Yes, Sioux Falls is bigger than Fargo, both in terms of city population and metropolitan area population.
When comparing the size of cities, it's essential to consider both the population within the city limits and the broader metropolitan area, which includes surrounding suburbs and communities closely tied to the urban center. By both measures, Sioux Falls currently holds the larger population.
Population Comparison: Sioux Falls vs. Fargo
To understand the difference, let's look at the latest population figures for both cities and their respective metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs):
| Area Type | Sioux Falls, SD Population | Fargo, ND Population |
|---|---|---|
| City Population | 165,974 | 113,658 |
| Metro Population | 243,721 | 233,736 |
Data as of recent estimates, reflecting the close but distinct sizes of these regional hubs.
As the table clearly illustrates:
- Within City Limits: Sioux Falls has a significantly larger population, boasting over 165,000 residents compared to Fargo's approximately 113,000. This indicates a larger urban footprint within the official city boundaries for Sioux Falls.
- Metropolitan Area: The Sioux Falls metropolitan area also edges out Fargo's, with over 243,000 residents compared to Fargo's approximately 233,000. This encompasses the broader economic and social reach of each city, including surrounding suburbs and towns that comprise the larger urban region.
Factors Contributing to Growth
Both Sioux Falls and Fargo are important economic and cultural centers in the Upper Midwest, experiencing significant growth in recent decades. Their downtown areas, for instance, have seen similar booms, attracting new businesses and residents. However, Sioux Falls has historically maintained a larger population base.
Factors contributing to the size and growth of these cities often include:
- Economic Diversification: Sioux Falls benefits from a strong financial services sector, healthcare industry, and retail trade, acting as a regional hub for a wide area.
- Geographic Location: Its position in southeastern South Dakota provides a central location for commerce and services for a large rural and urban population.
- Quality of Life: Both cities are frequently recognized for their high quality of life, affordable living, and strong job markets, which continue to attract new residents.
While both cities are dynamic and growing, current population data confirms that Sioux Falls is the larger of the two.
