About the Rapid City, South Dakota Area
 

Rapid City, South Dakota, has developed a unique character all its own. As a thriving metropolitan center of commerce surrounded by majestic scenery and wildlife, Rapid City’s enviable location encourages residents to partake of both outdoor adventure as well as urban entertainment. Rapid City is in the southwestern portion of South Dakota within easy access of Badlands National Park and close to Interstate 90, US 16 and Highways 79 and 44. It is 152 miles from the state capital of Pierre and is a part of Pennington County just east of the Wyoming state line. Rapid City’s excellent public transportation system efficiently connects the city’s 35 square miles and provides excellent service for its 62,000 inhabitants. Southwestern South Dakota residents also enjoy an easy commute with an average of 13.8 minutes, resulting in more time for leisure activities. 

Rapid City, the state’s second largest city, was founded in 1876 by John Brennan and a group of renegade gold miners. Intrigued by the promise of gold, the early visitors overlooked the Indian treaty prohibiting white settlement in the area and made Rapid City their home base. As the Black Hills Gold Rush became more pronounced, Rapid City experienced a population explosion that lead to its incorporation in 1882. Named after Rapid Creek, Rapid City has become a Mecca for outdoor lovers, sports enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys a the high quality of life offered by this diverse and energetic region. With over 27 parks, 13.5 miles of biking and jogging trails and easy access to several national parks, Rapid City residents can spend countless hours engaged in healthy outdoor fun.  

Education for the residents of Rapid City is a number one priority and it shows in both community involvement and political support. Students in the Rapid City School District rise slightly above the national average in ACT scores. School attendance is over 95% and the number of graduates who continue in their pursuit of higher learning is steadily increasing. Elementary, junior and high school student teacher ratios are excellent and constant attention is paid to classroom assistance and teacher support. In addition to public schooling, Rapid City also has several fine parochial and private schools. The Rapid City School District is the second largest in South Dakota and maintains high curriculum criteria, with many community based outside learning programs and extensive after school activities. In addition, Rapid City is home to many widely acclaimed institutes of higher learning including the National American University, South Dakota Schools of Mines and Technology and the University of South Dakota School of Medicine.  

Western South Dakota has much to offer to those who are looking for an exciting lifestyle within a safe and intimate community. Rapid City has a thriving economy and provides a welcoming environment for businesses of every size. In addition, it is in close proximity to many of the most beautiful and inspiring natural treasures within North America. Ranked as the tenth most livable state in America and the seventh safest state in the nation, South Dakota also enjoys the distinction of having the seventh lowest cost of living. Known for excellent air quality and a healthy style of living, Rapid City is second on the Healthy Cities list compiled by Organic Style magazine. The community of Rapid City enthusiastically celebrates its cultural diversity by hosting several annual festivals that showcase the unique qualities of each distinct group. Dance, music and theater all help to enhance the quality of life for the people of Southwestern Dakota, who value the special opportunities that are easily available in this beautiful and exceptional part of the country.