General Information
Phone Numbers
605-923-1404
Community Profile
Overview
Box Elder is a thriving and rapidly growing community in western South Dakota, just outside Rapid City. Known as the “Gateway to the Black Hills,” Box Elder offers the perfect balance of small-town quality of life with access to regional amenities, making it an attractive location for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
Location & Accessibility
- Direct access to Interstate 90, a major east–west corridor
- Adjacent to Ellsworth Air Force Base, a key regional employer
- Minutes from Rapid City Regional Airport
- Gateway to Mount Rushmore, Badlands, and Black Hills National Forest
Population & Growth
- One of the fastest-growing communities in South Dakota
- Population more than doubled in the past two decades
- Young, diverse, and family-oriented residents
- Strong demand for new housing and services
Economy & Workforce
- Driven by Ellsworth Air Force Base and regional demand
- Part of the Rapid City metro labor market
- Pro-business climate with low taxes
- Opportunities in retail, hospitality, manufacturing, and tech
Development Opportunities
- Commercial Growth: demand for retail, dining, and entertainment
- Industrial & Logistics: land near I-90 ideal for growth
- Residential Expansion: subdivisions and multi-family projects
- Tourism & Hospitality: hotel and dining opportunities near attractions
Quality of Life
Box Elder combines affordability, community, and access to world-class outdoor recreation. With strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and welcoming parks, the city provides a high quality of life for residents and newcomers alike.
- Affordable housing with a growing variety of options
- Strong schools and educational resources
- Family-friendly parks and recreational opportunities
- Safe, welcoming, and community-driven atmosphere
