When it comes to the Great Plains and the Midwest, South Dakota emanates a distinctive charm. With its vast prairies, rugged landscapes, and welcoming communities, South Dakota offers a unique and serene lifestyle. Whether you’re captivated by the iconic Mount Rushmore in Keystone or the tranquil beauty of Deadwood, there’s something for everyone in this state. South Dakota truly embodies a blend of natural wonders and warm-hearted communities. So, if you’re contemplating making this state your home, this Redfin article will guide you through the biggest cities in South Dakota to consider.
1. Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Population: 192,517
Median Sale Price: $315,000
Sioux Falls, SD homes for sale
Sioux Falls, SD houses for rent
Along the banks of the Big Sioux River, Sioux Falls offers a blend of Midwestern charm and modern amenities. The city boasts a thriving economy anchored by healthcare, finance, and technology industries. Residents enjoy a high quality of life, with many parks, such as Falls Park, where the iconic waterfalls cascade through the city’s heart, providing a picturesque backdrop for recreational activities and community events.
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2. Rapid City, South Dakota
Population: 74,703
Median Sale Price: $325,000
Rapid City, SD homes for sale
Rapid City, SD houses for rent
Rapid City is in the Black Hills and provides residents and visitors access to stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures. The city is a gateway to Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, and Custer State Park, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Rapid City also boasts a rich Native American history and culture, with attractions like the Journey Museum and Learning Center providing insight into the region’s heritage.
3. Aberdeen, South Dakota
Population: 28,495
Median Sale Price: $175,000
Aberdeen, SD homes for sale
Aberdeen, SD houses for rent
Aberdeen is a welcoming and close-knit community that offers a high quality of life. The city is home to Northern State University, which contributes to its vibrant arts and culture scene with regular performances, exhibits, and events. Aberdeen also boasts a robust agricultural economy and is known for its annual South Dakota Film Festival, which celebrates independent filmmaking and showcases local talent.
4. Brookings, South Dakota
Population: 23,377
Median Sale Price: $310,000
Brookings, SD homes for sale
Brookings, SD houses for rent
Brookings is a dynamic and growing city that offers a mix of small-town charm and modern amenities. The city is home to South Dakota State University, which brings a youthful energy and diverse cultural influences to the community. Brookings also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the Brookings Summer Arts Festival and the Brookings Farmers Market.
5. Watertown, South Dakota
Population: 22,655
Median Sale Price: $235,950
Watertown, SD homes for sale
Watertown, SD houses for rent
Watertown is a picturesque city known for its beautiful lakes and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city’s Lake Area Technical Institute and the Redlin Art Center contribute to its vibrant arts and culture scene, offering residents and visitors educational and creative experiences. Watertown also hosts various community events and festivals, including the Watertown Winter Farm Show and the Watertown Arts Festival, providing opportunities for residents to come together and celebrate the city’s unique character.
6. Mitchell, South Dakota
Population: 15,660
Median Sale Price: $294,950
Mitchell, SD homes for sale
Mitchell, SD houses for rent
Mitchell, South Dakota, is a charming and historic city that blends small-town hospitality and modern conveniences. The city is home to the iconic Corn Palace, a unique attraction that showcases the region’s agricultural heritage through elaborate murals made of corn and grains. Mitchell also hosts various community events and festivals, including the Mitchell Main Street and Beyond Summer Concert Series and the Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village Archaeodome, providing residents with opportunities to connect.
7. Yankton, South Dakota
Population: 15,411
Median Sale Price: $308,500
Yankton, SD homes for sale
Yankton, SD houses for rent
Yankton’s charming downtown area has various shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, providing residents with opportunities to explore and connect. Yankton also hosts various community events and festivals, including Riverboat Days and the Yankton Winter Festival, offering residents opportunities to unite and celebrate the city’s unique character.
8. Huron, South Dakota
Population: 14,263
Median Sale Price: $165,250
Huron, SD homes for sale
Huron, SD houses for rent
Huron is a close-knit community that offers a high quality of life. The city’s neighborhoods and commitment to preserving its heritage make it an ideal place to live. Huron also hosts various community events and festivals, including the South Dakota State Fair and the Huron Farmers Market, offering residents opportunities to unite and celebrate the city’s unique character.
9. Pierre, South Dakota
Population: 14,091
Median Sale Price: $176,000
Pierre, SD homes for sale
Pierre, SD houses for rent
Pierre is the state capital and offers residents natural beauty and modern amenities. The city is situated along the Missouri River and provides access to outdoor recreational activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. Pierre also boasts a rich history and cultural heritage, with attractions like the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center and the Oahe Dam providing insight into the region’s past.
10. Spearfish, South Dakota
Population: 12,193
Median Sale Price: $653,000
Spearfish, SD homes for sale
Spearfish, SD houses for rent
Spearfish is a picturesque city in the northern Black Hills and offers residents access to stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures. The city is home to Black Hills State University, which contributes to its vibrant arts and culture scene with regular performances, exhibits, and events. Spearfish also hosts various community events and festivals, including the Downtown Friday Nights Summer Concert Series.
Methodology: The population data was retrieved from the United States Census Bureau for 2021, while the median sale price data was sourced from the Redfin Data Center in January 2024.
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