What is the average salary in Brookings, SD?
Exploring the job market in Brookings, SD, reveals a range of salaries across various industries. The average yearly salary is approximately $54,622. This figure includes a mix of wages from different sectors, ensuring job seekers can find competitive pay. With a diverse economy, Brookings offers opportunities for various skill levels and professional backgrounds.
The salary distribution in Brookings spans from lower to higher earnings, providing a wide array of choices. Key sectors contributing to these salaries include healthcare, education, and retail. Here are some key salary points:
- Healthcare workers earn around $27,000
- Educators make about $39,273
- Retail employees receive approximately $51,545
- Specialized roles can go up to $162,000
What are the best paying jobs in Brookings, SD?

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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $79,364
Health professionals provide patient care in hospitals and clinics. Nurses work closely with doctors and other healthcare workers. Brookings has local hospitals and clinics that need skilled nurses.
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Diesel Technician
Average Salary: $74,679
Mechanics fix and maintain diesel engines. They work in auto repair shops and for transportation companies. Many businesses in Brookings rely on these professionals.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $70,601
LPNs provide basic medical care under the supervision of doctors. They work in nursing homes and clinics. Brookings has many facilities that need LPNs.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $54,259
Managers oversee daily operations in businesses. They need to be organized and communicate well. Many local businesses in Brookings seek experienced managers.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $46,934
Technicians repair and maintain equipment. They work in factories and other businesses. Many local companies need skilled technicians.
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Construction Laborer
Average Salary: $45,869
Laborers help build and maintain structures. They work on construction sites and for building companies. Local construction projects need laborers.
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Delivery Driver
Average Salary: $39,661
Drivers transport goods to customers. They work for delivery services and retailers. Many businesses in Brookings need reliable drivers.
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Cook
Average Salary: $36,536
Cooks prepare meals in restaurants and cafeterias. They need to follow recipes and ensure food safety. Local restaurants and schools need cooks.
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Customer Service Representative
Average Salary: $35,083
Representatives assist customers with questions and problems. They work for various businesses. Many local companies seek friendly and helpful reps.
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Team Member
Average Salary: $30,796
Team members help in stores and businesses. They need to be customer-focused. Many local shops need team members.
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What are the best paying jobs in Brookings, SD without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $37,572
Oversee the operations of a restaurant, ensuring a welcoming environment. Manage staff, handle customer concerns, and coordinate with local suppliers. Roles are available with establishments like Café Verve and Dakota Sioux Cafe.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $35,858
Maintain clean and comfortable spaces in hotels and residential facilities. Perform tasks like cleaning rooms and common areas. Local hotels and inns offer roles for those interested in this profession.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $34,041
Prepare meals in fast-paced kitchen environments. Work under pressure to meet high-quality standards. Opportunities are available at dining establishments like The Pizza Parlor and South Dakota Brewing Co.
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Barista
Average Salary: $32,879
Craft coffee beverages and serve customers in a friendly and efficient manner. Develop a variety of drinks to delight coffee lovers. Positions open at local coffee shops such as The Cupboard and Artisan Roastery.
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Server
Average Salary: $32,253
Take orders, serve food, and ensure a great dining experience. Communicate well with kitchen staff to keep service smooth. Join the team at dining spots like The Little Diner and The Patio Restaurant.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $30,193
Clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Work diligently to ensure everything is ready for the next service. Opportunities exist in a variety of restaurants and cafes.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Brookings, SD?

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South Dakota Board of Regents
Average Salary: $64,321
A leader in education, offering opportunities in teaching, administration, and support roles.
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Avera Health
Average Salary: $57,505
A health care provider offering jobs in nursing, medicine, and support services.
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Brookings Health System
Average Salary: $52,912
A local health care organization with positions in medical care, administration, and support.
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Twin City Fan Companies, Ltd.
Average Salary: $48,485
A manufacturer of ventilation and heating systems with roles in production, engineering, and management.
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City of Brookings
Average Salary: $47,346
A local government offering jobs in public service, administration, and law enforcement.
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Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Plains, Inc.
Average Salary: $43,748
A non-profit supporting youth development with positions in education, administration, and recreation.
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Daktronics
Average Salary: $42,710
A company specializing in electronic displays with roles in engineering, production, and sales.
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Sodexo
Average Salary: $37,355
A service provider in food, facilities management, and more with positions in dining, custodial, and support roles.
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Domino's
Average Salary: $33,214
A well-known pizza chain offering positions in food preparation, delivery, and management.
How does the cost of living in Brookings, SD compare to the national average?

Brookings, South Dakota, stands out with a cost of living index that is notably lower than the nationwide average. The city's housing costs, for instance, are about 17% below the national average, offering residents a more affordable living situation. This can significantly ease the financial burden for those relocating to Brookings, especially for those on a fixed budget.
Moreover, Brookings has grocery costs that are 5% below the national average, making it easier for residents to feed their families without stretching their budgets too thin. Utilities in Brookings are almost on par with the national average, slightly lower at just 1%. This indicates that maintaining a comfortable home environment doesn't require a significant financial outlay. Additionally, transportation costs in Brookings are 10% below the national average, which can be a significant saving for anyone relying on personal vehicles. These factors combined paint a picture of a city where living expenses are generally lower, making it an attractive option for those looking to save on their monthly expenses while maintaining a reasonable quality of life.



