VIEWPOINT | Pierre must reverse population decline to vitalize

New vision, marketing needed to attract younger workers and industry

Sunset over the Missouri River from La Framboise Island in Pierre. (Austin Goss/The Dakota Scout)

The city of Pierre has a problem — it's shrinking. Recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau reveals that among South Dakota’s 20 largest cities, none are losing population faster than Pierre. Hughes County specifically saw nearly a full percent of its population vanish between 2020 and 2023, adding up to over 100 people.

This decline is more than just a statistic; it's a signal that immediate action is needed. The shrinking population affects everything from local businesses to schools, and if left unaddressed, could spiral into Pierre eventually becoming a ghost town.

Pierre has traditionally been the epicenter for South Dakota state government jobs. But recently, state government leadership has noticed this downward trend and began relocating state jobs from the capital city to larger communities like Rapid City and Sioux Falls. For a city that heavily relies on state government employment, this shift could be devastating. However, all hope is not lost. With the right strategies, Pierre can reverse this trend and ensure a vibrant future for its residents.

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