The Labeled Map of South Dakota helps you locate the state capital, major cities, neighboring states, and important geographic features. This guide includes labeled map images and printable PDF versions for students, teachers, travelers, and anyone studying the geography of the United States.
South Dakota is located in the north-central United States, within the Great Plains and Midwest region. Its capital is Pierre, while Sioux Falls is its largest city by population. A labeled map makes it easier to identify cities, understand state boundaries, and plan routes across the region.
Use the map images and PDF links below for quick reference, classroom activities, geography projects, or personal study.
Labeled Map of South Dakota
The labeled map provides a visual overview of South Dakota and helps readers identify the state’s location, cities, and surrounding geography. Depending on the map version, it may also show highways, rivers, lakes, and other geographic features.
South Dakota shares borders with six states: North Dakota to the north, Minnesota to the east, Iowa to the southeast, Nebraska to the south, Wyoming to the west, and Montana to the northwest. These neighboring states are useful reference points when studying the region.
South Dakota became a state on November 2, 1889. The area was part of the Louisiana Purchase of 1803, through which the United States acquired a large territory from France.
South Dakota Map with State Borders (Printable)
A South Dakota map with state borders helps readers understand the state’s position in the northern Great Plains. It is especially useful for geography lessons, school assignments, regional travel planning, and comparing neighboring states.
South Dakota has 66 counties. County boundaries and city locations are different types of geographic information, so check the map legend to confirm which details are displayed on a particular map.
For official county boundaries and geographic reference data, consult the U.S. Census Bureau’s geographic resources.
Labeled Map of South Dakota with Cities
A labeled map of South Dakota with cities helps readers locate major population centers and understand how communities are distributed throughout the state.
The following population figures are from the 2020 U.S. Census and provide a consistent, official comparison of selected cities:
| City | 2020 Census population |
|---|---|
| Sioux Falls | 192,517 |
| Rapid City | 74,703 |
| Aberdeen | 28,495 |
| Brookings | 23,377 |
| Watertown | 22,655 |
| Pierre | 14,091 |
Sioux Falls was the most populous city in South Dakota in the 2020 Census, followed by Rapid City. Aberdeen, Brookings, and Watertown are other important population centers.
Population figures change over time. For the latest estimates, consult the U.S. Census Bureau’s QuickFacts pages rather than relying on older map captions or historical population data.
Labeled South Dakota Map with Capital
Pierre is the capital of South Dakota and is located in Hughes County, near the Missouri River. The city serves as the seat of state government and is home to the South Dakota State Capitol.
Pierre is not the state’s largest city. Sioux Falls has a substantially larger population, but Pierre remains the political and administrative center because the state government is based there.
Visitors interested in state history and government can explore the State Capitol and nearby cultural attractions. Check official visitor information before planning a visit, as opening hours and tour arrangements may change.
South Dakota Map: Quick Facts
Use these facts alongside the labeled map to understand South Dakota’s location and basic geography.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| State capital | Pierre |
| Largest city by 2020 Census population | Sioux Falls |
| Statehood date | November 2, 1889 |
| Number of counties | 66 |
| 2020 Census population | 886,667 |
| 2025 population estimate | 935,094 |
| Region | Great Plains and north-central United States |
| Neighboring states | North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Montana |
| Major river | Missouri River |
The 2020 population is from the decennial census, while the 2025 figure is the Census Bureau’s July 1, 2025 population estimate. These figures come from different statistical releases and should be identified by year when reused.
Geography and Major Rivers of South Dakota
The Missouri River is one of the most prominent geographic features associated with South Dakota. It runs through the state and forms portions of its boundary with Nebraska. The river and its reservoirs are important features of the state’s landscape and recreation areas.
South Dakota’s geography includes broad plains, agricultural landscapes, river valleys, and the Black Hills in the western part of the state. These features make a labeled map useful for understanding the differences between eastern and western South Dakota.
When studying physical geography, use a physical map or a map that explicitly labels rivers, lakes, and elevation features. A political map may focus primarily on state and county boundaries instead.
How to Use a Printable South Dakota Map
A printable South Dakota map can be helpful for:
- Students and teachers: Identify the capital, major cities, neighboring states, and rivers.
- Travel planning: Understand the relative locations of cities and major routes before a trip.
- Geography projects: Compare political boundaries with physical features.
- Research and reference: Use city labels and state borders to support reports and presentations.
- Classroom activities: Print a blank or labeled map for geography exercises.
For the clearest results, select a PDF when you want to print the map. Check the map’s labels and legend before using it for a school assignment or formal reference, and verify time-sensitive information with an official source.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the capital of South Dakota?
Pierre is the capital of South Dakota. It is located in Hughes County, near the Missouri River.
2. What is the largest city in South Dakota?
Sioux Falls is the largest city by population. The 2020 U.S. Census recorded 192,517 residents in Sioux Falls.
3. How many counties are in South Dakota?
South Dakota has 66 counties.
4. Which states border South Dakota?
South Dakota borders North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Montana.
5. Where can I download a printable South Dakota map?
You can use the PNG map links and PDF download links provided in the sections above. PDFs are generally convenient for printing, while PNG images are useful for viewing or adding to presentations.
6. What is the population of South Dakota?
The 2020 Census recorded 886,667 residents. The U.S. Census Bureau estimated the population at 935,094 on July 1, 2025. Always include the reference year when quoting a population figure.
7. Which river is an important geographic feature in South Dakota?
The Missouri River is a major river associated with the state. It is a useful feature to locate when studying South Dakota’s physical geography.
8. When did South Dakota become a state?
South Dakota became a state on November 2, 1889.
Reference links
https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/SD/POP815224
https://data.census.gov/profile/South_Dakota?g=040XX00US46
https://sdsos.gov/general-information/about-state-south-dakota/default.aspx
