Brookings

Tucked into the rolling prairies of eastern South Dakota, Brookings might not be the first city that comes to mind when you’re scanning relocation options — but that’s part of what makes it a hidden gem. Home to South Dakota State University, a thriving downtown, and some of the friendliest neighbors you’ll ever meet, Brookings has a way of surprising people who give it a chance. Whether you’re chasing affordability, a slower pace, or a community with genuine character, this small city of roughly 23,700 people punches well above its weight.

A City That Fits Multiple Lifestyles

Brookings is unmistakably a college town, and that energy shapes everything from the local restaurant scene to the arts calendar. With SDSU anchoring the north end of the city, there’s a constant influx of students, faculty, and researchers that keeps the community from feeling sleepy. The median age hovers around 24.7 years, which means the city leans young — a real plus if you’re looking for an active social environment, live music, or late-night coffee shops. But don’t let that fool you into thinking Brookings is exclusively for students. Established neighborhoods like Hillcrest and the areas surrounding 22nd Avenue offer quieter residential streets where families have put down roots for generations. Retirees, young professionals, and long-term residents all carve out comfortable lives here side by side.

Cost of Living and Housing

One of Brookings’ most compelling selling points is its affordability relative to what you actually get. The median home price sits at $243,600 — modest by national standards, and particularly attractive if you’re coming from a larger metro area. You’ll find a mix of older craftsman-style homes near downtown, newer developments on the city’s south and west sides, and a healthy rental market driven by the university population. The median household income in Brookings is around $61,979, and combined with South Dakota’s lack of a state income tax, most residents find their dollar stretches further here than expected. Groceries, utilities, and everyday expenses are all in line with Midwest averages, and you won’t be fighting big-city traffic to get anywhere.

Employment and Economy

South Dakota State University is the city’s economic backbone, employing thousands and driving demand for everything from housing to healthcare services. Beyond the university, Daktronics — the global leader in large-scale LED scoreboards and displays — is headquartered right here in Brookings and represents the kind of innovative employer that attracts skilled workers. The Brookings Health System serves the region’s medical needs and is another significant local employer. The broader economy benefits from agriculture, manufacturing, and a growing tech sector supported by SDSU’s research programs. Remote workers will find the combination of reliable infrastructure and low cost of living particularly appealing as well.

Lifestyle and Recreation

Outdoor enthusiasts will feel right at home. Dakota Nature Park offers excellent trails and wildlife viewing just minutes from downtown, and the nearby Oakwood Lakes State Park is a favorite for camping, fishing, and kayaking in the summer. SDSU athletics — especially Jackrabbit football at Dana J. Dykhouse Stadium — are a serious community affair, and game days bring the whole city together. The South Dakota Art Museum on campus hosts impressive rotating exhibitions, and the Children’s Museum of South Dakota is a standout attraction that draws visitors from across the region. Downtown Brookings along Main Avenue has seen real revitalization, with locally owned restaurants, breweries, and boutiques adding vibrancy to the core.

The Bottom Line

Brookings won’t overwhelm you with big-city amenities, and that’s honestly the point. What it offers instead is a grounded, livable community where housing is attainable, neighbors still wave from front porches, and there’s always something happening if you seek it out. If you’re willing to embrace the prairie winters and a smaller-scale pace of life, Brookings has a remarkable amount to give back in return.