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

Total population
23,948
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,493/yr
2.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,984
1.1% year-over-year change

Brookings population

How many people live in Brookings

Brookings is home to 23,948 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.2% of Brookings locals are male, and 49.8% are female.

Total population
23,948
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.2%
12,032
Female
49.8%
11,916
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,032 50.2% 0.6%
Female 11,916 49.8% 1.4%
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 25, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.8% are children under 15, then 35% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.4% of the population, while another 13.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
24.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.8%
15 to 24
35%
25 to 44
23.4%
45 to 64
13.8%
Over 65
12.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,788 15.8% 1.6%
15 to 24 8,375 35% -0.2%
25 to 44 5,591 23.4% 0.3%
45 to 64 3,306 13.8% 1.0%
Over 65 2,888 12.1% 5.2%
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, 90.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 86.5% of locals are Caucasian, 1.2% are African American and 4.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.7%
Non-citizens
5.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 21,743 90.8% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 887 3.7% -1.9%
Non-citizens 1,318 5.5% 21.7%
Racial breakdown
White
86.5%
Black or African American
1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.5%
Asian
4.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.4%
Other
1.8%
Value Percent
White 20,715 86.5%
Black or African American 293 1.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 356 1.5%
Asian 1,096 4.6%
Two or more races 1,064 4.4%
Other 424 1.8%

Households in Brookings

A peek inside Brookings households

Brookings has 9,145 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 42.2% are families, while the remaining 57.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,145
3.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,281
Family households
3,864
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,281 57.8% 4.0%
Family households 3,864 42.2% 2.1%
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 9,984 units, with 45.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.7% 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 6.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,984
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,582 45.9%
1 unit, attached 967 9.7%
2 units 308 3.1%
3 or 4 units 410 4.1%
5 to 9 units 885 8.9%
10 to 19 units 980 9.8%
20 to 49 units 877 8.8%
50 or more units 332 3.3%
Mobile home 643 6.4%
Homes built since 2020
157
68.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Brookings

In Brookings, the median construction year is 1986. About 13.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 18.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,321 13.2% 30.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 224 2.2% -32.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 605 6.1% -7.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,105 11.1% 18.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,306 13.1% -12.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 737 7.4% -2.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,162 11.6% -4.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,564 15.7% -3.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,803 18.1% 2.0%
Built in 2020 or later 157 1.6% 68.8%
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 9,145 occupied housing units in Brookings, 47.7% are owner-occupied, while 52.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,145
3.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,780
Owner occupied
4,365
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,780 52.3% 4.8%
Owner occupied 4,365 47.7% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
8.4%
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 $1,017 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $889.

Median housing costs per month
$1,017/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
$889/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 21% of the population in Brookings went to high school, while 38.3% pursued college studies. Another 6.3% earned an associate degree and 23.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 125 0.6% -6.0%
High school diploma 4,103 21% 5.3%
College diploma 7,461 38.3% 2.8%
Associate degree 1,221 6.3% 10.9%
Bachelor's degree 4,531 23.2% -3.7%
Graduate degree 2,059 10.6% -3.7%
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 $82,664 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,493, reflecting a +2.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Brookings
$82,664/year
1.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Brookings
$63,493/year
2.4% 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 $79,196. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $95,488 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,528, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $53,482 in earnings. Overall, 82.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,528 1.0%
25 - 44 $79,196 -1.8%
45 - 64 $95,488 7.9%
Over 65 $53,482 0.2%
Above poverty level
17,045
Below poverty level
3,520
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 17,045 82.9% -0.1%
Below poverty level 3,520 17.1% 7.6%

Average renter income in Brookings

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Brookings, their median household income was $45,081 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 23.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$45,081
Rent-to-income ratio
23.7%
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 13,028 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.1% run their own businesses, 60.5% are employed by private companies, and 23.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
13,028
-0.6% year-over-year change
White collar
9,938
Blue collar
3,090
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,938 76.3% -1.8%
Blue collar 3,090 23.7% 3.8%
Employer type
Self employees
8.1%
Private companies
60.5%
Governmental workers
23.5%
Not for profit companies
7.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,060 8.1% 15.3%
Private companies 7,878 60.5% -0.6%
Governmental workers 3,058 23.5% -9.0%
Not for profit companies 1,032 7.9% 14.7%
Unemployment rate
4.5%
2.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Brookings stands at 4.5%, 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

In Brookings, the average commute time is 12 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.1% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
12 min
5.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 10,448 83.1% -2.5%
Bus or trolleybus 57 0.4% -21.9%
Bicycle 137 1.1% 5.4%
Walk 603 4.8% 7.1%
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
57006 24,192 10,124 $66,337 $86,696

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FAQs about Brookings demographics 

What is the total population of Brookings?

Brookings has a total population of 23,948 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Brookings?

The gender ratio in Brookings is as follows:
  • 50.2% males (12,032 residents)
  • 49.8% females (11,916 residents)

What is the median age in Brookings?

The median age in Brookings is 24.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Brookings?

The age distribution in Brookings is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.8% (3,788 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 35% (8,375 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.4% (5,591 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 13.8% (3,306 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.1% (2,888 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Brookings?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Brookings is as follows:
  • White: 86.5% (20,715 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.2% (293 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.5% (356 residents)
  • Asian: 4.6% (1,096 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.4% (1,064 residents)
  • Other: 1.8% (424 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.8% of the population in Brookings.

How many housing units are there in Brookings?

There are 9,984 housing units in Brookings, reflecting a +1.1% 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 9,145 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Brookings?

Brookings has a median household income of $63,493, representing a +2.4% 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 95.5% in Brookings, with a workforce of 13,028 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.3% (9,938 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.7% (3,090 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.1% (1,060 residents)
  • Private companies: 60.5% (7,878 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23.5% (3,058 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.9% (1,032 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