Let the numbers do the talking.
Brookings, SD vs Pierre, SD
Brookings, SD vs Pierre, SD: What the data shows
Brookings, SD is in Brookings, SD while Pierre, SD is in Pierre, SD — both in the same state. On home prices, Pierre, SD is the more affordable option at $218,500 median — $10,000 less than Brookings, SD's $228,500. WYLT rates Brookings, SD as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Pierre, 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. Pierre, SD has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Brookings, SD has Low flood risk and Pierre, SD has Low flood risk.
Brookings, SD is the more walkable neighborhood. Brookings, SD scores 44/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Pierre, SD's 6/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Pierre, SD has the higher school rating — Brookings, SD rates 5.7/10 and Pierre, SD rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Brookings, SD | Pierre, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $229K | $219K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $859 ✓ Lower rent | $921 |
| Median Income | $61K | $84K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 44/100 ✓ More walkable | 6/100 |
| 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 | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.7/10 | 6.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | College students at the University of South DakotaRetirees looking for a quiet settingSmall families wanting a tight community | Families seeking affordable housingRemote workers who can work from homeBudget-conscious buyers |
Bottom line
Both Brookings and Pierre are suitable for families seeking low cost of living and affordable housing, but Pierre is marginally better in this regard due to its lower median home price. For retirees or small families wanting a quiet, close-knit community, Brookings is a better fit due to its more robust college town amenities and nearby Sioux Falls commute access. Overall, Brookings offers more variety and connectivity for those willing to commute.
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