The state of South Dakota is growing. So fast, in fact, that according to the Dakota Institute, it's the fifth fastest-growing state in the country, behind only Florida, Idaho, South Carolina, and Texas.

With that being said, some areas of the state are growing much faster than others, including one city that is drawing new citizens from all around the U.S.

Not only is its population increasing at a faster level than any other city in the Mount Rushmore State, but it's also growing more quickly than all other areas in the entire Midwest, and it doesn't appear to be slowing down at any point in the near future.

KKRC-FM / 97.3 KKRC logo
Get our free mobile app

Rapid City: The Fastest Growing City in South Dakota

Dakota News Now
Dakota News Now
loading...

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Rapid City is the fastest-growing city in the Midwest for the second year running:

Rapid City, SD – The US Census Bureau has released its Annual City and Town Population totals. Rapid City was the 54th fastest-growing city in 2022, and retained its spot as the fastest-growing community in the Midwest. From July 1, 2021 to July 1, 2022 Rapid City grew by 2.74%, six-times the national average of 0.4%. Rapid City is growing faster than Billings, Montana; Madison, Wisconsin; Fargo, North Dakota; and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

-Elevate Rapid City Website

Rapid City is now closing in on 80,000 people, according to the latest Census Bureau information. And while population growth can mean an increase in crime and cost of living expenses, Rapid is still consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the entire U.S.

The only objection I would make is that, in my opinion, Rapid City isn't exactly considered a city in the Midwest. But, otherwise, it's a fantastic place to live and visit and will only continue to see bigger growth in the decades to come.

To learn more about what makes Rapid such a great place to call home, check out the YouTube video below.

Story Source: Dakota Institute Website, Elevate Rapid City Website

LOOK: 10 Reasons to Visit the South Dakota Badlands

Returning from a weekend trip to Rapid City, South Dakota for state basketball tournaments we decided to visit the Badlands National Park.

A quick turn-off I-90 will take you into some of the most awe-inspiring scenery.

It's also fun to note that several big-screen movies were filmed in the Badlands. Dances With Wolves, Starship Troopers, Armageddon, and most recently, Academy Award winner, Nomadland.

It's a spectacular park with tons to do. If you're setting out on a hike, bring lots of water and sign the hikers' logs at the trailheads. It could save your life. It's a tough place to survive.

Here are 10 facts about the Badlands:

More From KKRC-FM / 97.3 KKRC