Lincoln County, South Dakota

I-229

SD_17

Lincoln County is a county located in the U.S. state of South Dakota. As of the 2020 census, the population was 65,161, making it one of the fastest-growing counties in the state. The county seat is Canton, and the largest city is Sioux Falls.

History

Lincoln County was created on December 30, 1867, and was named after Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. The county has a rich history tied to the early settlement of the Dakota Territory and the expansion of the American frontier.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 578 square miles (1,497 km²), of which 577 square miles (1,494 km²) is land and 1.2 square miles (3.1 km²) (0.2%) is water. The Big Sioux River forms the eastern boundary of the county.

Adjacent counties

• Minnehaha County - north
• Lyon County, Iowa - east
• Sioux County, Iowa - southeast
• Union County - south
• Turner County - west

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 65,161 people, 23,000 households, and 17,000 families residing in the county. The population density was 113 people per square mile (44/km²). The racial makeup of the county was predominantly White, with small percentages of African American, Native American, Asian, and other races.

Communities

Cities

• Canton
• Harrisburg
• Lennox
• Tea
• Worthing

Towns

• Fairview
• Hudson

Census-designated places

• Shindler

Unincorporated communities

• Eden
• Highland

Government and Politics

Lincoln County is governed by a board of commissioners. The county is part of South Dakota's at-large congressional district, represented by a single member in the United States House of Representatives.

Education

The county is served by several school districts, including the Canton School District, Harrisburg School District, and Lennox School District. Higher education opportunities are available in nearby Sioux Falls.

Economy

The economy of Lincoln County is diverse, with significant contributions from agriculture, manufacturing, retail, and healthcare. The proximity to Sioux Falls has spurred residential and commercial development in the county.

Transportation

Major highways in Lincoln County include Interstate 29, Interstate 229, U.S. Route 18, and South Dakota Highway 11. The Sioux Falls Regional Airport provides air service to the region.

See also

• List of counties in South Dakota
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Lincoln County, South Dakota