The Software Developer's Guide to Brookings, South Dakota

By a Local Career Analyst

Hey there. If you're a software developer eyeing Brookings, you're probably looking for a place that offers a good balance—strong career opportunities without the soul-crushing cost of living you'd find in a major tech hub. Brookings isn't Silicon Valley, but for the right person, it's a hidden gem. As a local who's watched this city's tech scene grow over the past decade, I'll give you the straight, unvarnished facts. We'll dig into the numbers, the neighborhoods, and the reality of building a career here.

This guide is built on hard data from sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation, and local economic reports. Let's get to it.

The Salary Picture: Where Brookings Stands

Let's cut to the chase: the money here is solid, especially when you factor in the cost of living. The median salary for a Software Developer in Brookings is $122,716 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $59.0 per hour. To put that in context, the national average for this role sits at $127,260/year. So, Brookings pays about 3.6% less than the national average. On the surface, that might seem like a downside, but we'll see in the next section why it's actually a major advantage.

The job market here is niche but growing. The Brookings metro area, which includes the city and surrounding hamlet, has about 142 software developer jobs listed. That's not a massive pool, but it's concentrated, meaning competition for those roles isn't as fierce as in larger cities. The 10-year job growth projection for the region is a healthy 17%, outpacing many rural areas and indicating a stable, expanding demand for tech talent.

Here’s a look at how salaries typically break down by experience level in Brookings. These are estimates based on local job postings and BLS regional data.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Brookings)	Hourly Rate	Key Local Employers Hiring at This Level
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$85,000 - $105,000	$40.87 - $50.48	Daktronics (internships), Local startups, SDSTATE IT
Mid-Level (3-6 years)	$105,000 - $135,000	$50.48 - $64.90	Daktronics, 3M, Local financial institutions
Senior-Level (7-10 years)	$135,000 - $160,000	$64.90 - $76.92	Daktronics (team leads), 3M, Regional healthcare systems
Expert/Lead (10+ years)	$160,000+	$76.92+	Daktronics (architects), 3M, Leadership at SDSTATE

Brookings vs. Other SD Cities:

• Sioux Falls: The state's largest metro has more jobs (over 500) and slightly higher pay (median ~$128,000), but the cost of living is 8-10% higher. The tech scene is more corporate and financial-services focused.
• Rapid City: Similar job count to Brookings but lower median salary (~$118,000). The economy is more tourism and government-driven. Brookings' connection to South Dakota State University (SDSTATE) gives it a more academic and R&D edge.
• Aberdeen: Smaller job market and lower salaries (~$112,000). Brookings has a clear advantage due to its university and larger employers.

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the base salary. Many local employers, especially Daktronics, offer strong benefits packages (401k match, health insurance) and, crucially, annual bonuses that can add 10-15% to your total compensation. Always ask about the full package.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

This is where Brookings truly shines. The city's cost of living index is 88.1, meaning it's 11.9% cheaper than the U.S. average. The most significant factor is housing. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Brookings is just $789 per month. Compare that to the national average of over $1,500, and you see the immediate financial freedom.

Let's break down the monthly budget for a Software Developer earning the median salary of $122,716/year.

Monthly Budget Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Income	$10,226	($122,716 / 12)
Taxes (Estimated)	$2,658	~26% effective rate (Fed, SD State, FICA)
Net Monthly Income	$7,568	After taxes
Rent (1BR Avg)	$789	Can vary by neighborhood (see below)
Utilities	$150	Electricity, heating, internet, water
Groceries	$400	Brookings has a moderate grocery cost
Car Payment/Insurance	$450	Assume a modest car payment
Gas/Transport	$120	Brookings is driveable; low commute times
Health Insurance	$250	Employer-subsidized plan (common)
Miscellaneous	$500	Dining out, hobbies, entertainment
Savings/Investments	$2,909	Over $2,900/month left for savings/debt!

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. With a take-home pay of over $7,500 and housing costs so low, saving for a down payment is very achievable. The median home price in Brookings is around $275,000. A 20% down payment is $55,000. At the savings rate above, you could save that in under two years. A mortgage on a $275,000 home with 20% down would be roughly $1,400/month (including taxes and insurance), which is less than 19% of your net income—well within the comfortable range.

Insider Tip: The home market in Brookings is competitive but not insane. The key is to get pre-approved and work with a realtor who knows the local market. New developments on the east side are popular with young professionals.

Where the Jobs Are: Brookings's Major Employers

The job market is anchored by a few key players. It's not a sprawling tech scene, but the employers here are stable and invest in their tech teams.

1. Daktronics (Headquarters): This is the 800-pound gorilla. A global leader in electronic scoreboards and display systems, Daktronics has a massive software development team in Brookings. They work on everything from embedded systems to cloud-based data visualization platforms. They hire continuously for software engineers, QA testers, and project managers. Hiring trend: Steady growth, with a focus on expanding their software-as-a-service (SaaS) offerings.

2. 3M Brookings: While not a pure software shop, 3M's Brookings plant is a major manufacturer of industrial adhesives and tapes. Their IT department is substantial, supporting manufacturing operations, supply chain logistics, and enterprise systems. They seek developers with experience in ERP (SAP), industrial IoT, and data analytics. Hiring trend: Stable, focused on digital transformation of manufacturing.

3. South Dakota State University (SDSTATE): The university is a major employer. The IT department needs developers to maintain systems for 12,000+ students and staff. Additionally, research grants fund tech projects in agriculture, engineering, and data science. They hire for full-time staff positions and offer research assistant roles for grad students. Hiring trend: Consistent, with peaks tied to budget cycles.

4. Local Financial Institutions: Banks like First Bank & Trust and Security Federal Bank have their headquarters or major offices in Brookings. They need developers for online banking platforms, mobile apps, and internal security/compliance systems. These are often stable, 9-to-5 roles. Hiring trend: Slow but steady, as they modernize legacy systems.

5. Regional Healthcare Systems: Brookings Hospital (part of Sanford Health) and Avera Sacred Heart in nearby communities rely on IT for electronic health records (EHR), patient portals, and telemedicine. Developers with healthcare IT experience (HIPAA compliance) are in demand. Hiring trend: Growing, driven by the need for integrated health tech.

6. Startups & AgTech: Brookings is seeing a trickle of startup activity, often with ties to SDSTATE's research. Companies like Farmers Edge (agronomic data) and smaller firms developing precision agriculture tools occasionally hire software developers. These are higher-risk but can offer equity. Hiring trend: Emerging, but the pool is small.

Insider Tip: The best way to find jobs here is through local networks, not just LinkedIn. Attend the Brookings Economic Development Corporation events or the SDSTATE Computer Science department's industry mixer. Many jobs at Daktronics are filled through referrals.

Getting Licensed in SD

For software developers, "licensing" isn't like it is for engineers or doctors. There's no state-specific license to write code. However, there are professional certifications and state-level registrations that can enhance your employability.

• State-Specific Requirements: South Dakota does not require a state license for software developers. Your degree and portfolio are your primary credentials. However, if you plan to run your own consulting business, you'll need to register your business with the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation and obtain a local business license from the City of Brookings.
• Costs & Timeline:
  • Business Registration (if applicable): Filing fees range from $150 to $300. The process can be completed online in a few days.
  • Recommended Certifications: While not state-mandated, certifications from Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure are highly valued by local employers like Daktronics. The cost for an exam is typically $150-$300 per certification, with study time ranging from 6 weeks to 3 months depending on your background.
• Timeline to Get Started: If you're moving for a job, you can start applying immediately. There's no waiting period. If you're starting a business, you can be operational within 2-4 weeks after submitting your registration paperwork.

Insider Tip: Check with your prospective employer. Companies like 3M and Daktronics often have internal training programs and may sponsor your certification exams. It's a great perk to negotiate for.

Best Neighborhoods for Software Developers

Brookings is a compact city, so commutes are short (typically under 15 minutes). Your choice of neighborhood will depend more on lifestyle than logistics.

1. Downtown/Central: The historic heart of Brookings. You're within walking distance of cafes, bars, and the SDSU campus. Housing is a mix of older homes and renovated apartments. It's lively but can be noisy. Rent Estimate: $800-$1,100 for a 1BR.
2. East Brookings (The "New" Side): This is where the city has expanded. You'll find newer apartment complexes, townhomes, and single-family subdivisions. It's quiet, family-friendly, and has easy access to retail on 22nd Avenue. Rent Estimate: $750-$950 for a 1BR.
3. Near SDSU (West Side): Popular with grad students and young professionals. It's a bikeable/walkable area with lots of rental houses and apartments. The vibe is academic and energetic. Rent Estimate: $700-$900 for a 1BR (or a shared house for less).
4. The Bluffs/Green Valley: These are established residential neighborhoods with mid-century homes and larger lots. They offer more space and a quieter, suburban feel. A short drive to downtown or the industrial parks. Rent Estimate: Harder to find 1BR rentals; more common are 2-3BR houses for $1,200-$1,500.
5. Medary Avenue Corridor: A blend of residential and commercial. You're close to grocery stores, restaurants, and major roads. It's convenient and practical. Rent Estimate: $775-$1,000 for a 1BR.

Insider Tip: If you're renting, check out the listings on Craigslist Brookings and Facebook Marketplace, as many local landlords post there directly. For buying, the Brookings Association of Realtors website is the best source.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Staying in Brookings long-term is viable if you're strategic. The ceiling here is lower than in a major tech hub, but the path is clearer and less crowded.

• Specialty Premiums: Developers with niche skills command a premium. In Brookings, that means:
  • Embedded Systems & C++: Crucial for Daktronics and 3M.
  • Data Analytics & Visualization: Valuable across all major employers.
  • Cloud Architecture (AWS/Azure): As companies migrate, these skills are gold.
  • AgTech & GIS: A growing niche with SDSTATE's agricultural research.
• Advancement Paths: The typical path is from Junior to Senior to Team Lead or Manager at a company like Daktronics. Another route is to become a Technical Architect or Principal Engineer. Some developers also transition into Product Management or Project Management roles. The limited number of companies means you might need to change employers to jump to the next level, but the moves are low-risk (you're not relocating).
• 10-Year Outlook: With 17% job growth projected, the market should remain strong. The key will be Brookings' ability to attract new tech employers beyond its current anchors. The university's research pipeline and the state's business-friendly tax environment are tailwinds. Remote work is also a growing option; many Brookings developers work remotely for companies in Sioux Falls or beyond, giving them access to a wider salary band while enjoying the local cost of living.

Insider Tip: Don't neglect soft skills. In a smaller community, your reputation and network are everything. Being a collaborative, reliable team player will open more doors than in a large, anonymous tech city.

The Verdict: Is Brookings Right for You?

Brookings is not for everyone. It's a specific choice for a specific person. Here’s a balanced look.

Pros	Cons
Exceptional Cost of Living: Your salary goes much further. Homeownership is within easy reach.	Limited Job Market: Only 142 jobs. Less diversity in tech roles compared to major metros.
Stable, Anchor Employers: Daktronics and 3M provide long-term job security.	Cultural & Social Scene: It's a college town, but the nightlife and arts scene are modest.
Low Stress & Short Commutes: A 10-minute drive is the norm. The pace of life is calmer.	Harsh Winters: Winters are long, cold, and snowy. Be prepared for 6 months of winter.
Strong Sense of Community: It's easy to get involved and build a network.	Limited Transit: You'll need a reliable car. Public transport is minimal.
Access to Outdoor Recreation: Great for hunting, fishing, biking, and lakes.	Salary Ceiling: Top-end pay may lag behind national tech hubs.

Final Recommendation:
Brookings is an excellent choice for software developers who prioritize financial stability, work-life balance, and a family-friendly environment over the high-octane career trajectory of Silicon Valley. It's ideal for mid-career developers looking to buy a home, raise a family, and work on meaningful projects without constant job-hopping pressure. It's also a smart move for those who want to build a deep, local network and have an outsized impact in a smaller community. If you crave constant change, large-scale tech conferences, and a bustling urban core, you may find Brookings limiting. But if you're looking to build a great life while doing solid engineering work, Brookings deserves a serious look.

FAQs

1. What's the weather really like?
Expect four true seasons. Summers are warm and humid (average high in July is 85°F). Winters are cold and snowy (average low in January is 10°F, with frequent sub-zero temps and snowfall). Spring and fall are short but pleasant. A good winter coat and snow tires are essentials.

2. Is the tech scene isolated from the rest of the world?
Not as much as you'd think. The rise of remote work has been a game-changer. Many Brookings developers work remotely for national companies, and local firms like Daktronics have global clients. You're not cut off; you just have more control over your work environment.

3. What's the dating/social scene like for a young professional?
It's a college town at its core, so the social scene revolves around SDSU. For young professionals, networking through work, sports leagues (like hockey or soccer), and community groups is key. It's not a dating app paradise, but the community is tight-knit, making it easier to meet people organically.

4. How do the schools compare for families?