Rapid City

Gateway to the Black Hills, featuring a vibrant mix of outdoor adventures and urban comforts.

Welcome to Rapid City

Gateway to the Black Hills, featuring a vibrant mix of outdoor adventures and urban comforts.

Rapid City is the largest city in the Black Hills region, serving as the crucial gateway to monumental landscapes and a thriving hub of culture and community. Known colloquially as the "City of Presidents," it’s distinguished by life-size bronze statues of U.S. presidents that adorn its streets, adding a unique historical touch to its bustling downtown area. As the cultural and economic center of western South Dakota, Rapid City offers a blend of small-town charm and city conveniences, with the Black Hills providing a stunning backdrop.

Residents enjoy a mix of modern amenities and natural beauty right at their doorstep. The city hosts a range of annual events and festivals that celebrate its rich history and diverse cultures, from Native American gatherings to arts and music festivals. The downtown area pulses with energy, featuring an array of shops, galleries, and restaurants, while the surrounding landscapes invite endless outdoor activities.

What to Love

  • Vibrant arts and culture scene
  • Immediate proximity to natural wonders
  • Rich historical heritage
  • Thriving downtown with unique shops and eateries
  • Strong sense of community

Local Lifestyle

Living in Rapid City means embracing a lifestyle where adventure meets tranquility. Residents can easily transition from a day at the office to hiking, biking, or fishing in the nearby Black Hills. The community is closely-knit, with locals supporting local businesses and gathering at popular spots like Main Street Square for various public events. The city's lifestyle is further enriched by its educational institutions and healthcare facilities, making it an appealing place for young professionals and retirees.

Dining and Shopping

Rapid City's dining scene is a delightful fusion of classic American flavors and international cuisine. At Thai Thai Restaurant, diners can indulge in authentic Thai dishes that bring a taste of Southeast Asia to the Midwest. For those seeking a more traditional dining experience, Tally's Silver Spoon offers fine diner classics with a modern twist, making it a local favorite for breakfast and lunch. On the sweeter side, Mary's Mountain Cookies Rapid City provides a tempting array of freshly baked cookies that are perfect for a quick treat while strolling through the city's vibrant streets.

Shopping in Rapid City combines the convenience of large department stores with the charm of local boutiques. Harriet & Oak is a popular store where residents can find specialty coffee and unique gifts and crafts made by local artisans. Meanwhile, The Marina at Sheridan Lake provides outdoor enthusiasts with all the necessary gear for a day on the lake. The city’s shopping options cater to a wide range of tastes and needs, ensuring that everyone finds something to love.
 

Things to Do

For outdoor lovers, Rapid City offers an abundance of activities. Pactola Lake and The Marina at Sheridan Lake are prime boating, fishing, and watersports locations, offering beautiful vistas and plenty of recreational opportunities. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy the Stratobowl Rim Trailhead, which provides breathtaking views of the Black Hills landscape.

Culturally, the city thrives with its museums and historical sites. Storybook Island is a magical place for families, bringing children's stories to life through fun exhibits and play areas. The South Dakota School of Mines & Technology often hosts educational events and exhibits that appeal to science and technology enthusiasts, making it a valuable resource for the community.

Schools

Rapid City is home to excellent educational institutions that cater to a broad spectrum of academic and extracurricular interests. The area boasts a range of public and private schools that provide quality education, from elementary to higher education. The presence of the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, a renowned university, highlights the city’s commitment to advancing science and engineering education, benefiting local students and attracting a global student body.

Overview for Rapid City, SD

73,942 people live in Rapid City, where the median age is 38.1 and the average individual income is $34,916. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

73,942

Total Population

38.1 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$34,916

Average individual Income

Around Rapid City, SD

There's plenty to do around Rapid City, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

39
Car-Dependent
Walking Score
35
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Every Day Jakes, Ramen Satto, and 7 Brew Coffee.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 0.85 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 2.16 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 1.76 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 0.65 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 0.57 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining · $$ 0.61 miles 33 reviews 4.9/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Rapid City, SD

Rapid City has 30,737 households, with an average household size of 2.29. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Rapid City do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 73,942 people call Rapid City home. The population density is 1,351.3 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

73,942

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

38.1

Median Age

50.42 / 49.58%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
30,737

Total Households

2.29

Average Household Size

$34,916

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Rapid City, SD

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Rapid City. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating

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