Salaries in Brookings, SD

You might be surprised to learn that Brookings, South Dakota, is a town of makers and marketers, not just farmers. With a population hovering around 23,700, it’s home to South Dakota State University, which fuels a surprisingly robust economy. The unemployment rate here is a razor-thin 2.2%, meaning if you’ve got skills, you’re in demand.

The real story, though, is purchasing power. Brookings boasts a cost of living index of just 89.5—about 10% cheaper than the national average. That $61,979 median household income doesn’t just stretch; it runs. A one-bedroom apartment goes for about $789 a month, which is a relief compared to coastal cities. You’ll feel that difference in your daily life, from groceries to a night out.

So who’s thriving here? The top-paying jobs aren’t what you’d expect in a mid-sized Midwestern town. Marketing managers pull in nearly $152,000, while pharmacists and software developers earn well over $120,000. These sectors are buoyed by major employers like the university, Daktronics (a big name in electronic scoreboards), and 3M. It’s a blend of education, tech, and healthcare that keeps the paychecks solid.

Here’s my honest take: while the average salary is $76,517, the COL-adjusted equivalent is $85,494. That’s a strong showing, but wages haven’t been skyrocketing; they’ve grown steadily. This city is a fantastic fit for young professionals, especially those in tech or marketing, and for anyone wanting to buy a home without a six-figure down payment. The catch? It’s a college town, so the social scene can feel a bit cyclical.

The data below will break down exactly what each role pays and how far your money will actually go here.