Brookings County, SD demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
35,353
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$70,064/yr
4.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,179
1.0% year-over-year change

Brookings County population

How many people live in Brookings County

Brookings County is home to 35,353 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.9% of Brookings County locals are male, and 49.1% are female.

Total population
35,353
1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.9%
17,995
Female
49.1%
17,358
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,995 50.9% 0.7%
Female 17,358 49.1% 1.5%
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 County is 28, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.5% are children under 15, then 28.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24% of the population, while another 16.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
28
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.5%
15 to 24
28.2%
25 to 44
24%
45 to 64
16.9%
Over 65
13.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,190 17.5% 1.5%
15 to 24 9,969 28.2% 1.5%
25 to 44 8,471 24% 1.2%
45 to 64 5,987 16.9% -0.8%
Over 65 4,736 13.4% 1.9%
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 County, 92.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 4.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 87.9% of locals are Caucasian, 1.1% are African American and 3.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.4%
Non-citizens
4.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 32,555 92.1% 0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,204 3.4% 3.5%
Non-citizens 1,594 4.5% 19.4%
Racial breakdown
White
87.9%
Black or African American
1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.3%
Asian
3.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.4%
Other
2%
Value Percent
White 31,063 87.9%
Black or African American 401 1.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 460 1.3%
Asian 1,160 3.3%
Two or more races 1,572 4.4%
Other 697 2%

Households in Brookings County

A peek inside Brookings County households

Brookings County has 13,798 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 50.3% are families, while the remaining 49.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
13,798
2.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,856
Family households
6,942
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,856 49.7% 3.7%
Family households 6,942 50.3% 0.9%
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 County

The housing landscape of Brookings County

Brookings County's housing consists of 15,179 units, with 57.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 7.6% 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 6.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,179
1.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,784 57.9%
1 unit, attached 1,153 7.6%
2 units 340 2.2%
3 or 4 units 533 3.5%
5 to 9 units 1,145 7.5%
10 to 19 units 1,009 6.6%
20 to 49 units 937 6.2%
50 or more units 339 2.2%
Mobile home 928 6.1%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 11 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
359
117.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Brookings County

In Brookings County, the median construction year is 1983. About 16.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 17.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,469 16.3% 12.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 399 2.6% -25.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 843 5.6% -8.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,443 9.5% 16.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,148 14.2% -5.7%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,064 7% -3.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,533 10.1% -11.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,249 14.8% -2.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,672 17.6% 4.1%
Built in 2020 or later 359 2.4% 117.6%
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 County occupancy rates

Out of the 13,798 occupied housing units in Brookings County, 57.2% are owner-occupied, while 42.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
13,798
2.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
5,902
Owner occupied
7,896
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 5,902 42.8% 6.4%
Owner occupied 7,896 57.2% -0.6%
Unoccupied housing units
9.1%
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 County housing costs

Housing costs in Brookings County come to a median of $1,027 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $901.

Median housing costs per month
$1,027/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 County
$901/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 County

Brookings County education at a glance

About 24.2% of the population in Brookings County went to high school, while 32.9% pursued college studies. Another 8.6% earned an associate degree and 23.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 312 1.1% 15.1%
High school diploma 6,741 24.2% 2.5%
College diploma 9,166 32.9% 3.0%
Associate degree 2,396 8.6% 6.5%
Bachelor's degree 6,505 23.3% -3.2%
Graduate degree 2,778 10% -3.3%
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 County

How much people earn in Brookings County

The average annual household income in Brookings County was $89,400 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $70,064, reflecting a +4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Brookings County
$89,400/year
1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Brookings County
$70,064/year
4.0% year-over-year change

Brookings County income by age

In Brookings County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $87,288. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $101,136 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $38,698, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $57,114 in earnings. Overall, 86.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $38,698 -1.8%
25 - 44 $87,288 3.1%
45 - 64 $101,136 0.7%
Over 65 $57,114 3.9%
Above poverty level
27,536
Below poverty level
4,236
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 27,536 86.7% 0.6%
Below poverty level 4,236 13.3% 4.8%

Employment in Brookings County

Workforce and job types in Brookings County

The job market in Brookings County is powered by 19,061 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 74.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.3% run their own businesses, 62.5% are employed by private companies, and 21.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
19,061
-0.0% year-over-year change
White collar
14,262
Blue collar
4,799
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 14,262 74.8% -0.9%
Blue collar 4,799 25.2% 2.7%
Employer type
Self employees
9.3%
Private companies
62.5%
Governmental workers
21.1%
Not for profit companies
7.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,778 9.3% 1.5%
Private companies 11,913 62.5% 1.1%
Governmental workers 4,024 21.1% -7.0%
Not for profit companies 1,346 7.1% 12.1%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
3.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Brookings County stands at 3.8%, 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 County

How people get around in Brookings County

In Brookings County, the average commute time is 14 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
14 min
3.6% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 15,438 83.1% -1.2%
Bus or trolleybus 84 0.4% -18.4%
Motorcycle 46 0.2% -9.8%
Bicycle 176 1% 6.7%
Walk 720 3.9% 12.8%
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 County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
57026 1,531 563 $80,568 $83,987
57268 435 212 $76,250 $90,025
57276 942 445 $67,639 $89,321
57002 1,674 716 $93,214 $105,414
57006 24,192 10,124 $66,337 $86,696
57061 215 75 $56,875 $72,165
57071 3,149 1,278 $77,138 $86,846
57212 1,819 770 $93,750 $102,034
57213 505 151 $81,932 $86,858
57220 665 315 $86,094 $116,105

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Brookings County demographics 

What is the total population of Brookings County?

Brookings County has a total population of 35,353 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 +1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Brookings County?

The gender ratio in Brookings County is as follows:
  • 50.9% males (17,995 residents)
  • 49.1% females (17,358 residents)

What is the median age in Brookings County?

The median age in Brookings County is 28.

What is the age distribution of the population in Brookings County?

The age distribution in Brookings County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.5% (6,190 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 28.2% (9,969 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24% (8,471 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 16.9% (5,987 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.4% (4,736 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Brookings County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Brookings County is as follows:
  • White: 87.9% (31,063 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.1% (401 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.3% (460 residents)
  • Asian: 3.3% (1,160 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.4% (1,572 residents)
  • Other: 2% (697 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.1% of the population in Brookings County.

How many housing units are there in Brookings County?

There are 15,179 housing units in Brookings County, reflecting a +1.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Brookings County has a total of 13,798 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Brookings County?

Brookings County has a median household income of $70,064, representing a +4.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.2% in Brookings County, with a workforce of 19,061 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 74.8% (14,262 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25.2% (4,799 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.3% (1,778 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.5% (11,913 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 21.1% (4,024 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.1% (1,346 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