Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Brookings, SD
Considering a move to Brookings, SD? With a vibrant college-town atmosphere and a youthful median age of just 25, Brookings offers affordable living with median home prices around $255,000 and rents averaging $900. The city boasts low violent crime (160 per 100K), short 13-minute commutes, and a high educational attainment rate thanks to South Dakota State University. You'll enjoy 62% sunny days each year, strong schools, and a friendly, close-knit community feel—ideal for families, students, and professionals alike.
Demographics - Brookings, SD
Demographics - Brookings, SD
Brookings is home to nearly 25,000 residents, with a notably young median age of 25.1 years thanks in part to the presence of South Dakota State University. The city features a predominantly White population with growing diversity, and a balanced gender ratio, creating a dynamic and welcoming community.
Population:
24,989
Density:
2,250 per sq mi
Median Age:
25.1
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
89.0%
Black:
1.6%
Asian:
3.2%
Others:
6.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Brookings, SD?
Living in Brookings is affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values around $255,000. Rent is accessible at about $900 per month, and residents benefit from no state income tax, making it a budget-friendly option for families and individuals.
Median House Value:
$255,000
Gross Rent:
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,100
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,325
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$470
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.4
Grocery:
96.3
Housing:
72.8
Utilities:
92.1
Transportation:
82.6
Health Care:
103.4
Miscellaneous:
89.2
Crime
Is Brookings, SD a safe place to live?
Brookings is considered a safe city, with a low violent crime rate of 160 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate that ensures peace of mind for residents. The chances of experiencing a violent crime are about 1 in 625, making it an attractive choice for those prioritizing safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
160
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,120
Crime Index:
1,280
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 625
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 89
Weather
What is the weather like in Brookings, SD year-round?
Residents of Brookings experience four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 84°F and cold winters dipping to 7°F. The city enjoys 62% sunny days annually and receives about 25 inches of rainfall, offering a blend of sunshine and seasonal variety.
Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
28°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
84°F
Fall
Min:
35°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
25.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
62%
Neighbors
Brookings neighborhoods offer a mix of affordability and education, with median household incomes around $56,700 and a high rate of adults holding at least a high school diploma. Low unemployment and short average commute times of 13.5 minutes contribute to an easygoing lifestyle.
Median Income:
$37,700
Household Income:
$56,700
Family Income:
$81,400
Per Capita Income:
$27,700
Income Male:
$41,200
Income Female:
$33,500
Poverty Rate:
18.0%
Non English Speakers:
6.5%
Rent:
$900
Unemployment Rate:
2.5%
Public Transport Usage:
1.0%
Commute Time:
13.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
96.0%
Bachelors or More:
45.8%
Education
How are the schools in Brookings, SD?
Brookings stands out for its strong educational offerings, featuring well-rated public schools and the prominent South Dakota State University with over 11,000 students. Families and students benefit from quality K-12 education and higher learning opportunities within the city.
Public Schools
Name:
Brookings High School
Street:
530 Elm Ave
Phone:
605-696-4100
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
16:1
Name:
Mickelson Middle School
Street:
1801 12th St S
Phone:
605-696-4500
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
15:1
Private Schools
Name:
Sioux Valley Lutheran High School
Street:
200 2nd St, Volga
Phone:
605-627-5657
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
South Dakota State University
City:
Brookings
State:
SD
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
11,300
Healthcare
Healthcare in Brookings is accessible, with the Brookings Health System providing comprehensive services and emergency care. The city boasts a high rate of insured residents (92.4%) and more than two physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring quality medical support.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Brookings Health System
Address:
300 22nd Ave, Brookings, SD 57006
Phone:
(605) 696-9000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.4%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Brookings, SD?
Brookings features a stable housing market, with a median home price of $255,000 and average rents for two-bedroom apartments at $900. Over half of homes are owner-occupied, and vacancy rates remain moderate, reflecting steady demand and growth.
Median Home Price:
$255,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
52.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.2%
DMV Information
Residents manage their driving needs through the South Dakota Department of Public Safety, with licensing services available both online and at state offices. The DMV offers convenient access to essential services for new and current drivers.
State:
South Dakota
Department:
South Dakota Department of Public Safety - Driver Licensing
Address:
118 W. Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD 57501
Phone:
1-605-773-6883
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.