Web Developer in Brookings, SD

As a career analyst who’s spent years watching Brookings develop from a college town into a tech hub, I can tell you this city offers a unique value proposition for web developers. It's not a Silicon Valley replica; it's a grounded, affordable place where your paycheck stretches and the tech scene is quietly expanding. This guide uses hard data and local knowledge to help you decide if Brookings is your next career move.

The Salary Picture: Where Brookings Stands

Let’s cut to the chase: the numbers for web developers in Brookings are respectable, especially when you factor in the cost of living. The median salary for a web developer in Brookings is $89,438/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $43.0/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $92,750/year, but the gap closes significantly when you consider Brookings’ affordability.

The job market here is niche but stable, with approximately 47 jobs for web developers in the metro area. The 10-year job growth is projected at 16%, which is solid, driven by the expansion of local businesses and the need for digital services. While the raw number of jobs isn’t massive, the lower competition compared to major metros can be an advantage for skilled developers.

Here’s how salaries typically break down by experience level in Brookings:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Notes for Brookings Context
Entry-Level	$60,000 - $75,000	Often starts at local agencies, university IT, or small businesses. Strong problem-solving skills valued over years of experience.
Mid-Level	$75,000 - $95,000	Where the median sits. You'll be expected to handle projects independently, likely with a framework like React or Vue.
Senior-Level	$95,000 - $115,000	Involves leading projects, mentoring juniors, and making architectural decisions. Highly sought after by the larger local employers.
Expert/Specialist	$115,000+	Often in niche areas (e.g., full-stack with DevOps, cybersecurity for web apps). Typically at SDSU's research labs or a senior role at a major local firm.

When compared to other South Dakota cities, Brookings holds its own:

• Sioux Falls: Higher salaries (median ~$95k) but a much higher cost of living and more competition.
• Rapid City: Similar salaries but a more tourism-driven economy, which can lead to less consistent tech work.
• Aberdeen: Lower salaries and fewer opportunities, making Brookings a better option for tech professionals.

Insider Tip: The $89,438 median is a strong benchmark. If you’re offered a role significantly below this, it’s worth negotiating, especially if you have in-demand skills like full-stack JavaScript or UX/UI design.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

This is where Brookings shines. The Cost of Living Index is 88.1, meaning it’s about 12% cheaper than the U.S. average. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is just $789/month. Let’s break down a monthly budget for a web developer earning the median salary.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Web Developer at $89,438/year)

Category	Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Pay	$7,453	$89,438 / 12 months
Taxes (Est.)	-$1,650	Federal, State (SD has no income tax!), FICA. This is a conservative estimate.
Net Pay	~$5,803	Take-home after estimated taxes
Rent (1BR Avg.)	-$789	You can find quality apartments in this range or slightly less.
Utilities	-$200	Internet, electricity, water, trash. The local provider is Brookings Municipal Utilities.
Groceries	-$400	Affordable at local chains like Hy-Vee and Walmart.
Transportation	-$350	Car payment, insurance, and gas. Public transit (Brookings Transit) is limited; a car is almost a necessity.
Health Insurance	-$300	Varies by employer. Many local companies, like 3M, offer good plans.
Miscellaneous	-$600	Dining out, entertainment, savings, student loans.
Remaining	~$3,164	This disposable income is exceptionally high for the region.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Brookings is around $250,000 - $275,000. With $3,164 in monthly disposable income, a developer could comfortably save for a down payment in 1-2 years while maintaining a good lifestyle. This is a stark contrast to coastal tech hubs where home ownership is a distant dream for many professionals.

Where the Jobs Are: Brookings's Major Employers

The job market isn't just about startups. Brookings has a diverse employer base that needs web developers for internal tools, e-commerce, and digital marketing.

1. South Dakota State University (SDSU): The largest employer. The IT department, research labs (like the South Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station), and various academic departments all need developers for their websites, databases, and research applications. Hiring is steady, with a mix of staff and contract positions.
2. 3M Brookings: This global manufacturing giant has a significant presence. Their needs are for internal portals, supply chain dashboards, and employee-facing applications. It's a corporate environment with good benefits and stable projects.
3. Brookings Health System: The local hospital and clinic network requires developers for their patient portals, internal systems, and public websites. This is a growing area due to the healthcare industry's digital transformation.
4. Local Marketing & Advertising Agencies: Firms like Dakota Marketing and Brookings Creative handle web design and development for regional businesses. These are great spots to build a portfolio fast, working on client sites from local restaurants to agricultural equipment dealers.
5. Tech Startups & Spin-offs: Thanks to SDSU's innovation ecosystem, you'll find smaller tech companies, often in ag-tech or data analytics. These roles are less common but offer high growth potential and equity opportunities.
6. City of Brookings: The municipal government maintains its own website and public service applications. These jobs are very stable but can have slower-paced development cycles.
7. Retail & E-commerce: Companies like Brookings Running Co. or McDonald's (corporate stores) need local help for their digital presence, though these are often part-time or freelance gigs.

Hiring Trend Insight: Post-pandemic, there's been a noticeable uptick in demand for developers who can manage e-commerce platforms (Shopify, WooCommerce) and improve user experience (UX) for local businesses moving online. Remote work is accepted but less common; most employers prefer someone local for collaboration.

Getting Licensed in SD

South Dakota does not require a state-specific license to practice as a web developer. Your credentials are your portfolio, your degree (if applicable), and your certifications.

• State-Specific Requirements: None. The South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation does not regulate web development as a licensed profession like engineering or nursing.
• Costs: There are no state licensing fees. Your investment should go into a reputable portfolio (hosted on GitHub or a personal site), and potentially certifications from recognized bodies like Google (for UX) or AWS (for cloud skills).
• Timeline: There is no mandated timeline. You can start applying for jobs immediately. However, if you're looking to bolster your credentials, a 3-6 month period dedicated to building a strong portfolio and completing a relevant certification is a wise investment.

Insider Tip: While not a license, being familiar with South Dakota's data privacy laws can be an advantage for roles in healthcare or government contracting. It shows local awareness.

Best Neighborhoods for Web Developers

Brookings is a compact city, but neighborhoods have different vibes. Commutes are rarely an issue—most are under 15 minutes by car.

1. Downtown/Near SDSU: The hub of activity. You're close to coffee shops (like Prairie Berry), the South Dakota Art Museum, and the main campus. Rent for a 1BR is closer to $850-$950. Ideal if you want a walkable, energetic environment and don't mind older housing stock. Commute to any employer is minimal.
2. East Brookings (Highway 14 East): A quieter, residential area with newer apartment complexes and single-family homes. Rents are closer to the city average ($750-$825 for 1BR). Great for those who want more space and a suburban feel, with easy access to the Brookings Mall and grocery stores.
3. North Brookings: Primarily residential, with a mix of older and newer homes. Rent can be slightly lower ($700-$775). It's very family-oriented and quiet. The commute is still short, but you'll rely more on driving to get to the core downtown or SDSU.
4. South Brookings: Home to the Brookings Airport (BKX) and some industrial areas, but also has residential pockets. Rents are similar to the East side. Good if you need quick access to the interstate for travel or if you work at a company like 3M, which is in the southeast part of the city.
5. College Creek Area: A newer development near SDSU, popular with grad students and young professionals. Offers modern amenities but at a higher price point ($900+ for 1BR). It's the most "up-and-coming" neighborhood with a younger demographic.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Brookings isn't a hotspot for rapid career acceleration like Seattle or Austin, but it offers a stable, sustainable path with room for specialization.

• Specialty Premiums: The biggest salary boost comes from full-stack development combined with DevOps skills (AWS, Docker). Given the agricultural and manufacturing base, developers with experience in data visualization and IoT (Internet of Things) interfaces are highly valued and can command a premium. UX/UI specialization is also in demand for local e-commerce and agency work.
• Advancement Paths: The typical path is: Junior Developer at an agency or the university -> Mid-Level Developer at a larger corporate employer (like 3M) -> Senior Developer/Team Lead. The ceiling is lower than in major tech hubs; you're unlikely to find a CTO role at a FAANG company here. However, you can become a technical lead at SDSU or a senior architect at a local firm, which comes with significant respect and a solid salary.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 16% job growth is promising. This growth is unlikely to be driven by new tech giants but by the digitalization of Brookings' core industries: agriculture, education, and healthcare. Remote work will also allow Brookings-based developers to tap into national salary scales while enjoying local costs of living. Networking locally at events hosted by The Innovation Center at SDSU is key to long-term growth.

The Verdict: Is Brookings Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Extremely low cost of living allows for high disposable income and home ownership.	Limited job market (only 47 jobs); you may need to wait for the right opening.
Strong sense of community and a collaborative, non-cutthroat tech scene.	Fewer networking events and tech meetups compared to larger cities.
Excellent work-life balance; 9-5 culture is the norm, with ample time for outdoor activities.	Car-dependent; public transit is not robust.
Home to SDSU, providing a pipeline of talent and intellectual capital.	Career ceiling is lower; you won't find every tech specialty here.
Safe, family-friendly environment with good schools and low crime rates.	Winters are harsh and long; if you hate snow and cold, this is a drawback.

Final Recommendation: Brookings is an excellent choice for web developers who prioritize affordability, quality of life, and stability over a high-intensity, high-growth tech career. It's ideal for mid-career professionals looking to buy a home, start a family, or escape the grind of a major city, while still doing meaningful work. It's less ideal for those seeking a fast-paced startup environment or who specialize in cutting-edge fields like blockchain or VR. For the right person, Brookings offers a rare combination of a decent tech salary and a truly comfortable life.

FAQs

1. How competitive is the job market for web developers in Brookings?
Competition is moderate. With only 47 jobs in the metro area, you won't be competing with thousands of applicants. However, employers are selective and look for a strong portfolio and cultural fit. Tailor your application to the local industry (e.g., highlight any e-commerce or data dashboard projects).

2. Do I need a car in Brookings?
Yes, for all practical purposes. While the downtown area is walkable, most employers (like 3M, the hospital, and major residential areas) are spread out. Brookings Transit offers bus routes, but service is limited and not ideal for a daily commute.

3. What's the tech community like?
It's small but growing. The best way to connect is through SDSU's Innovation Center events, local Meetup.com groups (search for "Brookings Tech"), and networking at Chamber of Commerce events. It's a tight-knit community where people know each other, which can be a huge advantage.

4. Is remote work common?
It's increasing but not the norm. Many local employers prefer having their IT staff on-site. However, the rise of remote work post-2020 has made it more acceptable. You might find hybrid roles (2-3 days in the office) at places like SDSU or 3M. There are also opportunities for remote work with out-of-state companies while living in Brookings.

5. How does South Dakota's lack of state income tax impact my take-home pay?
It's a significant benefit. South Dakota is one of the few states with no personal income tax. This means your paycheck goes further. On a $89,438 salary, you could save roughly $2,500-$4,000 annually compared to a state with a 5% income tax, depending on your filing status and deductions. This directly contributes to the high disposable income calculated above.