Isolated South Dakota County is One of the Least Populated in U.S.

If you've done any length of traveling through the Mount Rushmore State, you know how barren some stretches can be.

One South Dakota county (between Mitchell and Rapid City) takes the crown for being one of the least populated in the entire United States. But that wasn't always the case.

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Where is South Dakota's Least Populated County?

Jones County, smack dab in the middle of the state, is not only the least populated in South Dakota, but it also has one of the smallest populations of any county in the United States. The current population of Jones County is estimated it just 917 people, according to the 2020 census. The county seat of Murdo is where most of the residents are located, with a population of 488.

Although the population of Jones County has declined over the decades, it was once a bustling area in South Dakota, as Murdo was an important stop for the Pacific Railroad in the early 20th century.

Here's a look at the ten smallest counties nationwide:

Grant County, Nebraska: Population 623

Yakutat Borough, Alaska: Population 579

McPherson County, Nebraska: Population 494

Petroleum County, Montana: Population 487

Blaine County, Nebraska: Population 465

Arthur County, Nebraska: Population 463

Kenedy County, Texas: Population 404

King County, Texas: Population 272

Loving County, Texas: Population 169

Kalawao County, Hawaii: Population 86

As you can see, the state of Nebraska holds the most counties on the list. But is that a bad thing? Some people enjoy the solitude that a county of such few people can bring.

Story Source: World Atlas Website