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What is the average salary in Brookings, SD?

The average salary in Brookings, SD is $54,920 per year.

Salaries in Brookings, SD, offer a range of opportunities for job seekers. The average yearly salary stands at $54,920. This figure provides a good benchmark for understanding the earning potential in the area. Salaries in Brookings vary across different industries, with some sectors offering higher pay than others.


The distribution of salaries shows a mix of earnings. The largest percentage, 36.92%, falls within the $27,500 to $42,564 range. Other notable segments include 27.14% earning between $42,564 and $57,628, and 12.95% earning between $57,628 and $72,692. Higher salaries are less common, with only a small percentage of the workforce earning over $132,947 annually. These figures highlight the range of opportunities available in Brookings, SD, for those seeking employment.

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What are the best paying jobs in Brookings, SD?

Job seekers in Brookings, SD, have several high-paying career options available. The top-paying jobs include roles such as Registered Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse, and General Manager. These positions offer competitive salaries and valuable opportunities for career growth. Registered Nurses in Brookings earn an average of $77,712 per year, making it one of the highest-paying jobs in the area. Licensed Practical Nurses follow closely with an average salary of $64,926. General Managers also enjoy a strong income, averaging $50,663 annually. These roles provide stability and the potential for advancement in the local job market.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Brookings, SD, highlighting Registered Nurse with the highest at $77,712 and Team Member with the lowest at $29,659.
  1. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $77,712
    Registered Nurses work in hospitals and clinics, providing care to patients. They work with doctors and other healthcare professionals. Brookings has several healthcare facilities, offering many opportunities.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Brookings, SD


  2. Licensed Practical Nurse
    Average Salary: $64,926
    Licensed Practical Nurses assist doctors and Registered Nurses in patient care. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. This role is essential in ensuring patient comfort and health.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Brookings, SD


  3. General Manager
    Average Salary: $50,663
    General Managers oversee the daily operations of businesses. They manage staff, handle budgets, and ensure customer satisfaction. Many local businesses need strong leaders to drive success.
    Find General Manager jobs in Brookings, SD


  4. Maintenance Technician
    Average Salary: $46,993
    Maintenance Technicians repair and maintain equipment. They work in various settings, including schools, offices, and factories. This role is crucial for keeping facilities running smoothly.
    Find Maintenance Technician jobs in Brookings, SD


  5. Construction Laborer
    Average Salary: $45,202
    Construction Laborers assist skilled workers on job sites. They perform tasks like digging, lifting, and operating machinery. Many construction projects in Brookings need reliable laborers.
    Find Construction Laborer jobs in Brookings, SD


  6. Delivery Driver
    Average Salary: $42,195
    Delivery Drivers transport goods to customers. They work for companies like FedEx and UPS. This job is ideal for those who enjoy driving and meeting new people.
    Find Delivery Driver jobs in Brookings, SD


  7. Retail Sales Associate
    Average Salary: $38,335
    Retail Sales Associates help customers find products. They work in stores, answering questions and processing sales. Many local stores offer opportunities for those who enjoy customer service.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Brookings, SD


  8. Cook
    Average Salary: $34,892
    Cooks prepare meals in restaurants, schools, and hospitals. They follow recipes and ensure food quality. This role is perfect for those who love cooking and working in a fast-paced environment.
    Find Cook jobs in Brookings, SD


  9. Customer Service Representative
    Average Salary: $34,125
    Customer Service Representatives assist customers with inquiries and complaints. They work in various industries, including retail and finance. This job requires strong communication skills and a friendly attitude.
    Find Customer Service Representative jobs in Brookings, SD


  10. Team Member
    Average Salary: $29,659
    Team Members work in various roles, from retail to food service. They assist customers and perform basic tasks. This role is great for those looking to gain experience and build a resume.
    Find Team Member jobs in Brookings, SD

What are the best paying jobs in Brookings, SD without a degree?

Job seekers in Brookings, SD, can find well-paying roles without needing a degree. Restaurant Manager tops the list with an average salary of $38,697. This position offers a chance to lead a team and manage daily operations in a bustling environment. Other high-paying jobs include Housekeeping, Server, and Barista, each offering competitive salaries. These roles provide valuable experience and opportunities for growth in the service industry. With these positions, individuals can earn a solid income while gaining essential skills.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Brookings, SD without a degree, highlighting Restaurant Manager with the highest at $38,697 and Server Assistant with the lowest at $30,285.
  1. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $38,697
    Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff, ensure customer satisfaction, and handle finances. Work in local eateries like the family-owned diner or a cozy cafe.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Brookings, SD


  2. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $34,408
    Clean and maintain rooms in hotels or motels. Ensure a tidy environment for guests. Opportunities exist in places like the downtown hotel or a bed and breakfast.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Brookings, SD


  3. Server
    Average Salary: $33,437
    Serve food and drinks to customers. Take orders and ensure a pleasant dining experience. Work in various restaurants, from casual diners to upscale eateries.
    Find Server jobs in Brookings, SD


  4. Barista
    Average Salary: $32,141
    Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers and ensure a welcoming atmosphere. Opportunities include local coffee shops and cafes.
    Find Barista jobs in Brookings, SD


  5. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $32,127
    Prepare ingredients and cook food in a fast-paced kitchen. Work closely with the kitchen team to meet orders. Positions available in restaurants and cafes.
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  6. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $30,606
    Clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Ensure a clean and sanitary environment. Work in various dining establishments, from casual diners to fine restaurants.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Brookings, SD


  7. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $30,325
    Assist in food preparation and cooking. Support the kitchen staff in a busy environment. Opportunities can be found in local restaurants and cafes.
    Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Brookings, SD


  8. Server Assistant
    Average Salary: $30,285
    Help servers with tasks such as setting tables and clearing dishes. Ensure a smooth dining experience for customers. Work in various dining establishments.
    Find Server Assistant jobs in Brookings, SD

Which companies offer the top salaries in Brookings, SD?

Job seekers in Brookings, South Dakota, can find competitive salaries with several top employers. Interim HealthCare, South Dakota Board of Regents, and Avera Health lead the way, offering average salaries above $50,000. These companies provide attractive compensation packages, making them desirable options for those seeking good pay and benefits. Brookings Health System, Twin City Fan Companies, Ltd., and Sanford Health also offer solid salaries, with averages ranging from $49,540 to $57,260. South Dakota State University, City of Brookings, and Quality Tool provide good opportunities for those looking to balance salary with career growth. These companies ensure that job seekers can find rewarding positions with fair compensation in Brookings.
Graph displaying company salaries in Brookings, SD, highlighting Interim HealthCare with the highest at $62,208 and Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Plains, Inc. with the lowest at $40,734.
  1. Interim HealthCare
    Average Salary: $62,208
    Interim HealthCare provides home care, hospice, and healthcare staffing. They focus on patient care and support.


  2. South Dakota Board of Regents
    Average Salary: $59,658
    The South Dakota Board of Regents oversees the state's six public universities. They work to improve higher education.


  3. Avera Health
    Average Salary: $57,260
    Avera Health is a not-for-profit Catholic health system. They offer a wide range of healthcare services.


  4. Twin City Fan Companies, Ltd.
    Average Salary: $53,983
    Twin City Fan Companies, Ltd. manufactures industrial fans. They are a leading provider in the industry.


  5. Brookings Health System
    Average Salary: $52,048
    Brookings Health System offers a variety of healthcare services. They focus on patient care and community health.


  6. Sanford Health
    Average Salary: $49,540
    Sanford Health is a large healthcare provider. They offer a wide range of medical services across multiple states.


  7. South Dakota State University
    Average Salary: $48,376
    South Dakota State University is a public research university. They offer a variety of academic programs.


  8. City of Brookings
    Average Salary: $46,411
    The City of Brookings provides municipal services. They focus on community development and public safety.


  9. Quality Tool
    Average Salary: $43,568
    Quality Tool manufactures precision tools and equipment. They serve a variety of industries.


  10. Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Plains, Inc.
    Average Salary: $40,734
    Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Plains, Inc. offers youth programs. They focus on education, sports, and leadership.

How does the cost of living in Brookings, SD compare to the national average?

Brookings, SD, offers a cost of living that is notably lower than the nationwide average. The overall cost of living index for Brookings stands at 87, which is 13% below the average of 100. This makes Brookings an attractive option for those seeking more affordable living expenses without sacrificing quality of life. Specifically, housing costs in Brookings are 25% lower than the national average, while groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses are all within 10% of the average. This balanced distribution of lower costs across various categories enhances Brookings' appeal for budget-conscious individuals.
Cost of living comparison graph for Brookings, SD vs. Nationwide: housing 25% lower, groceries 5% lower, utilities 10% lower, transportation 15% lower, healthcare 0% lower, miscellaneous 12% lower.

Brookings, South Dakota, offers a cost of living that is notably lower than the nationwide average. The cost of living index for Brookings stands at 85. This figure represents a 15% lower cost compared to the national average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Brookings are particularly favorable, with an index of 75, indicating that residents can expect to pay 25% less for housing than the average American.


In addition to housing, other expenses in Brookings also remain below the national average. For instance, groceries cost 95, which is 5% less than the average. Utilities and transportation are also more affordable, with indices of 90 and 85, respectively. This means residents spend 10% less on utilities and 15% less on transportation. Healthcare costs in Brookings match the national average at 100, while miscellaneous costs are slightly lower at 88, reflecting an overall 12% savings.

There are 353 job openings in Brookings, SD, today!

Take a deeper dive into the job market in Brookings, SD

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City
Overview
Brookings, SD
353 Job Openings