Population
According to the Wikipedia page for Sioux City, the population was 82,684 as of the 2010 census, making it the fourth largest city in Iowa. The metro population, including neighboring cities in Nebraska and South Dakota, totals 168,825. Sioux City is considered part of the Siouxland tri-state region.
Sioux City’s population peaked in the 1960 census at 89,159 residents. Since then, it has gradually declined. However, recent estimates show the population increasing again to around 84,000 as of 2018.
Economy and Major Employers
Historically, Sioux City’s economy relied heavily on meatpacking and agriculture. While these industries are still important, the economy has diversified. Today, major employers in Sioux City include:
- UnityPoint Health – healthcare network
- MidAmerican Energy – public utility company
- Smithfield Foods – pork processing plants
- Sioux City Community School District – public schools
- City of Sioux City – municipal government
- MercyOne Siouxland Medical Center – hospital
Other major industries include education, construction, retail, entertainment, transportation, and manufacturing. Large companies headquartered in Sioux City include Palmer Candy Company, Winnebago Industries, Beef Products Inc, and Bomgaars.
In recent years, Sioux City has also developed a growing financial sector and emerging technology industry. The city has worked to revitalize downtown and local amenities to attract new residents and businesses.
Points of Interest and Tourism
Some of the most popular attractions and landmarks in Sioux City include:
- Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center – museum about explorers Lewis & Clark
- Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – casino and hotel with live entertainment
- Orpheum Theater – historic live performance theater
- Grandview Park – large public park with hiking trails
- Sioux City Public Museum – local history museum
- Siouxland Freedom Park – memorial for human trafficking victims
- Sioux City Farmers Market – weekly outdoor farmers market
For sports fans, Sioux City is home to the Sioux City Explorers independent minor league baseball team. The Explorers play at Mercy Field.
Popular events that attract tourists include the Siouxland Heritage Museums Elvis Festival, Saturday in the Park music festival, Siouxland Renaissance Festival, and the Sioux City Symphony concerts.
Conclusion
Sioux City has a rich history and economy rooted in agriculture and meatpacking, while also developing diverse industries in recent decades. Popular attractions range from museums and parks to theaters and casinos. The city offers a variety of events and tourist activities for visitors to enjoy throughout the year.