Brookings, SD

South Dakota · Brookings County

Brookings is a small city in South Dakota with a population of 23,710. Residents earn $61,979 per year, which is 18% below the national average.

3.6 /5.0

B+ Good

23,710 Population 1,698/sq mi density

$61,979 Median Income $31,799 per capita

$243,600 Home Value $308,760 Zillow

$862 Median Rent 24.4% income on rent

43°F Avg Temperature 276 sunny days/yr

218 Violent Crime/100K 1,273 property/100K

B+

Overall

3.6 / 5.0

Good overall score based on economy, affordability, safety and education

Economy

4.0 / 5.0

$61,979 median income, 3.0% unemployment

Affordability

4.5 / 5.0

$243,600 home value, $862/mo rent

Safety

1.0 / 5.0

218 violent crimes/100K (43% below avg)

A+

Education

5.0 / 5.0

49.7% bachelor's degree or higher

Discover Brookings, SD

Explore over 40 sections covering people, economy, housing, health, crime, climate, community, costs, trends, schools, colleges, hospitals, treatment centers, industries, museums, libraries, breweries, farmers markets, grocery stores, pharmacies, campgrounds, parks, trails, stadiums, ski resorts, daycare centers, nursing homes, churches, fire stations, cell towers, bridges, power plants, EV stations, prisons, radio stations, airports, police stations, post offices, Amtrak stations, superfund sites, UNESCO sites, and more.
Use the tabs and dropdown menus below to navigate every data point we track for this city.

Full City Profile

Median Income $61,979

18% lower than US avg

Home Value $243,600

14% lower than US avg

Violent Crime 218/100K

43% lower than US avg

Bachelor's+ 49.7%

47% higher than US avg

Median Rent $862

26% lower than US avg

Obesity Rate 40.2%

25% higher than US avg

Unemployment 3.0%

17% lower than US avg

Poverty Rate 6.0%

52% lower than US avg

How Brookings Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)

People

Population23,710

Median Age24.7 yrs

Density1,698/mi²

Male / Female50% / 50%

Largest GroupWhite 87%

Veterans4.2%

Economy

Median Income$61,979

Per Capita$31,799

Unemployment3.0%

Poverty6.0%

County GDP$3,062M

Commute12 min

Housing

Home Value$243,600

Rent$862

Ownership48.5%

Zillow$308,760

Housing Units9,715

Rent Burden24.4%

Crime

Violent218/100K

Property1,273/100K

Murder0.0/100K

Assault165/100K

Burglary113/100K

Health

Obesity40.2%

Uninsured7.8%

Smoking13.2%

Depression23.3%

Heart Disease5.6%

Climate

Avg Temp43°F (6°C)

AQI36 (Good)

Rain25.2 in/yr

Sunny Days276/yr

Elevation1,655 ft (504 m)

Education

A+

Bachelor's+49.7%

High School+96.7%

Graduate+17.7%

School Score6.18

Community

2024 VoteR 57% / D 40%

Commute12 min

Broadband89.4%

EV Stations3

Libraries2

Is Brookings a Good Place to Live?

Based on current data, Brookings receives an overall livability score of 3.6 out of 5.0, earning a grade of B+. Key strengths include low unemployment, low crime rates, a highly educated population, affordable housing. Areas to be aware of include high obesity rates. Brookings offers a solid quality of life with a good balance of affordability, safety, and opportunity.

Economy & Jobs

The median household income in Brookings is $61,979, 18% below the national average of $75,149. Unemployment stands at 3.0%, indicating a healthy job market. Only 6.0% of residents live below the poverty line, well below the national rate of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 12 minutes, shorter than most U.S. cities.

Cost of Living & Housing

The median home value in Brookings is $243,600, 14% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $862 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. A price-to-income ratio of 3.9x indicates a reasonably affordable housing market.

Safety & Crime

Violent crime in Brookings is below the national average at 218 per 100,000 residents (U.S. avg: 380). Property crime occurs at a rate of 1,273 per 100,000, 35% below the national average.

Education

Educational attainment is solid, with 49.7% holding a bachelor's degree or higher, near the national average. 96.7% have completed high school. Local schools score 6.2/10 in standardized testing, reflecting strong academic performance.

Climate & Weather

Brookings has a cool climate with an average annual temperature of 43°F. Winters average 13°F in January while summers reach 71°F in July. With 276 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 25.2 inches, including 35.8 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 36.

Brookings has a population of 23,710 with a density of 1,698 people per square mile, spread across 14.0 square miles. The median age is 24.7 years, 37% younger than the national median of 38.9. The gender split is 49.6% female and 50.4% male. The city is predominantly White (87.1%), with 2.5% Hispanic, 1.5% Black. English is the primary language spoken at home by 90.8% of residents, while 9.2% speak Spanish. 4.2% of the population are veterans, below the national rate of 6.0%. 9.7% of residents have a disability (below the 13.0% national average). 95.1% have health insurance coverage.

Population

23,710

Total Population

1,698

People / sq mi

24.7yrs

Median Age

37% below US avg

14.0mi²

Land Area

Gender Distribution

Male 50.4%

Female 49.6%

Race & Ethnicity

Brookings vs U.S. Average

Language Spoken at Home

English Only 90.8%

16% above US avg

Spanish 9.2%

31% below US avg

Social Characteristics

Brookings vs U.S. Average

The median household income in Brookings is $61,979, which is 18% below the national average of $75,149. Per capita income is $31,799 (below the $39,052 national figure). The average weekly wage is $1,096, 23% lower than the U.S. average. The unemployment rate is 3.0% (below the 3.6% US average). 6.0% of residents live below the poverty line, lower than the national rate of 12.4%. The area has 1,382 business establishments, including 89 restaurants. The cost of living index is 88.6, below the national baseline of 100 / offering relatively affordable living. Workers commute an average of 12 minutes (shorter than the 28-minute US average). 10.1% of workers work from home (below the 15.2% national rate).

Income: Brookings vs U.S.

Commute Mode

Income

Median HH Income	$61,979
	18% below US avg
Per Capita Income	$31,799
Avg Weekly Wage	$1,096
IRS Avg AGI	$85,411
Gini Index	0.405 (0=equal, 1=unequal)

Employment & Poverty

Unemployment	3.0%
	17% below US avg
Poverty Rate	6.0%
	52% below US avg
Establishments (County)	1,382
County GDP	$3,062M

Business (County)

Restaurants	89
Healthcare	101
Retail	110
Manufacturing	40

Tax & Cost of Living

Property Tax (IRS)	$5,740
	64% above US avg
Cost of Living	88.60 (100=avg)
Effective Tax Rate	2.36%

Commute & Transportation

Commute Time	11.8 min
Drive Alone	74.6%
Public Transit	0.6%
Work from Home	10.1%

Walkability

The median home value in Brookings is $243,600, 14% below the national median of $281,900. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $308,760, higher than the Census estimate. Homes sell for 99.1% of their list price. Monthly rent averages $862 (26% below the national average of $1,163). Fair market rent ranges from $781 for a one-bedroom to $953 for a two-bedroom apartment. 48.5% of housing units are owner-occupied (below the 65.4% national rate). There are 9,715 total housing units in the city. The median year a home was built is 1986. The average annual property tax is $5,740 (higher than the $3,500 national average). 24.4% of renters spend 30% or more of their income on housing. The home price-to-income ratio is 3.9x.

Home Value Sources

Ownership Split

Home Values

Census Median	$243,600
	14% below US avg
Zillow ZHVI	$308,760

Real Estate Market (Redfin)

$/Sq Ft	$211
Homes Sold	2
Sale-to-List Ratio	99.1%
Price Drops	0.0%

Rental Costs

Census Median Rent	$862
	26% below US avg
Zillow Rent (ZORI)	$1,447
Rent Burden	24.4%

HUD Fair Market Rent

Studio	$776
1 Bedroom	$781
2 Bedrooms	$953
3 Bedrooms	$1,325
4 Bedrooms	$1,599

Ownership & Property

Homeownership	48.5%
Owner-Occupied	48.5%
Renter-Occupied	51.5%
Housing Units	9,715
Median Year Built	1986

Property Tax

Avg Tax (IRS)	$5,740
	64% above US avg
Effective Rate	2.36%

In Brookings, 40.2% of adults are obese, above the national rate of 32.1%. 10.1% have diabetes. Heart disease affects 5.6% of residents. 29.2% have high blood pressure. 13.2% are current smokers. 20.4% report binge drinking. 20.6% are physically inactive, below the national average. 23.3% report depression (above the 20.0% national average). 15.5% experience frequent mental distress. 7.8% of residents lack health insurance. The primary care physician ratio is 1:1,732. The dentist ratio is 1:2,218. 85.2% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The food environment index is 7.6 out of 10.

Health Metrics: Brookings vs U.S. Average (%)

Chronic Conditions

Obesity	40.2%
	25% above US avg
Diabetes	10.1%
Heart Disease	5.6%
High Blood Pressure	29.2%
Asthma	10.0%
COPD	5.8%
Cancer	8.0%
Stroke	2.9%

Behaviors & Mental Health

Smoking	13.2%
	6% below US avg
Binge Drinking	20.4%
Physical Inactivity	20.6%
Depression	23.3%
Mental Distress	15.5%
Physical Distress	11.2%
Short Sleep	31.7%

Healthcare Access

Insurance Rate	95.1%
Uninsured	7.8%
	9% below US avg
Primary Care	1:1,732
Dentists	1:2,218
Mental Health	1:620
Checkup Rate	75.6%
Dental Visits	68.7%
Premature Death	6,178/100K

Food & Exercise

Food Environment	7.6/10
Exercise Access	85.2%
Healthcare Facilities	101

Brookings has a violent crime rate of 218 per 100,000 residents, 43% below the national average of 380. This breaks down to aggravated assault at 165.2 per 100,000, robbery at 4.0, rape at 48.3. The murder rate is 0.0 per 100,000 (below the national rate of 6.3). Property crime stands at 1,273 per 100,000, 35% below the U.S. average. This includes larceny/theft at 1,092, burglary at 113, vehicle theft at 68 per 100,000 residents. The county recorded 1 fatal traffic crashes. Overall, Brookings receives a safety grade of F.

Crime Rates: Brookings vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)

Violent Crime

Total Violent	217.5/100K
	43% below US avg
Murder	0.0/100K
	100% below US avg
Rape	48.3/100K
Robbery	4.0/100K
Assault	165.2/100K

Property Crime

Total Property	1,273.0/100K
	35% below US avg
Burglary	112.8/100K
Theft	1,091.7/100K
Vehicle Theft	68.5/100K
Arson	0.0/100K

Traffic Safety

Fatal Crashes (County/yr)	1
Traffic Accidents	3
Avg Accident Severity	2.7 / 4.0

Safety Score

Safety Grade	F
Safety Score	1.0 / 5.0

View full crime details →

Brookings has a cool climate with an average annual temperature of 43°F (6°C). Winters average 13°F in January while summers reach 71°F in July. The area gets 276 sunny days per year, well above the U.S. average of 205 / making it one of the sunnier locations in the country. Annual precipitation totals 25.2 inches (drier than the 38-inch national average). The area receives 35.8 inches of snow annually, a moderate snowfall amount. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 36. 80% of days have good air quality. The city sits at an elevation of 1,655 feet.

Temperature

13°F Jan (-11°C) 71°F Jul (22°C)

Annual Average	43.3°F
	20% below US avg
January Average	13°F (-11°C)
July Average	71°F (22°C)
Sunny Days	276 days/yr

Geography

Elevation	1,655 ft (504 m)
Area	14.0 sq mi (36.2 km²)
Population Density	1,698/sq mi
Coordinates	44.3034°N, 96.7873°W
Timezone	America/Chicago
County	Brookings County County
Nearest Airport	Brookings Regional (BKX) 2 miles away

Precipitation & Snow

Annual Rainfall 25.2"

34% below US avg

Snowfall 35.8"

Wettest Month (Jun) 4.06"

Driest Month (Jan) 0.39"

Air Quality

AQI Median	36.0
Rating	Good
Good Days %	79.8%
Unhealthy Days	2

Air Pollutants (EPA 2023)

Ozone (O₃)	0.0424 ppm
PM2.5 (Fine Particles)	6.4 μg/m³

Natural Hazard Risk

Overall Risk	Relatively Low
Risk Score	50.1 / 100
Social Vulnerability	10.6 / 100
Community Resilience	65.8 / 100

Hazard Breakdown

Tornado	Relatively Moderate
Earthquake	Very Low
Wildfire	Relatively Low
Flood	Relatively Low
Hail	Relatively Moderate
Strong Wind	Relatively Moderate
Heat Wave	Relatively Low
Winter Weather	Relatively High
Lightning	Very Low
Ice Storm	Relatively Moderate
Drought	Relatively Low
Cold Wave	Relatively Moderate
Landslide	Very Low

Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.20 (Dec 2025)

Earthquake History

3 earthquakes (M2.5+) within 150 km since 1990. Strongest: M3.6. Most recent: M2.5 on Jan 16, 2022.

Oct 25, 1990	8 km N of Plankinton, South Dakota	M3.6	146 km
Jul 26, 2002	0 km WSW of Huron, South Dakota	M3.1	114 km
Jan 16, 2022	9 km NE of Plankinton, South Dakota	M2.5	142 km

Source: USGS (M2.5+, 1990–2025)

Tornado History

502 tornadoes (EF0+) within 100 km since 1950. Strongest: EF5. Total: 17 fatalities, 435 injuries.

Date	Rating	Distance	Fatalities
Jun 16, 1992	EF5	83 km	1
Jun 13, 1968	EF5	84 km	9
Jun 24, 2003	EF4	78 km	0
May 30, 1998	EF4	94 km	6
Jun 7, 1993	EF4	66 km	0
Jun 7, 1993	EF4	61 km	0
Jun 16, 1992	EF4	81 km	0
Jul 7, 1955	EF4	51 km	1
May 30, 2022	EF3	55 km	0
Jun 24, 2003	EF3	99 km	0
May 17, 1996	EF3	99 km	0
Jun 7, 1993	EF3	68 km	0
Jun 7, 1993	EF3	37 km	0
Jun 7, 1993	EF3	49 km	0
May 7, 1993	EF3	88 km	0
Jun 16, 1992	EF3	95 km	0
Jun 16, 1992	EF3	91 km	0
Jun 16, 1992	EF3	80 km	0
Jun 16, 1992	EF3	97 km	0
Jun 16, 1992	EF3	31 km	0

Source: NOAA SPC (EF0+, 1950–2024)

Monthly Weather

Month	Avg Temperature	Precipitation	Summary
January	13°F (-11°C)	0.4 in	Coldest, Driest
February	18°F (-8°C)	0.5 in
March	30°F (-1°C)	1.3 in
April	45°F (7°C)	2.2 in
May	57°F (14°C)	2.9 in
June	67°F (19°C)	4.1 in	Wettest
July	71°F (22°C)	3.2 in	Warmest
August	69°F (21°C)	2.9 in
September	60°F (15°C)	2.6 in
October	47°F (8°C)	1.7 in
November	30°F (-1°C)	0.9 in
December	17°F (-9°C)	0.4 in

Brookings has a seasonal temperature swing of 58°F / from 13°F in January to 71°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 23.1 inches, with June being the wettest month (4.1") and January the driest (0.4").

View full weather details →

Brookings is located in Brookings County. It is classified as Nonmetro / Urban 20K+, a smaller urban community. 49.7% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher, 47% above the national average of 33.7%. 96.7% have completed high school. 17.7% hold a graduate or professional degree (above the 13.1% national rate). Area schools have an average test score of 6.2 out of 10. In the 2024 presidential election, the county voted Republican with 57.4% of the vote, a 17.4-point margin. 89.4% of households have broadband internet access. The area has 3 EV charging stations. There are 2 public libraries serving the community. 101 healthcare facilities operate in the area. 74.6% of workers drive alone to work.

2024 Presidential Election (County)

R 57.4%

D 40%

Winner: Republican by 17.4 points

Safety & Disasters

Fatal Crashes (County/yr)	1
Traffic Accidents	3
Avg Accident Severity	2.7 / 4.0

F Safety Grade (1.0/5.0)

Education

Bachelor's Degree+	49.7%
	47% above US avg
High School+	96.7%
Graduate Degree+	17.7%
School Test Score	6.18

A+ Education Grade (5.0/5.0)

Area & Infrastructure

RUCC Code 5	Nonmetro / Urban 20K+
Population Density	1,698/sq mi
Total Area	14.0 sq mi
County	Brookings County County

Services

Broadband Access	89.4%
Avg Download Speed	110.9 Mbps
Avg Upload Speed	26.0 Mbps
Max Download Speed	1,000 Mbps
EV Charging Stations	3
Alt Fuel Stations	3
Public Libraries	2
Healthcare Facilities	101
Restaurants	89
Retail Stores	110

Commute & Transportation

Avg Commute	11.8 min
Drive Alone	74.6%
Public Transit	0.6%
Work from Home	10.1%

Average costs for common services in Brookings. Prices are estimated based on regional cost of living data and may vary by provider.

Healthcare

Doctor Visit (Primary Care)	$222 ($133–$354)
Specialist Visit	$310 ($177–$487)
Urgent Care Visit	$177 ($89–$310)
Emergency Room Visit	$1,949 ($709–$4,430)
Dental Cleaning	$115 ($66–$177)
Dental Filling	$222 ($133–$354)

View all 40 services

Auto Repair

Oil Change (Conventional)	$40 ($22–$66)
Oil Change (Synthetic)	$66 ($44–$106)
Brake Pad Replacement	$266 ($133–$443)
Tire Rotation	$35 ($18–$66)
New Tires (Set of 4)	$532 ($354–$886)
Battery Replacement	$177 ($89–$310)

View all 18 services

Home Services

Plumber (Per Hour)	$89 ($53–$133)
Electrician (Per Hour)	$80 ($44–$124)
HVAC Repair	$354 ($133–$709)
HVAC System Install	$6,202 ($3,544–$10,632)
Roof Repair	$886 ($354–$1,772)
Roof Replacement	$7,974 ($4,873–$13,290)

View all 25 services

Legal

Divorce (Uncontested)	$1,329 ($443–$3,101)
Divorce (Contested)	$13,290 ($4,430–$26,580)
DUI Defense	$4,430 ($1,772–$8,860)
Bankruptcy (Chapter 7)	$1,329 ($709–$2,658)
Will Preparation	$443 ($177–$886)
Trust Preparation	$2,215 ($886–$4,430)

View all 12 services

Personal Care

Men's Haircut	$22 ($13–$40)
Women's Haircut	$49 ($27–$89)
Hair Coloring (Full)	$133 ($66–$222)
Manicure	$22 ($13–$40)
Pedicure	$35 ($22–$58)
Massage (1 Hour)	$71 ($44–$115)

View all 12 services

Food & Grocery

Gallon of Milk (per gallon)	$3.63 ($2.66–$4.87)
Dozen Eggs (per dozen)	$3.10 ($2.22–$4.43)
Loaf of Bread	$3.37 ($2.22–$4.87)
Chicken Breast (per lb)	$3.99 ($2.66–$5.76)
Ground Beef (per lb)	$4.87 ($3.54–$6.65)
Rice (per lb)	$0.89 ($0.53–$1.59)

View all 20 services

Utilities

Electricity (Monthly)	$124 ($71–$222)
Natural Gas (Monthly)	$62 ($27–$133)
Water/Sewer (Monthly)	$62 ($35–$106)
Internet (Monthly)	$62 ($35–$89)
Cell Phone Plan (Monthly)	$58 ($27–$89)
Cable TV (Monthly)	$75 ($44–$133)

View all 8 services

Transportation

Monthly Parking (Downtown)	$177 ($66–$443)
Car Insurance (Annual)	$1,772 ($1,063–$3,101)
Bus Pass (Monthly)	$62 ($27–$115)
Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride)	$13 ($7.09–$22)
Car Registration (Annual)	$89 ($27–$222)
Driver's License Renewal	$27 ($13–$66)

View all 8 services

Education & Childcare

Daycare (Infant, Monthly)	$1,063 ($532–$2,215)
Daycare (Toddler, Monthly)	$886 ($443–$1,772)
After-School Care (Monthly)	$354 ($177–$620)
Tutoring (Per Hour)	$44 ($22–$89)
SAT/ACT Prep Course	$886 ($354–$2,215)
Private School (K-12, Annual)	$11,075 ($4,430–$26,580)

View all 8 services

Pets

Vet Visit (Routine Checkup)	$53 ($27–$89)
Dog Vaccination (Annual)	$89 ($44–$177)
Dog Grooming	$53 ($27–$89)
Pet Boarding (Per Night)	$35 ($18–$66)
Dog Spay/Neuter	$266 ($133–$443)
Cat Spay/Neuter	$177 ($89–$354)

View all 9 services

Childcare

Center-Based (monthly)
Infant	$650
Toddler	$650
Preschool	$591
Family Childcare (monthly)
Infant	$443
Toddler	$443
Preschool	$433

Source: DOL Women's Bureau (2022)

Top Industries in Brookings County

Largest private-sector industries by employment (BLS QCEW 2024 data, county level).

Industry	Jobs	Establishments	Avg Annual Pay	Location Quotient
Manufacturing	4,386	48	$76,627	2.77
Accommodation & Food Services	1,903	93	$19,438	1.09
Retail Trade	1,843	114	$34,502	0.96
Health Care & Social Assistance	1,038	94	$43,984	0.38
Construction	958	148	$64,298	0.95
Professional & Technical Services	751	196	$77,758	0.56
Wholesale Trade	650	100	$93,577	0.86
Other Services	578	92	$41,215	1.00
Finance & Insurance	549	77	$68,203	0.70
Transportation & Warehousing	355	52	$60,288	0.44
Administrative & Waste Services	343	99	$48,308	0.30
Arts & Entertainment	316	29	$18,303	0.98
Real Estate	215	42	$48,406	0.72
Information & Technology	139	41	$60,293	0.39
Educational Services	123	28	$24,413	0.31
Utilities	75	5	$114,409	1.02
Management of Companies	66	7	$94,744	0.20

Colleges & Universities in Brookings

Institution	Type	Enrollment	Acceptance	In-State Tuition	Out-of-State
South Dakota State University	Public · Graduate	13,616	98.7%	$9,299	$12,809
Institute of Lutheran Theology	Private Non-Profit · Graduate	140	—	$10,560	$10,560

Hospitals in Brookings

Hospital	Type	CMS Rating	Emergency	Phone
BROOKINGS HEALTH SYSTEM	Acute Care Hospitals	4/5	Yes	(605) 696-9000

Schools in Brookings

6 public schools (NCES 2022-23 data).

School	Level	Enrollment	Teachers	Student/Teacher
Brookings High School - 01 (Charter)	High	1,050	59	17.8:1
George S. Mickelson Middle School - 02 (Charter)	Middle	751	57	13.2:1
Camelot Intermediate - 06 (Charter)	Elementary	529	35	15.1:1
Dakota Prairie Elementary - 07 (Charter)	Elementary	473	35	13.5:1
Medary Elementary - 05 (Charter)	Elementary	323	28	11.5:1
Hillcrest Elementary - 04 (Charter)	Elementary	305	20	15.3:1

View full schools details →

Radio Stations near Brookings

2 stations within ~55 km.

Station	Genre	Quality
Korn	discography	AAC
KSDJ 90.7	alternative, indie	MP3 128 kbps

National Parks Near Brookings

6 national parks and monuments found near Brookings.

Park	Type	Fee
Blue Mounds State Park	State Park	Free
Camden State Park	State Park	Free
Lac qui Parle State Park	State Park	Free
Pipestone National Monument	National Monument	Free
Saaranen Beach	State Park	Free
Split Rock Creek State Park	State Park	Free

Museums in Brookings

Name	Type	Address	Phone	Annual Revenue
BROOKINGS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION	207 SAMARA AVE	6056279149	$26,940
CHILDREN'S MUSEUM OF SOUTH DAKOTA	CHILDREN'S MUSEUM	521 4TH ST	6056926700
DAKOTA TERRITORY LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM	HISTORY MUSEUM		6056934875
ESTELLINE HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION
MCCRORY GARDENS AND SOUTH DAKOTA ARBORETUM	ARBORETUM, BOTANICAL GARDEN, OR NATURE CENTER		6056886707
RITZ GALLERY	ART MUSEUM		8009523541
SCIENCE VISIONS	SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY MUSEUM OR PLANETARIUM
SOUTH DAKOTA AGRICULTURE HERITAGE MUSEUM	GENERAL MUSEUM		6056886226
SOUTH DAKOTA ART MUSEUM	ART MUSEUM		6056885423
STATE AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE MUSEUM	GENERAL MUSEUM		6056884583
WHITE AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY	HISTORIC PRESERVATION

Libraries in Brookings

Name	Address	Staff	Annual Visits	Circulation	Collection	Programs
BROOKINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY	515 THIRD STREET	0.0	151,804

Farmers Markets in Brookings

Name	Address	Season	Hours	Organic	Website
Brookings Farmers Market	300 Block of 6th Ave	05/07/2016 to 10/29/2016	Sun: 9:00 AM-1:00 PM;	Yes	Visit

Breweries in Brookings

Name	Type	Address	Phone	Website
Wooden Legs Brewing Company	Brewery and Bar	309 5th St	6056922337	Visit

Nursing Homes in Brookings

2 nursing homes and rehabilitation centers (CMS data).

Facility	Ownership	Beds	Residents	Overall	Health	Staffing	Quality	Phone
THE NEIGHBORHOODS AT BROOKVIEW 2421 YORKSHIRE DR	Government - City	79	78	5/5	—	5/5	4/5	6056968700
UNITED LIVING COMMUNITY 405 FIRST AVE	Non profit - Corporation	79	76	4/5	—	5/5	5/5	6056925351

Pharmacies in Brookings

5 pharmacies and drugstores.

Pharmacy	Address	Phone
CITY OF BROOKINGS	300 22ND AVE	605-696-7724
DAKOTA COMPOUNDING PHARMACY	628 MAIN AVE	605-692-7992
HY VEE INC	790 22ND AVE S	605-692-7311
LEWIS DRUGS, INC	910 22ND AVE S	605-692-8881
WAL-MART SUPERCENTER - 1538	2233 6TH STREET	605-692-1858

EV Charging Stations in Brookings

Name	Address	Network	Level 2	DC Fast	Connectors	Access
Brookings Activity Center	320 5th Ave	RED_E	1	1	CHADEMO J1772 J1772COMBO	public
CITY STATION BROOKINGS 1	520 3rd Street	ChargePoint Network	2		J1772	public

Cell Towers in Brookings

Address	Structure Type	Height (ft)
NW 1/4 SW 1/4 S 7, T 110 N, R 49 W (109354)	GTOWER	127
NW 1/4 SW 1/4 S 7, T 110 N, R 49 W (109354)	GTOWER	127
21422 476th Ave Located S of Aurora	TOWER	94
3.9 MILES NORTH OF 6TH AVE. AND .5 MILE WEST OF MEDARY AVE	TOWER	91

Fire Stations in Brookings

Name	Address	Type	Active Firefighters	Volunteers	Phone
Brookings Fire Department	607 20TH AVE	Mostly volunteer			605-692-6323

Bridges in Brookings

Type	Kind	Year Built	Length (ft)	Daily Traffic	Condition
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1966	31	12,240	F
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1966	29	12,240	F
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1970	20	9,960	F
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1970	24	9,960	F
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1967	70	9,525	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1967	113	9,525	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1968	67	8,734	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1966	398	7,880	P
Slab	Concrete continuous	1966	152	7,880	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1966	152	7,880	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1966	398	7,880	P
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete continuous	1966	153	6,970	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete continuous	1966	153	6,970	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1970	129	5,620	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1970	129	5,620	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1973	74	4,876	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1979	74	4,096	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	2001	74	4,096	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1978	186	4,096	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	2001	186	4,096	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1987	99	3,213	G
Slab	Concrete continuous	1968	67	3,213	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1967	74	2,684	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1966	254	2,684	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	2017	254	2,600	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	2022	260	2,500	G
Slab	Concrete continuous	1967	99	2,109	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1970	99	2,109	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1970	373	2,109	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1967	119	1,917	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1970	119	1,917	F
Culvert	Concrete	1932	35	1,356	P
Slab	Concrete continuous	1988	114	1,356	G
Truss (Thru)	Steel	1930	77	1,330	F
Culvert	Concrete continuous	2010	39	1,326	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	2020	246	1,305	G
Slab	Concrete continuous	2020	90	1,305	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1925	53	1,305	P
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1966	254	1,295	F
Slab	Concrete	1974	26	1,295	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1925	92	1,163	P
Culvert	Concrete	2023	78	684	G
Slab	Concrete continuous	1968	210	684	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1935	39	597	P
Slab	Concrete continuous	1955	118	454	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete	2022	213	454	G
Slab	Concrete continuous	1955	54	447	F
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1967	25	410	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Prestressed concrete continuous	1966	254	410	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1970	283	325	F
Tee Beam	Prestressed concrete	1965	144	200	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1970	279	146	F
Channel Beam	Concrete	1977	29	108	P
Channel Beam	Concrete	1967	72	99	P
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel continuous	1966	254	95	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1976	31	92	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1976	152	92	F
Tee Beam	Prestressed concrete	1975	51	92	F
Tee Beam	Prestressed concrete	1975	51	92	F
Tee Beam	Prestressed concrete	1985	66	92	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1968	111	92	F
Culvert	Concrete continuous	2000	62	92	G
Slab	Concrete continuous	1966	152	92	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1982	64	92	F
Tee Beam	Prestressed concrete	1979	51	92	F
Truss (Thru)	Steel	1910	113	92	P
Slab	Concrete continuous	1966	150	92	F
Culvert	Steel	2000	66	92	G
Tee Beam	Prestressed concrete	1980	51	92	F
Slab	Concrete	1978	113	92	G
Culvert	Concrete continuous	1966	35	92	G
Stringer/Multi-beam	Steel	1930	70	92	F
Stringer/Multi-beam	Concrete	1962	109	64	P
Slab	Concrete	1962	109	63	F
Truss (Thru)	Steel	1900	141	63	F
Slab	Concrete continuous	1970	113	63	F
Tee Beam	Prestressed concrete	1974	51	63	P
Tee Beam	Prestressed concrete	1978	50	45	P
Channel Beam	Concrete	1958	50	32	P
Culvert	Concrete continuous	2002	53	30	G

Correctional Facilities in Brookings

Name	Address	Type	Population	Capacity	Status
BROOKINGS COUNTY DETENTION CENTER	315 7TH AVE	COUNTY	25	54	OPEN

Superfund Sites Near Brookings

1 EPA Superfund sites (hazardous waste cleanup locations).

Site	Address	County
SOUTH DAKOTA SOYBEAN PROCESSORS	100 CASPIAN AVENUE	BROOKINGS

Airports Near Brookings

25 airports within the area.

Airport	IATA	Type
Sioux Falls Regional Airport	FSD	Medium Airport
Watertown Regional Airport	ATY	Medium Airport
Andersen Farms Airport	—	Small Airport
Arlington Municipal Airport	—	Small Airport
Brookings Regional Airport	BKX	Small Airport
Calico Field	—	Small Airport
Clear Lake Municipal Airport	—	Small Airport
Dykstra Acreage Airport	—	Small Airport
Erickson Intergalactic Airport	—	Small Airport
Flandreau Municipal Airport	—	Small Airport
Homan Field	—	Small Airport
Jensen Airport	—	Small Airport
Lac Qui Parle County Airport	—	Small Airport
Lake Preston Municipal Airport	—	Small Airport
Lundin Airport	—	Small Airport
Lutgen Airport	—	Small Airport
Madison Municipal Airport	XMD	Small Airport
Myers Field Airport	—	Small Airport
Oakleaf Airport	—	Small Airport
Pipestone Municipal Airport	—	Small Airport
Quentin Aanenson Airfield - Luverne Municipal Airport	—	Small Airport
Stone's Conservation Airport	—	Small Airport
Tribitt Airport	—	Small Airport
Tyler Municipal Airport	—	Small Airport
Weelborg Airport	—	Small Airport

Police Stations in Brookings

1 police stations.

Station	Address	Phone
Brookings City Police Department	307 3rd Avenue

Grocery Stores in Brookings

18 grocery stores.

Store	Type	Address
ALDI 72149	Supermarket	3018 Pasqueflower Pl
Brookings Farmers Market	Farmers and Markets	300 6th Ave
CASEY'S 1694	Convenience Store	620 8th St S
CASEY'S 2198	Convenience Store	122 6th St W
CASEY'S 2419	Convenience Store	534 22nd Ave S
Cenex Zip Trip 63	Convenience Store	1005 6th St
Cenex Zip Trip 64	Convenience Store	3045 Lefevre Dr
Corner Pantry 19	Convenience Store	921 20th St S
Dollar Tree 4462	Other	940 22nd Ave S
El Tapatio	Grocery Store	1717 6th St
Flavor International Grocery	Convenience Store	501 Main Ave
Hy-Vee Food Store 1039	Super Store	790 22nd Ave S
Kwik Star 1718	Convenience Store	2016 20th St S
Lewis Drug 12	Other	910 22nd Ave S
Papa Murphy's Take 'n' Bake Pizza SD009	Specialty Store	1810 6th St
Schoons Pump N Pak North	Convenience Store	202 Main Ave S
Schoons Pump N Pak South	Convenience Store	1203 Main Ave S
Walmart 1538	Super Store	2233 6th St

Post Offices in Brookings

1 post offices.

Post Office	Address
Brookings Post Office

Churches & Religious Organizations in Brookings

23 religious organizations (IRS tax-exempt data).

Name	Address
ABUNDANT LIFE	2120 3RD ST
ASCENSION LUTHERAN CHURCH	2030 3RD ST
BETHEL BAPTIST CHURCH INC	714 17TH AVE S
BIBLE FAITH FELLOWSHIP CHURCH INC	310 7TH AVE
CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAS	125 GILLEY AVE
DAKOTA BAPTIST ASSOCIATION	1047 N MAIN
FAITH REFORMED CHURCH BROOKINGS	1330 MAIN AVE S
FIRST ASSEMBLY OF GOD	416 17TH AVE S
FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH	MAIN AVE 8TH ST
FIRST LUTHERAN CHURCH OF BROOKINGS FOUNDATION	PO BOX 835
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH FOUNDATION OF BROOKINGS	625 5TH ST
GRACEPOINT WESLEYAN CHURCH	1420 ORCHARD DR
INSTITUTE OF LUTHERAN THEOLOGY	PO BOX 833
ISLAMIC SOCIETY OF BROOKINGS	724 11TH AVE
MIDWAY LUTHERAN CHURCH	PO BOX 54
MISSIONARY CHURCH INTERNATIONAL	3110 LAKE CAMPBELL DR
MOUNT CALVARY LUTHERAN CHURCH	629 9TH AVE
OUR SAVIOR LUTHERAN CHURCH	1010 8TH ST S
PEACE LUTHERAN CHURCH	1104 22ND AVE S
UNIVERSITY BAPTIST CHURCH	808 9TH ST
UNIVERSITY LUTHERAN CENTER	1404 8TH ST
WELS LUTHERAN STUDENT CENTER	919 9TH AVE
ZOAR LUTHERAN CHURCH	3519 MAIN AVE S

Explore Near Brookings

Mines

Active and inactive mining sites tracked by the Mine Safety and Health Administration

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Historic Markers

Officially designated historical markers from the Historical Marker Database

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UFO Sightings

Reported UFO sightings from the National UFO Reporting Center database

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Haunted Places

Locations with documented reports of paranormal activity and sightings

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Download Full City Report

Get a comprehensive, print-ready PDF with all data for Brookings.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Brookings

What is the population of Brookings?

Brookings has a population of 23,710 residents and is located in South Dakota. The population density is 1,698 people per square mile, spread across 14.0 square miles. The median age of residents is 24.7 years, which is younger than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 49.6% female and 50.4% male.

Is Brookings expensive to live in?

Brookings is more affordable than the national average, with a cost of living index of 88.6 / below the baseline of 100. The median household income is $61,979, 18% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $243,600 (14% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $862 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 3.9x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.

Is Brookings safe?

Brookings is safer than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 218 per 100,000 compared to the U.S. rate of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 1,273 per 100,000 (below the national average). Overall, Brookings receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.

What is the weather like in Brookings?

Brookings has a cool climate with an average annual temperature of 43°F (6°C). Winter temperatures average 13°F in January, while summers reach an average of 71°F in July. The area receives 276 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 25.2 inches, with 35.8 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 36.

How is the job market in Brookings?

Brookings has a healthy job market with an unemployment rate of 3.0%, near the national average of 3.6%. The average weekly wage is $1,096. There are 1,382 business establishments in the area, including 89 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 12 minutes, and 10.1% of workers work from home.

How much does housing cost in Brookings?

The median home value in Brookings is $243,600. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $308,760. For renters, the median monthly rent is $862. Fair market rent is $781 for a 1-bedroom and $953 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 48.5%. The average annual property tax is $5,740.

How are the schools in Brookings?

Schools in Brookings score 6.2 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 49.7% of adults in Brookings hold a bachelor's degree or higher, above the national average of 33.7%. 96.7% have completed high school. 17.7% hold a graduate or professional degree.

How healthy is Brookings?

The obesity rate in Brookings is 40.2% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 13.2% of adults are smokers. 20.6% are physically inactive. 23.3% of residents report depression. 7.8% lack health insurance. 85.2% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:1,732.

What is transportation like in Brookings?

The average commute in Brookings is 12 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 74.6% of workers drive alone to work, and 10.1% work from home.

What are the demographics of Brookings?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Brookings is 87.1% White, 1.5% Black or African American, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino. 90.8% of residents speak only English at home, while 9.2% speak Spanish. 4.2% of the population are military veterans. 9.7% of residents have a disability. 95.1% have health insurance coverage.

Nearby Cities

Aurora, SD 1,407 pop · 5.3 mi Volga, SD 2,246 pop · 6.8 mi Flandreau, SD 2,291 pop · 20.1 mi Colman, SD 1,011 pop · 22.1 mi Madison, SD 6,158 pop · 26.0 mi Pipestone, MN 4,165 pop · 31.8 mi Tyler, MN 1,019 pop · 32.3 mi Dell Rapids, SD 3,947 pop · 33.3 mi Baltic, SD 1,512 pop · 37.6 mi Canby, MN 1,563 pop · 38.3 mi Garretson, SD 1,166 pop · 43.0 mi Minneota, MN 1,531 pop · 43.6 mi Edgerton, MN 1,207 pop · 44.0 mi Crooks, SD 1,216 pop · 44.8 mi

Compare Brookings with another city:

Brookings, SD

Discover Brookings, SD

City Guide — Brookings

Overview 11/11

People 10/10

Economy 13/13

Housing 14/17

Health 25/26

Crime & Safety 11/12

Climate & Environment 18/19

Community 14/14

Cost of Services 3/3

Historical Trends 0/3

Geography 6/6

Places & Facilities 23/32

Explore (Map Features) 4/4

How Brookings Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)

People

Economy

Housing

Crime

Health

Climate

Education

Community

Is Brookings a Good Place to Live?

Economy & Jobs

Cost of Living & Housing

Safety & Crime

Education

Climate & Weather

Population

Gender Distribution

Race & Ethnicity

Brookings vs U.S. Average

Language Spoken at Home

Social Characteristics

Brookings vs U.S. Average

Income: Brookings vs U.S.

Commute Mode

Income

Employment & Poverty

Business (County)

Tax & Cost of Living

Commute & Transportation

Walkability

Home Value Sources

Ownership Split

Home Values

Real Estate Market (Redfin)

Rental Costs

HUD Fair Market Rent

Ownership & Property

Property Tax

Health Metrics: Brookings vs U.S. Average (%)

Chronic Conditions

Behaviors & Mental Health

Healthcare Access

Food & Exercise

Crime Rates: Brookings vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)

Violent Crime

Property Crime

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Temperature

Geography

Precipitation & Snow

Air Quality

Air Pollutants (EPA 2023)

Natural Hazard Risk

Hazard Breakdown

Earthquake History

Tornado History

Monthly Weather

2024 Presidential Election (County)

Safety & Disasters

Education

Area & Infrastructure

Services

Commute & Transportation