Let the numbers do the talking.
Brookings, SD vs Hot Springs, SD
Brookings, SD vs Hot Springs, SD: What the data shows
Brookings, SD is in Brookings, SD while Hot Springs, SD is in Hot Springs, SD — both in the same state. On home prices, Hot Springs, SD is the more affordable option at $184,000 median — $44,500 less than Brookings, SD's $228,500. WYLT rates Brookings, SD as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Hot Springs, SD as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Brookings, SD has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Hot Springs, SD has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Brookings, SD has Low flood risk and Hot Springs, SD has Low flood risk.
Brookings, SD is the more walkable neighborhood. Brookings, SD scores 44/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Hot Springs, SD's 20/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Brookings, SD has the higher school rating — Brookings, SD rates 5.7/10 and Hot Springs, SD rates 4.7/10.
| Category | Brookings, SD | Hot Springs, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $229K | $184K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $859 | $810 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $61K ✓ Higher income | $59K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 44/100 ✓ More walkable | 20/100 |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A |
| Commute | 30 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A | A |
| Violent Crime | Low | Low |
| Property Crime | Low | Low |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.7/10 ✓ Better schools | 4.7/10 |
| Best for | College students at the University of South DakotaRetirees looking for a quiet settingSmall families wanting a tight community | Retirees looking for a quiet, inexpensive place to settleBudget‑conscious renters or first‑time home buyersRemote workers who can handle limited local services |
Bottom line
For families and professionals seeking a community with a bit more to offer, Brookings is a slightly more favorable option due to its slightly stronger schools and shorter commute to Sioux Falls. For retirees and budget-conscious individuals prioritizing affordability, Hot Springs has a narrow edge. Ultimately, both neighborhoods have significant drawbacks and the right person for each place is the individual who can best accept its limitations.
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