Population Update Report Number 5

South Dakota\u27s population on April 1, 1980, was 690,768. This is an increase of 24,511 people or 3.8% from the 666,257 in 1970. The growth rate of 3.8% for 1970-1980 ranks South Dakota sixth in the rate of increase for seven neighboring states (Table 1). The growth rates of Montana (13%) and especially Wyoming (42%), fourth highest in the nation, are particularly significant in that they are larger than the U.S. total growth of 11%. They reflect a tremendous growth due to utilization of natural resources. The surrounding farm belt states experienced the slower growth rate evident throughout the agriculturally based midwest regio