Let the numbers do the talking.
Brookings, SD vs Dell Rapids, SD
Brookings, SD vs Dell Rapids, SD: What the data shows
Brookings, SD is in Brookings, SD while Dell Rapids, SD is in Dell Rapids, SD — both in the same state. On home prices, Brookings, SD is the more affordable option at $228,500 median — $44,800 less than Dell Rapids, SD's $273,300. WYLT rates Brookings, SD as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Dell Rapids, SD as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Brookings, SD has the stronger safety profile of the two. Brookings, SD has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Dell Rapids, SD has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Brookings, SD has Low flood risk and Dell Rapids, SD has Low flood risk.
Brookings, SD is the more walkable neighborhood. Brookings, SD scores 44/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Dell Rapids, SD's 11/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Brookings, SD has the higher school rating — Brookings, SD rates 5.7/10 and Dell Rapids, SD rates 3.9/10.
| Category | Brookings, SD | Dell Rapids, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $229K ✓ Lower price | $273K |
| Median Rent | $859 ✓ Lower rent | $918 |
| Median Income | $61K | $87K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 44/100 ✓ More walkable | 11/100 |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 35 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | B |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.7/10 ✓ Better schools | 3.9/10 |
| Best for | College students at the University of South DakotaRetirees looking for a quiet settingSmall families wanting a tight community | Families with childrenRetirees seeking a quiet communityRemote workers with good internet |
Bottom line
If you prioritize a tight-knit community and are willing to commute to Sioux Falls for work or amenities, Brookings might be the better choice. However, if you have school-age children and prefer a quiet environment with more affordable housing, Dell Rapids is a more suitable option. Ultimately, Brookings offers a slightly higher quality of life, but Dell Rapids provides more stability and better schools.
Share this comparison