Introduction: South Dakota Download PDF

South Dakota is located in the north-central United States.  South Dakota’s economy is centered on agriculture due to its fertile soils and abundant grazing lands.  Ranches and farms cover over ninety percent of the state, making farming a central way of life for residents.  

Railroad construction and gold mining during the 1870s gold rush sparked important growth for South Dakota’s economy. Gambling and tourism have recently increased in importance.  Among the more popular destinations are the Badlands and the Black Hills, which features Mount Rushmore, an important symbol of American pride. South Dakota is also recognized as one of the friendliest states for businesses.  South Dakota doesn't tax personal income, capital gains, corporate income or corporate capital gains. In addition, there is little crime, and energy costs are relatively low.

Abbreviation: SD 
Capital: Pierre 
Nick Name Mount Rushmore State 
State Web Site: http://www.state.sd.us 
Motto: Under God, the people rule 

Government

Governor: Mike Rounds
Treasurer: Vernon L. Larson
Senator: Tim Johnson
Senator: John R. Thune
Entered Union: 11/2/1889
U.S. Reps: 1

Symbols

Flower: Pasque Flower
Bird: Ring-necked Pheasant
State Seal:
State Quarter:

Time Zones:

Standard Time GMT-6
Daylight-Saving Time GMT-5

Statistics

Per Capita Real GDP :
$35,596
Population:
804,194
Percent of People Under Poverty Level:
13.6%
Per Capita Personal Income:
$33,929
Percent of Population with a Bachelor's Degree:
17.5%
Total Exports:
$1,506,430,000

Top 5 Export Partner Countries
Canada
Mexico
China
Hong Kong
United Kingdom

Top 5 Export Merchandise
Machinery Sales
Computers and Electronic Products Sales
Computers and Electronic Products Manufacturing
Electrical Equipment Manufacturing
Machinery Manufacturing

Major Cities

Major Airports

  Airport Name City
FSD Joe Foss Field Sioux Falls

Main Ports:

None

U.S. Commercial Service

Sioux Falls - Cinnamon King, Director
Augustana College, 2001 S. Summit Avenue
Madsen Center, Room 122
Sioux Falls, SD 57197
Ph: (605) 330-4264
Fax: (605) 330-4266