Is Brookings Safe, Pros and cons of living in Brookings

Brookings, South Dakota, offers a unique blend of community charm and economic opportunity, making it an attractive place for many to consider a move. The city is known for its strong educational institutions, particularly South Dakota State University, which significantly influences its job market and cultural landscape. Brookings also boasts a friendly atmosphere and a variety of recreational activities, contributing to a desirable quality of life for its residents.

The cost of living in Brookings is generally considered to be in line with or slightly below national averages, making it an economically viable option for individuals and families. Its location in eastern South Dakota provides access to natural beauty and a slower pace of life, which appeals to those seeking a respite from larger, more bustling urban centers. This combination of affordability and lifestyle draws a diverse range of people to Brookings.

Is it Safe to Live in Brookings?

Brookings, South Dakota, presents a generally safe environment for its residents, with crime rates that are notably lower than the national average. In recent reports, the overall crime rate in Brookings has been recorded as 40% lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). This includes a significant reduction in violent crimes, which are 76% lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes).

Specifically, violent crimes in Brookings are considerably lower than the national average, with a rate of 85 per 100,000 residents (as reported by AreaVibes). Property crimes also show a lower rate than the national average, with 1177 per 100,000 people reported (as reported by AreaVibes). These statistics indicate that Brookings is a community where residents can feel secure, with a low probability of becoming a victim of crime.

Cost of Living and Housing

Housing Costs

The housing market in Brookings, South Dakota, offers a range of options with a median home value that is competitive. As of March 31, 2026, the average home value in Brookings was approximately $312,510, showing a 5.1% increase over the past year (as reported by Zillow). The median list price for homes was around $356,583 as of the same date (as reported by Zillow).

Rental prices in Brookings are also a significant factor for those considering a move. The average rent for all property types in Brookings was approximately $1,445 per month as of March 31, 2026 (as reported by Zillow). This figure is notably lower than the national average rent of $1,910 per month (as reported by Zillow), suggesting that renting in Brookings can be more affordable than in many other parts of the country.

Cost of Living

Brookings offers a cost of living that is generally considered favorable, particularly when compared to national averages. While specific comprehensive cost of living indices are not readily available from a single source, the housing costs provide a strong indicator of affordability. The median household income in Brookings was $63,493 in 2024 (as reported by CUBIT, citing US Census Bureau data).

This median income, combined with the housing market data, suggests that residents can maintain a comfortable lifestyle. The city’s economic stability, bolstered by its major employers, further supports its affordability. Brookings provides a cost-effective environment for both homeowners and renters.

Job Market and Economy

Major Employers

The economic landscape of Brookings, South Dakota, is significantly shaped by its major employers, creating a diverse job market. South Dakota State University is a primary employer, contributing substantially to the local economy and providing numerous academic and administrative positions (as reported by Zippia and Lensa). Daktronics, a leader in electronic display systems, is another significant employer, offering a wide array of technical and manufacturing roles (as reported by Zippia and Lensa).

Other key employers in Brookings include 3M Company, a global science company, and Brookings Health System, providing essential healthcare services. Retail giants like Walmart and Lowe’s also play a role in the employment sector, offering various service and operational jobs (as reported by Lensa and Zippia). These diverse employers contribute to a robust and varied job market within the city.

Unemployment and Salaries

Brookings maintains a healthy employment outlook, with unemployment rates generally aligning with or performing better than national trends. While specific current unemployment rates for Brookings were not found in the search results, broader economic reports from the Brookings Institution indicate a generally improving job market nationally, with unemployment rates falling in recent years (as reported by Brookings Institution). The average salary in Brookings can vary significantly by industry and role.

For instance, the average salary at The Brookings Institution, a prominent think tank, was estimated at $97,825 per year as of May 2026 (as reported by Payscale). However, this figure represents a specific organization and may not reflect the broader city average. For roles within the city itself, the median household income was reported as $63,493 in 2024 (as reported by CUBIT, citing US Census Bureau data), providing a benchmark for general earning potential.

Climate and Environment

Temperature and Weather Patterns

Brookings, Oregon, experiences a climate characterized by comfortable summers and cooler, wetter winters. The temperature typically ranges from 43°F to 67°F throughout the year, with occasional dips below 36°F or highs above 75°F (as reported by Weather Spark). The warmest months are July and August, with average high temperatures around 67°F, while the coldest month is December, with average lows near 43°F (as reported by Weather Spark).

The area experiences distinct wet and dry seasons. The wetter season spans from October to April, with December having the most wet days, averaging over 15 days with significant precipitation (as reported by Weather Spark). Conversely, the drier season runs from April to October, with August typically seeing fewer than one wet day on average (as reported by Weather Spark).

Climate Data

Precipitation in Brookings, Oregon, is a defining feature of its climate, with significant rainfall occurring during the fall and winter months. Average precipitation data from NOAA indicates that monthly rainfall can vary considerably throughout the year. For example, December typically sees the highest amount of precipitation, contributing to the region’s lush environment (as reported by Weather Spark).

The National Weather Service provides detailed local forecasts and historical weather data for Brookings, including temperature, humidity, and wind speed (as reported by National Weather Service). This information is crucial for understanding the day-to-day weather patterns and long-term climate trends that shape life in Brookings.

Education and Demographics

School Ratings

The Brookings School District in Brookings, Oregon, is rated as a C-minus overall by Niche, with specific strengths and weaknesses across various categories. The district serves PK-12 students and has a student-teacher ratio of 18:1 (as reported by Niche). State test scores indicate that 18% of students are proficient in math and 32% are proficient in reading (as reported by Niche).

In Brookings, South Dakota, the Brookings School District also receives a B-minus overall rating from Niche. This district serves K-12 students with a student-teacher ratio of 17:1. According to state test scores, 36% of students in this district are proficient in math and 51% are proficient in reading (as reported by Niche).

Demographics

Brookings, South Dakota, has a population of approximately 23,948 residents as of the most recent US Census data (as reported by CUBIT, citing US Census Bureau data). The city’s demographic profile is predominantly White, making up about 86.2% of the population, followed by Asian residents at 4.6% and Hispanic residents at 4.2% (as reported by CUBIT, citing US Census Bureau data).

The median age in Brookings is notably young, at 24.7 years (as reported by CUBIT, citing US Census Bureau data). This youthful demographic is likely influenced by the presence of South Dakota State University. The population is comprised of about 69% individuals between the ages of 18 and 64 (as reported by Census Reporter).