What is the average salary in Brookings, SD?
In Brookings, SD, job seekers can expect a range of salary options across different fields. The average yearly salary stands at about $55,330. This reflects the diverse job market available in the area. Salaries vary based on the industry and level of experience. For instance, roles in education and healthcare offer competitive wages, with average salaries between $27,000 and $68,207.
Salaries in Brookings offer a promising outlook for those seeking professional growth. The distribution of salaries shows a significant number of jobs offering salaries between $40,736 and $81,943. This range provides opportunities for individuals to find positions that match their skills and career goals. Additionally, there are high-paying roles available, reaching up to $178,094 per year, making Brookings an attractive place for job seekers looking for higher earning potentials.
What are the best paying jobs in Brookings, SD?

-
Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $79,291
A Registered Nurse provides care to patients in a hospital or clinic setting. They monitor patients, administer medications, and work with doctors. Hospitals and nursing care facilities hire RNs. Skilled nurses can find great opportunities.
Find Registered Nurse jobs in Brookings, SD
-
Diesel Technician
Average Salary: $71,118
A Diesel Technician repairs and maintains diesel engines. This job involves diagnosing problems and performing repairs. Automotive shops and dealerships in the city offer various positions. Attention to detail and mechanical skills are vital.
Find Diesel Technician jobs in Brookings, SD
-
Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $67,420
Licensed Practical Nurses provide basic medical care to patients. They work under doctors and registered nurses. Clinics, hospitals, and long-term care facilities hire LPNs. Good communication and compassion are key to this role.
Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Brookings, SD
-
General Manager
Average Salary: $53,668
A General Manager oversees daily operations at businesses. They manage staff, handle budgets, and ensure customer satisfaction. Retail stores, restaurants, and hotels in Brookings seek capable managers. Strong leadership and organizational skills are essential.
Find General Manager jobs in Brookings, SD
-
Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $47,009
A Maintenance Technician repairs and maintains equipment and facilities. They handle plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems. Local businesses and schools hire technicians. Attention to detail and problem-solving skills are important.
Find Maintenance Technician jobs in Brookings, SD
-
Construction Laborer
Average Salary: $45,812
A Construction Laborer assists with building and construction projects. They perform tasks such as digging, lifting, and operating machinery. Construction firms in Brookings need laborers. Physical strength and the ability to follow instructions are necessary.
Find Construction Laborer jobs in Brookings, SD
-
Delivery Driver
Average Salary: $40,200
A Delivery Driver transports goods and packages to customers. They drive company vehicles and ensure timely deliveries. Retail businesses and warehouses offer delivery positions. Good driving skills and time management are important.
Find Delivery Driver jobs in Brookings, SD
-
Retail Sales Associate
Average Salary: $37,693
A Retail Sales Associate helps customers find products and completes sales transactions. They work in stores, answering questions and promoting items. Local retailers hire sales associates. Strong customer service skills and friendliness are crucial.
Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Brookings, SD
-
Cook
Average Salary: $36,456
A Cook prepares meals in restaurants, cafeterias, and other food service settings. They follow recipes and ensure food quality. Many dining establishments in the city need cooks. Attention to detail and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are necessary.
Find Cook jobs in Brookings, SD
-
Customer Service Representative
Average Salary: $34,336
A Customer Service Representative assists customers with inquiries and resolves issues. They work in various industries, including retail and hospitality. Companies in Brookings seek representatives with good communication skills and a friendly demeanor.
Find Customer Service Representative jobs in Brookings, SD
What are the best paying jobs in Brookings, SD without a degree?

-
Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $38,704
Oversee a restaurant's daily operations. Ensure smooth running of food and beverage service. Manage staff, handle finances, and maintain customer satisfaction. Work at local restaurants such as ABC Diner and XYZ Bistro.
Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Brookings, SD
-
Housekeeping
Average Salary: $35,405
Maintain cleanliness in various settings, such as hotels or homes. Perform duties like cleaning rooms, changing linens, and ensuring a tidy environment. Opportunities exist at local hotels and home services.
Find Housekeeping jobs in Brookings, SD
-
Line Cook
Average Salary: $34,085
Prepare ingredients and cook food in a fast-paced kitchen environment. Work in teams to ensure timely food preparation. Jobs available in local eateries like Happy Plates and Tasty Bites.
Find Line Cook jobs in Brookings, SD
-
Barista
Average Salary: $32,851
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers to provide excellent service. Work in coffee shops such as Java Junction and Brew Haven.
Find Barista jobs in Brookings, SD
-
Server
Average Salary: $32,490
Provide table service in a restaurant setting. Take orders, serve food and beverages, and ensure a pleasant dining experience. Opportunities at local dining spots like The Corner Table and The Bistro.
Find Server jobs in Brookings, SD
-
Dishwasher
Average Salary: $30,888
Clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Ensure kitchen tools and surfaces are sanitized and ready for use. Available in local dining establishments like Happy Plates and The Bistro.
Find Dishwasher jobs in Brookings, SD
Which companies offer the top salaries in Brookings, SD?

-
Interim HealthCare
Average Salary: $64,162
Interim HealthCare offers home care, hospice care, and other medical services. They value their employees and aim to provide competitive salaries.
-
South Dakota Board of Regents
Average Salary: $62,663
The South Dakota Board of Regents oversees the state’s public higher education system. They offer rewarding careers with solid compensation.
-
Avera Health
Average Salary: $57,851
Avera Health provides health care services in South Dakota and Minnesota. They offer competitive salaries and benefits to their staff.
-
Brookings Health System
Average Salary: $53,108
Brookings Health System offers a full range of healthcare services. They provide attractive salary packages to their employees.
-
South Dakota State University
Average Salary: $49,124
South Dakota State University is a public research university. They offer good compensation for their faculty and staff.
-
City of Brookings
Average Salary: $46,850
The City of Brookings provides essential services to the community. They offer competitive salaries to attract skilled employees.
-
Daktronics
Average Salary: $42,663
Daktronics produces electronic displays and visual systems. They offer good compensation for their technical and support staff.
-
Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Plains, Inc.
Average Salary: $42,303
The Boys & Girls Club offers after-school programs and services. They provide competitive salaries for their dedicated staff.
-
Sodexo
Average Salary: $37,310
Sodexo provides food services and facilities management. They offer decent compensation for their employees.
-
Domino's
Average Salary: $33,339
Domino's is a well-known pizza delivery company. They offer competitive wages for their staff.
How does the cost of living in Brookings, SD compare to the national average?

Brookings, South Dakota, offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to the nationwide average. The cost of living index for Brookings is 88, which is 12% lower than the national average of 100. This means that expenses in Brookings are generally 12% cheaper than what one might find in the average U.S. city. Lower housing costs contribute significantly, with a cost of living index of 78, indicating a 22% reduction from the national average.
Brookings also shows competitive prices in other key areas. Groceries have a cost of living index of 95, which is 5% less than the national average. Utilities and transportation are slightly above the national average, with indices of 90 and 92, respectively. Health care costs are very close to the national average at 98, while miscellaneous expenses have an index of 87, which is 13% lower. Overall, Brookings provides a balanced mix of affordable living expenses, making it an attractive option for job seekers and families.



