural and recreational activities. Falls Park, one of 80 parks in the city, features stunning waterfalls and walking trails along the Big Sioux River. There’s also a lively arts scene centered around the Washington Pavilion, which hosts theater performances, art exhibitions, and a science museum.

Events like the Sioux Empire Fair and the annual SculptureWalk add to the excitement, while the culinary scene offers everything from Sanaa’s Gourmet Mediterranean to the Carnival Brazilian Grill. Whether you’re looking to move forward in your career, adventure in the outdoors, or enjoy new cultural experiences, the largest city in South Dakota offers a well-rounded lifestyle to do just that.

Check out our listings in Sioux Falls.

2. Rapid City

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,543
• Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment: $1,716
• Population: 74,703
• Median household income: $65,712
• Walk score: 28
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 36
• Map of Rapid City

Rapid City, otherwise known as the Gateway to the Black Hills, is one of the many larger South Dakota cities that offers small-town charm. Home to about 75,000 residents, the city offers stunning natural beauty and proximity to the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

There are endless opportunities for adventure in nearby parks like Custer State Park and Badlands National Park. And since Rapid City experiences around 260 days of sunshine annually, it’s an excellent destination for the majority of the year. The city's historic downtown is home to unique local restaurants, shops, and events like the Rapid City Summer Nights weekly concert series at Main Street Square.

While Rapid City’s remote location fosters a slower pace of life, it also means fewer big-city conveniences and longer travel times to major urban centers. Despite this, its affordability and natural wonders make it an excellent place.

Check out our listings in Rapid City.

3. Aberdeen

• Starting rent for an apartment in Aberdeen: $750
• Population: 28,495
• Median household income: $63,715
• Walk score: 39
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 63
• Map of Aberdeen

Aberdeen is one of the many big cities in South Dakota that has become known for its thriving agricultural, manufacturing, and other trades. Families often move here to take advantage of high-performing schools, affordable cost of living, and a variety of family-friendly recreational opportunities.

The city is home to unique attractions like Storybook Land, where children can explore the Land of Oz and enjoy carnival rides, and Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge, which is a serene haven for migratory birds.

History and art enthusiasts can enjoy free admission at the Dacotah Prairie Museum, which has rotating exhibits throughout the year. As for food, you can find everything from refreshing confectionaries at Waffle Cone to craft beer at the One-Legged Pheasant Brewery.

With its warm, welcoming community and abundance of attractions, Aberdeen is a place with big opportunities.

Check out our listings in Aberdeen.

4. Brookings

• Starting rent for an apartment in Brookings: $1,100
• Population: 23,377
• Median household income: $61,979
• Walk score: 39
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 58
• Map of Brookings

Brookings is a lively community with a small-town feel and the energy of a college town. Home to just over 23,000 residents, it’s known for its inviting atmosphere, tree-lined streets, and colorful downtown murals.

This town is a hub of culture and recreation, offering two state museums, the renowned Children’s Museum of South Dakota, and the state-of-the-art Oscar Larson Performing Arts Center. As for the outdoors, there are miles of bike trails that connect neighborhoods, parks, and schools, creating endless opportunities for adventure.

This city prides itself on offering a high quality of life, a low crime rate, minimal traffic, and a strong sense of Midwestern friendliness. Brookings is also an economic powerhouse, hosting a mix of entrepreneurs, thriving local businesses, and global manufacturers.

Whether you’re relocating or looking to start a business, Brookings is one of the best South Dakota towns, no matter your goals or aspirations.

Check out our listings in Brookings.

5. Watertown

• Starting rent for an apartment in Watertown: $1,300
• Population: 22,655
• Median household income: $62,721
• Walk score: 36
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: 46
• Map of Watertown

Nestled in South Dakota's Glacial Lakes region between Lake Kampeska and Pelican Lake, Watertown offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions.

As one of the biggest towns in South Dakota, Watertown boasts a strong workforce, low taxes, and a business-friendly environment. Its clean and safe neighborhoods, highly rated schools, and advanced healthcare facilities make it a prime choice for both families and professionals.

The town is home to the renowned Redlin Art Center, which showcases the work of Americana and wildlife artist Terry Redlin, as well as the Bramble Park Zoo and the historic Goss Opera House. There are also abundant opportunities for fishing, boating, and hunting in the surrounding lakes and colorful autumn landscapes.

With easy access to major transportation routes like Interstate 29 and U.S. Highway 212, Watertown has all of the small-town charm you could ask for with the convenience of modern amenities.

Check out our listings in Watertown.

6. Mitchell

• Starting rent for an apartment in Mitchell: $550
• Population: 15,660
• Median household income: $56,374
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Mitchell

If you’re looking to move to one of the biggest cities in South Dakota that also happens to be experiencing a lot of growth, explore Mitchell. This large town is buzzing with opportunity, driven by major projects like the $500 million High Plains Processing soybean plant and a new industrial park, both poised to boost the local economy and create new jobs.

Downtown Mitchell is also undergoing a renaissance, with streetscape improvements, public art, and new businesses like Palace City Brewing Company revitalizing the area.

Even with an emphasis on economic development, Mitchell also focuses on education and infrastructure. The city recently opened a state-of-the-art high school and plans to expand water and sewer capacity to support its growing population. The local economy is further supported by two colleges, Dakota Wesleyan University and Mitchell Technical College, which bring young talent into the area. As the city continues to grow, it remains a welcoming place with a strong community, offering both business opportunities and a high quality of life.

Check out our listings in Mitchell.

7. Yankton

• Starting rent for an apartment in Yankton: $1,400
• Population: 15,411
• Median household income: $69,071
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Yankton

Nestled along the Missouri River, Yankton is a charming waterfront community that embraces the natural beauty of South Dakota. The Lewis and Clark Recreation Area offers miles of trails, fishing spots, and stunning views, while the historic Meridian Bridge provides a perfect vantage point to take in the city’s picturesque landscape. For those who love local flavor, a visit to Charlie’s Pizza House—recognized by the Food Network in 2018 as one of the best in the state—is a must.

Not only is Yankton a great place to visit, but it's a wonderful place to call home. With a growing craft beer scene at Ben’s Brewing Company and Sixth Meridian Hop Farm and year-round outdoor activities, the city offers a balanced lifestyle.

Whether you're enjoying the Missouri National Recreational River or exploring unique shops and events downtown, Yankton combines the tranquility of riverside living with a vibrant, welcoming community.

Check out our listings in Yankton.

8. Huron

• Starting rent for an apartment in Huron: N/A
• Population: 14,263
• Median household income: $51,556
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Huron

Huron is located in east-central South Dakota and is known for its excellent school system, top-notch healthcare at the Huron Medical Center, and its variety of recreational options like the Nordby Center for Recreation.

The city is home to many parks, walking trails, and renowned golf courses, while families can make lasting memories at annual events like the famous South Dakota State Fair.

Huron’s Midwestern hospitality is complemented by a thriving local economy, offering everything from unique dining spots to charming shops just around the corner. This lovely community makes it easy to settle in, whether you're visiting for the lively Wheel Jam or enjoying a peaceful day along the James River at Memorial Park.

Plus, Huron is also home to the iconic World’s Largest Pheasant attraction, proudly celebrating its agricultural roots!

Check out our listings in Huron.

9. Pierre

• Starting rent for an apartment in Pierre: $1,250
• Population: 14,091
• Median household income: $74,053
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Pierre

Pierre, South Dakota, offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure set against the stunning backdrop of the Missouri River. As the second-smallest state capital in the U.S., this South Dakota town provides residents with a uniquely calming atmosphere. The river itself is a haven for anglers, while nearby Lake Oahe stretches 231 miles to offer some of the best fishing in the region. If you prefer land over water, the surrounding grasslands are perfect for hunting and hiking.

The city’s vibrant downtown features charming shops, restaurants, and an impressive array of public art, including bronze statues of South Dakota's governors lining the streets.

Monuments honoring veterans and first responders add to Pierre’s sense of pride. Overall, the city offers a fulfilling lifestyle from all perspectives.

Check out our listings in Pierre.

10. Spearfish

• Starting rent for an apartment in Spearfish: $1,000
• Population: 12,193
• Median household income: $59,731
• Walk score: N/A
• Transit score: N/A
• Bike score: N/A
• Map of Spearfish

Spearfish lies in the Black Hills of South Dakota near Lookout Mountain, providing a natural playground for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting. The surrounding Spearfish Canyon is renowned for its breathtaking beauty, offering hiking trails like the one to Devil’s Bathtub, where shaded paths lead to crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect spot to cool off after a day of exploration.

The welcoming atmosphere extends to downtown, where visitors can enjoy local dining spots like the Bay Leaf Cafe or Dough Trader Pizza, as well as local craft beer at Crow Peak Brewing Company.

Known for its low cost of living, low crime rates, and access to endless outdoor activities, Spearfish is also a top contender for adventure-seekers looking for a peaceful yet exciting place to call home.

Check out our listings in Spearfish.

Need Help Finding an Apartment in South Dakota?

Apartment List makes it easy to find your perfect home in South Dakota, no matter which city you’re interested in. With a wide range of rental options available across the major cities in South Dakota and beyond, Apartment List helps you discover places that fit your lifestyle and budget.

Whether you're looking for a cozy apartment in Sioux Falls or a spacious rental in Rapid City, we've got something for everyone. Take our quick quiz now to match with the ideal home for you.

Find your perfect apartment with Apartment List. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.