Sign In Register
Ruby C. best-worst

Best kept secrets of Brookings, SD

It's a a small town city with about 23,710 people. Median household income is $61,979, which feels about average for the area. Homes are going for about $243,600 on average. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting.

Pros:
- Good job market
- Good internet infrastructure
- Good airport connections

Cons:
- Hot summers
- Not very walkable
- Lack of diversity
- Few job opportunities in some fields
Am I wrong here? The suburbs are where most families end up. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The weather takes some getting used to. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The school system varies a lot by neighborhood. The suburbs are where most families end up. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. The weather takes some getting used to. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Property taxes are high but you get good services. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The weather takes some getting used to. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Traffic can be rough during rush hour, no sugarcoating that. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable.
1 upvotes

8 Replies

Olivia B.
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.

I've been in Meadowbrook for 15 years. Moved from San Francisco for cost of living. Here's my honest, detailed take:

**Housing:**
The market right now is hit or miss. We bought in 2016 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 1-bed in a safe area. Older homes are where the value is.

**Employment:**
consulting is strong here. tech is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are reasonable for the area.

**Quality of Life:**
it's been a really good experience overall. The outdoor scene is better than expected - we have state parks within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.

**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Meadowbrook schools are decent. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.

**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Urban sprawl is real. Homeless population growing downtown. And housing market can be frustrating.

**Bottom line:**
For remote workers, I'd say this is a 7/10. No regrets on my end.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
40 upvotes
Sophie
If you're remote, this place is great for cost of living. it's exactly what I was looking for. Internet is challenging in most areas.
40 upvotes
Mark H.
Hot take but I love the pace of life here. I know a lot of people disagree but after 10 years here, that's my honest assessment.
35 upvotes
indy_grayson
My experience has been mostly positive. it exceeded my expectations. The only thing I'd watch out for is safety. Other than that, It's not for everyone but it works for us..
25 upvotes
David Wilson
As someone who grew up here, it's improved dramatically in recent years. A lot has changed in the past few years though. public transit used to be much reasonable but now it's surprisingly good.
22 upvotes
Mackenzie P.
My experience has been mostly positive. I love the pace of life here. The only thing I'd watch out for is weather. Other than that, Good luck with whatever you decide..
15 upvotes
Ezekiel Harris
We moved here with our family and I genuinely enjoy living here. Schools in Eastside area are excellent. Kids love it here.
10 upvotes
Henry Campbell
OK I'm going to write a proper review because I've seen too many incomplete answers.

Background: I'm a contractor, 48, moved here 13 years ago from Seattle. I've lived in Oak Park and The Heights, and traveled to most parts of the metro.

**What I love:**
1. Good healthcare facilities
2. Good internet infrastructure
3. Affordable housing options
4. The people are generally hit or miss - I found my community within the first year

**What I don't love:**
1. Not very walkable outside downtown
2. Can feel isolated
3. The cost of living situation is competitive and doesn't seem to be improving

**Neighborhoods I'd recommend:**
- Oak Park: Great for singles. solid vibes, walkable.
- The Heights: More affordable, family-friendly.

**Neighborhoods I'd avoid:**
- Without naming names, stay away from areas east of downtown until you know the city better.

**Cost comparison:**
Coming from Seattle, everything felt underrated. Rent is about /mo. Groceries are reasonable. Gas is stable. You can live comfortably on $90K-$70K here.

**Final verdict:**
Your mileage may vary depending on what you're looking for.. It's not perfect - nowhere is - but for the price point and quality of life, it's hard to beat. DM me if you have specific questions.
4 upvotes
← Back to Brookings Community