Brookings, OR demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
6,703
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,933/yr
2.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,296
-4.9% year-over-year change

Brookings population

How many people live in Brookings

Brookings is home to 6,703 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 41.2% of Brookings locals are male, and 58.8% are female.

Total population
6,703
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
41.2%
2,760
Female
58.8%
3,943
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,760 41.2% -10.5%
Female 3,943 58.8% 8.0%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Brookings is 51, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.3% are children under 15, then 3.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.7% of the population, while another 26.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 26.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
50.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.3%
15 to 24
3.8%
25 to 44
26.7%
45 to 64
26.8%
Over 65
26.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,091 16.3% 17.8%
15 to 24 255 3.8% 44.9%
25 to 44 1,787 26.7% -3.6%
45 to 64 1,797 26.8% 1.6%
Over 65 1,773 26.4% -11.8%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Brookings, 92.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 12.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.7%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 6,230 92.9% 1.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 314 4.7% -18.2%
Non-citizens 159 2.4% -33.2%
Racial breakdown
White
84.2%
Black or African American
0%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
1.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
12.9%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 5,644 84.2%
Black or African American 1 0%
American Indian and Alaska Native 43 0.6%
Asian 108 1.6%
Two or more races 863 12.9%
Other 44 0.7%

Households in Brookings

A peek inside Brookings households

Brookings has 2,987 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 71.9% are families, while the remaining 28.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,987
-4.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
840
Family households
2,147
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 840 28.1% -3.6%
Family households 2,147 71.9% -4.4%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Brookings

The housing landscape of Brookings

Brookings's housing consists of 3,296 units, with 57.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 15.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 1.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,296
-4.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,909 57.9%
1 unit, attached 524 15.9%
2 units 253 7.7%
3 or 4 units 192 5.8%
5 to 9 units 140 4.2%
10 to 19 units 80 2.4%
20 to 49 units 157 4.8%
Mobile home 41 1.2%
Homes built since 2020
18
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Brookings

In Brookings, the median construction year is 1988. About 0.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 26 0.8% -61.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 31 0.9% -50.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 496 15% 9.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 229 7% 38.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 381 11.6% -33.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 574 17.4% -3.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 945 28.7% 5.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 482 14.6% -11.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 114 3.5% 7.5%
Built in 2020 or later 18 0.6% N/A
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Brookings occupancy rates

Out of the 2,987 occupied housing units in Brookings, 59.8% are owner-occupied, while 40.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,987
-4.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,200
Owner occupied
1,787
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,200 40.2% 28.3%
Owner occupied 1,787 59.8% -18.1%
Unoccupied housing units
9.4%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Brookings housing costs

Housing costs in Brookings come to a median of $1,422 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,415.

Median housing costs per month
$1,422/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Brookings
$1,415/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Brookings

Brookings education at a glance

About 34.2% of the population in Brookings went to high school, while 36.7% pursued college studies. Another 9.1% earned an associate degree and 9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 68 1.2% -65.3%
High school diploma 1,890 34.2% 7.8%
College diploma 2,031 36.7% -0.5%
Associate degree 503 9.1% -7.9%
Bachelor's degree 497 9% -10.1%
Graduate degree 541 9.8% -17.1%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Brookings

How much people earn in Brookings

The average annual household income in Brookings was $91,223 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,933, reflecting a +2.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Brookings
$91,223/year
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Brookings
$74,933/year
2.1% year-over-year change

Brookings income by age

In Brookings, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $91,602. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,884 overall. Overall, 83.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $91,602 24.8%
45 - 64 $78,884 -3.8%
Over 65 $53,750 -20.4%
Above poverty level
5,430
Below poverty level
1,100
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 5,430 83.2% -6.9%
Below poverty level 1,100 16.8% 54.9%

Average renter income in Brookings

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Brookings, their median household income was $65,294 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 26%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$65,294
Rent-to-income ratio
26%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Brookings

Workforce and job types in Brookings

The job market in Brookings is powered by 3,101 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.5% run their own businesses, 53% are employed by private companies, and 29.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,101
5.5% year-over-year change
White collar
2,345
Blue collar
756
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,345 75.6% 6.2%
Blue collar 756 24.4% 3.3%
Employer type
Self employees
8.5%
Private companies
53%
Governmental workers
29.3%
Not for profit companies
9.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 264 8.5% 69.2%
Private companies 1,644 53% 9.0%
Governmental workers 909 29.3% -21.1%
Not for profit companies 284 9.2% 130.9%
Unemployment rate
3.3%
28.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Brookings stands at 3.3%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Brookings

How people get around in Brookings

Commuting methods vary: 79% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 2,344 79% 4.8%
Ferryboat 23 0.8% -14.8%
Motorcycle 145 4.9% N/A
Walk 85 2.9% 2.4%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Brookings by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
97415 14,586 6,833 $69,152 $86,395

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FAQs about Brookings demographics 

What is the total population of Brookings?

Brookings has a total population of 6,703 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Brookings?

The gender ratio in Brookings is as follows:
  • 41.2% males (2,760 residents)
  • 58.8% females (3,943 residents)

What is the median age in Brookings?

The median age in Brookings is 50.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Brookings?

The age distribution in Brookings is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.3% (1,091 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 3.8% (255 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.7% (1,787 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.8% (1,797 residents)
  • Over 65: 26.4% (1,773 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Brookings?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Brookings is as follows:
  • White: 84.2% (5,644 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0% (1 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (43 residents)
  • Asian: 1.6% (108 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 12.9% (863 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (44 residents)

What percentage of the population in Brookings are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.9% of the population in Brookings.

How many housing units are there in Brookings?

There are 3,296 housing units in Brookings, reflecting a -4.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Brookings and what is the average household size?

Brookings has a total of 2,987 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Brookings?

Brookings has a median household income of $74,933, representing a +2.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Brookings?

The employment rate is 96.7% in Brookings, with a workforce of 3,101 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.6% (2,345 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.4% (756 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.5% (264 residents)
  • Private companies: 53% (1,644 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 29.3% (909 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.2% (284 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025