When looking at a map of the United States, it’s easy to get a general idea of where each state is located. But geography questions like “Which state is directly below North Dakota?” can still stump many people, especially those unfamiliar with the American Midwest and Great Plains regions. Whether you’re a student studying U.S. geography, a traveler planning a cross-country road trip, or someone just curious about the map, understanding the layout of the U.S. states is both useful and interesting.

North Dakota is known for its wide plains, rich agricultural history, and cold winters. It sits in the northern central part of the United States, sharing a border with Canada. But what lies directly below this state? The answer might seem simple, but there’s more to learn about the region than just naming a neighboring state.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into U.S. geography, particularly focusing on North Dakota and its southern neighbor. We’ll not only answer the question directly but also explore geographical, cultural, and historical insights about both states. By the end, you’ll know much more than just which state is below North Dakota—you’ll understand why these states are important and what makes them unique.

Which State Is Directly Below North Dakota?

Quick Answer: Which State Is Directly Below North Dakota?

The state directly below North Dakota is South Dakota.

Yes, the name gives it away, but there’s much more to the relationship between these two states than a directional label. South Dakota and North Dakota share more than just a border—they share history, culture, landscapes, and more. Keep reading to explore the depth of their connection and how their locations impact life in each state.

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A Deeper Look at North Dakota

Geographic Overview

North Dakota is a Midwestern state that borders Canada to the north, Minnesota to the east, Montana to the west, and South Dakota to the south. It spans roughly 70,700 square miles and is one of the least densely populated states in the U.S.

Major Cities in North Dakota

• Fargo – The largest city, located near the Minnesota border.

• Bismarck – The state capital, situated in the central part.

• Grand Forks – A key city in the northeastern corner.

• Minot – Known for its Air Force base and cultural festivals.

Key Industries

• Agriculture – Wheat, barley, sunflowers, and soybeans.

• Oil and Gas – The Bakken shale formation has made the state a key energy player.

• Manufacturing and Technology – Particularly in Fargo.

Climate

North Dakota experiences harsh winters, with temperatures often dropping below zero, and mild to warm summers. Snowfall is common, and the growing season is relatively short.

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Exploring South Dakota – The Southern Neighbor

Geographic Location

South Dakota lies directly south of North Dakota and is part of both the Midwest and the Great Plains regions. Its eastern side is more populated and fertile, while the western half includes rugged terrain like the Black Hills and Badlands.

Major Cities in South Dakota

• Sioux Falls – The largest city, known for its economic growth.

• Rapid City – A gateway to Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills.

• Pierre – The state capital, centrally located.

Key Attractions

• Mount Rushmore National Memorial

• Badlands National Park

• Custer State Park

• Crazy Horse Memorial

Economy

South Dakota’s economy is based on:

• Agriculture – Corn, soybeans, cattle, and hogs.

• Tourism – Fueled by natural wonders and historic sites.

• Financial Services and Banking

• Mining – Especially in the Black Hills region.

Climate

South Dakota experiences four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, but the summers are generally warm and ideal for travel.

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Shared History: North Dakota and South Dakota

Territorial Beginnings

Both North and South Dakota were part of the Dakota Territory, which was established in 1861. This territory included areas that are now parts of Montana and Wyoming. The territory was eventually divided as populations grew and political lines were redrawn.

Statehood

Both states joined the Union on November 2, 1889. President Benjamin Harrison signed the statehood documents for North Dakota and South Dakota on the same day, but the order was shuffled so that no one knows which document he signed first. This was done to treat both states equally, avoiding rivalry over seniority.

Native American Influence

The Dakota people, a branch of the Sioux Nation, inspired the names of both states. Many reservations and tribal communities still exist today in both North and South Dakota, preserving their cultural heritage.

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Transportation and Travel Between the Two States

Major Highways

• Interstate 29 (I-29) – Runs north-south along the eastern edge of both states, connecting cities like Fargo and Sioux Falls.

• Interstate 94 (I-94) – Travels east-west across North Dakota.

• Interstate 90 (I-90) – Travels east-west across South Dakota.

Regional Airports

• Hector International Airport (Fargo, ND)

• Bismarck Airport (Bismarck, ND)

• Sioux Falls Regional Airport (Sioux Falls, SD)

• Rapid City Regional Airport (Rapid City, SD)

Travel Tips

• Expect wide, open spaces—gas stations can be far apart.

• Winter driving can be dangerous; plan accordingly.

• Cell service is generally good along interstates but may drop in rural or mountainous areas.

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Cultural Similarities and Differences

Shared Culture

• Strong Midwestern values: humility, hard work, and community.

• Popular for hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities.

• Both have deep-rooted Native American history.

• Conservative political leanings in general.

Distinct Differences

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Educational Institutions

North Dakota

• University of North Dakota (Grand Forks)

• North Dakota State University (Fargo)

South Dakota

• University of South Dakota (Vermillion)

• South Dakota State University (Brookings)

These institutions often collaborate and share research efforts, especially in agriculture and climate science.

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Environmental Landscape Comparison

North Dakota

• Flat plains and prairies

• Small rolling hills

• Wetlands in the east

South Dakota

• Grasslands and plains in the east

• Black Hills in the west

• Dramatic formations in Badlands National Park

Both states are part of the Great Plains, offering unique biodiversity, especially for birdwatching and wildlife enthusiasts.

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Which State Is Directly Below North Dakota? (FAQs)

1. Which state borders North Dakota to the south?

South Dakota borders North Dakota directly to the south.

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2. Are North and South Dakota similar in climate?

Yes, both states experience cold winters and warm summers, but South Dakota tends to be slightly warmer and drier overall, especially in the western half.

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3. Why were North and South Dakota split into two states?

The split occurred for political and logistical reasons. As the Dakota Territory grew in population, it became difficult to govern as one unit. Creating two states helped balance representation in Congress.

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4. Which is more populous: North Dakota or South Dakota?

South Dakota has a slightly larger population than North Dakota, with Sioux Falls being a major urban hub.

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5. What are some attractions near the North Dakota-South Dakota border?

• Lake Oahe – A large reservoir that straddles the border.

• Standing Rock Sioux Reservation – Spanning both states.

• Missouri River Scenic Byway

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6. Can you drive directly from North Dakota to South Dakota?

Yes, many highways cross the border, including I-29 and U.S. Route 83, making it easy to travel between the two states.

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7. Are North Dakota and South Dakota considered Midwest or West?

Geographically, both are part of the Midwest, although culturally and climatically they share traits with the Great Plains and even the Mountain West in parts of South Dakota.

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Conclusion

Knowing that South Dakota is directly below North Dakota might seem like a straightforward piece of information, but understanding their relationship goes much deeper. These two states share a rich history, cultural roots, and geographical continuity that define the American Midwest and Great Plains. From historical figures to national parks, both North and South Dakota offer unique experiences that complement each other.

Whether you’re planning a trip, researching for school, or simply curious, exploring the connection between these two states broadens your knowledge of U.S. geography and history. So next time someone asks you what lies below North Dakota, you can confidently say South Dakota—and tell them why it matters.

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