This South Dakota County is One of the Least Populated in the 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.

Get our free mobile app

Where is South Dakota's Least Populated County?

Credit: Google Maps

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

TRENDING FROM RESULTS-TOWNSQUARE MEDIA SIOUX FALLS

10 Smallest Towns in South Dakota

South Dakota is loaded with small towns in every corner of the state. But where are the tiniest towns in the Mount Rushmore state?

According to the latest census data, here are the ten smallest towns in all of South Dakota. You won't believe which tiny town lands at number one.

Source: World Population Review

The Oldest Wood-Framed Church In Sioux Falls

Saint Joseph Cathedral at 521 N Duluth Ave in Sioux Falls was founded in 1915. But that's not the oldest church in the city. The Beaver Creek Lutheran Church at Heritage Park on the Augustana College campus at 33rd & S. Prairie Ave. was built in 1892, making it the oldest wood-framed church in Sioux Falls.

Pam Cole Executive Director of the Nordland Heritage Foundation says there are some exciting events and future plans involving Heritage Park. Tours of this wonderful look into the prairie past are available Wed. - Sat. from 10 am to 3 pm and by appointment.