Cities and Towns in Union County, South Dakota
Founded in 1862, Union County is one of 66 counties in the state of South Dakota. Historically, Union County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Elk Point is the county seat. With FIPS code of 127, Union County has a population of 16,872 and area of 460 square miles (1,191 km²).
List of all cities in Union County, SD alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alcester, SD | 57001 | 605 |
| Alsen, SD | 57004 | 605 |
| Beresford, SD | 57004 | 605 |
| Big Springs, SD | 57001 | 605 |
| Dakota Dunes, SD | 57049 | 605 |
| Elk Point, SD | 57025 | 605 |
| Emmet, SD | 57004 | 605 |
| Jefferson, SD | 57038 | 605 |
| Junction City, SD | 57025 | 605 |
| McCook Lake, SD | 57049 | 605 |
| Nora, SD | 57001 | 605 |
| North Sioux City, SD | 57049 | 605 |
| Richland, SD | 57025 | 605 |
| Spink, SD | 57025 | 605 |
Major Cities and Towns in Union County, South Dakota
Elk Point, South Dakota
Location and History
Elk Point, the county seat of Union County, is located in the southeastern corner of South Dakota, near the Missouri River and about 15 miles south of Sioux City, Iowa. The town was founded in 1857 and is one of the oldest cities in the state. Originally settled by European pioneers, Elk Point was named after the “elk” that roamed the region, which was a prominent feature of the area’s wildlife. As a vital trading post and agricultural hub, Elk Point thrived during the late 19th century. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s helped cement the town as a key transportation and commerce center. Elk Point was a stop along the military and emigrant trails, connecting the east to the western frontier. Over the years, the town has maintained its agricultural roots while developing into a quiet, rural community. Today, Elk Point is known for its picturesque landscapes, proximity to the Missouri River, and small-town charm, serving as a residential and commercial center for Union County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elk Point is served by the Elk Point-Jefferson School District, which includes Elk Point-Jefferson High School and several elementary schools. The district offers a range of educational programs, sports teams, and extracurricular activities for students. Major landmarks in Elk Point include the Union County Courthouse, a beautiful structure that reflects the town’s historical significance. Other key sites include the historic Old Main building, once part of the St. Paul’s College, which adds a historic dimension to the city’s architectural character. Elk Point is also home to several local parks, including the Elk Point City Park, where residents enjoy outdoor activities such as picnicking and sports. The town’s location near the Missouri River offers scenic views and recreational opportunities, including boating and fishing. Elk Point is a short drive from the Lewis and Clark Lake, which is part of the Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, popular for hiking, camping, and water sports.
Key Statistics
- Area: 1.0 square miles
- Population: 2,000 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57025
- Latitude: 42.6790° N
- Longitude: 96.5300° W
Jefferson, South Dakota
Location and History
Jefferson is a small town located in the southwestern corner of Union County, South Dakota, approximately 10 miles north of the Missouri River and 15 miles south of Sioux City, Iowa. Jefferson was established in the mid-1800s and is one of the older settlements in the county. The town was originally founded as a farming community, with settlers attracted by the fertile soil and proximity to the river for trade. Over the years, Jefferson became a small but bustling agricultural hub, with corn, soybeans, and livestock forming the backbone of the local economy. While the town has always maintained a rural identity, it has also served as a local center for the surrounding farming communities, providing essential services and a sense of community. In the 20th century, Jefferson’s population began to decline as many young people moved to larger cities in search of work, but the town still retains its small-town charm and agricultural focus today.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Jefferson is served by the Jefferson School District, which includes the Jefferson High School and Jefferson Elementary School. The district offers a variety of academic programs, sports, and extracurricular activities. Major landmarks in Jefferson include the Jefferson City Park, which provides recreational space for residents with playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. Jefferson is also home to several small businesses, local restaurants, and churches, which are central to the town’s social life. One of the town’s highlights is the nearby Missouri River, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and outdoor activities. Jefferson’s proximity to both the river and the city of Sioux City, Iowa, makes it a prime location for those seeking a quiet rural lifestyle while remaining close to urban amenities. The surrounding farmlands provide scenic views, with the wide-open spaces offering both tranquility and a connection to the area’s agricultural heritage.
Key Statistics
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: 600 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57038
- Latitude: 42.5779° N
- Longitude: 96.4436° W
Dakota Dunes, South Dakota
Location and History
Dakota Dunes is a planned community located in the southeastern part of Union County, South Dakota, adjacent to Sioux City, Iowa. Situated along the Missouri River, Dakota Dunes was developed in the late 1980s as a master-planned residential community. The area was chosen for its scenic views of the river, its proximity to both Sioux City and the Iowa-South Dakota state line, and its potential for development into an upscale neighborhood. Unlike most small towns in South Dakota, Dakota Dunes was designed with modern amenities and infrastructure from the outset, aiming to provide a suburban lifestyle with easy access to urban resources. The community has grown steadily over the years, attracting professionals and families who appreciate its peaceful environment while being close to the bustling Sioux City metropolitan area. Dakota Dunes is known for its picturesque homes, golf courses, and recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dakota Dunes is part of the Sioux City School District in Iowa, so children attend schools in nearby Sioux City, including North High School and East High School. Dakota Dunes has its own community center, which hosts social events and serves as a gathering place for residents. The community is also home to the Dakota Dunes Country Club, which offers a golf course, tennis courts, and a clubhouse, making it a central landmark in the town. The Missouri River is another key attraction, providing recreational opportunities such as boating and fishing. Dakota Dunes is also located near the scenic Lewis and Clark Park, which offers hiking trails, picnicking areas, and views of the river, as well as being part of a larger network of parks that stretches into Sioux City. The well-maintained streets, manicured lawns, and upscale homes create a distinct suburban environment, with local parks and open spaces adding to the town’s charm.
Key Statistics
- Area: 3.4 square miles
- Population: 2,000 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57049
- Latitude: 42.4772° N
- Longitude: 96.4350° W
North Sioux City, South Dakota
Location and History
North Sioux City is located in the northeastern corner of Union County, South Dakota, directly adjacent to Sioux City, Iowa, just across the Missouri River. The town was founded in the early 20th century as a residential and industrial community, taking advantage of its proximity to Sioux City for both employment and commerce. North Sioux City’s development was further spurred by its location near major highways and the construction of a bridge across the Missouri River, which connected it directly to Sioux City. Over the years, the town has seen growth in both its population and its commercial sector, and it remains a suburb of Sioux City. North Sioux City has retained much of its small-town charm while benefiting from its access to the larger metropolitan area of Sioux City, making it an attractive location for those looking for a quieter, suburban lifestyle with urban amenities nearby.
Major Schools and Landmarks
North Sioux City is served by the Dakota Valley School District, which includes Dakota Valley High School, Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district offers strong academic programs, athletics, and extracurricular activities. Key landmarks in North Sioux City include the North Sioux City Community Center, which serves as a hub for social events and community gatherings, as well as several local parks and sports complexes. The Missouri River, which forms the western boundary of the town, offers opportunities for water activities, including fishing, boating, and birdwatching. The nearby Lewis and Clark Interpretive Trail provides both historical education and outdoor recreation, commemorating the famous explorers’ journey through the area. North Sioux City’s proximity to Sioux City also provides residents with access to museums, cultural centers, and other urban amenities while enjoying the peaceful environment of a smaller town.
Key Statistics
- Area: 2.4 square miles
- Population: 2,500 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 57049
- Latitude: 42.5054° N
- Longitude: 96.4583° W
