Let the numbers do the talking.
Brookings, SD vs Yankton, SD
Brookings, SD vs Yankton, SD: What the data shows
Brookings, SD is in Brookings, SD while Yankton, SD is in Yankton, SD — both in the same state. On home prices, Yankton, SD is the more affordable option at $198,600 median — $29,900 less than Brookings, SD's $228,500. WYLT rates Brookings, SD as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Yankton, 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. Yankton, SD has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Brookings, SD has Low flood risk and Yankton, SD has Low flood risk.
Brookings, SD is the more walkable neighborhood. Brookings, SD scores 44/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Yankton, SD's 18/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Yankton, SD has the higher school rating — Brookings, SD rates 5.7/10 and Yankton, SD rates 6.3/10.
| Category | Brookings, SD | Yankton, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Good for now |
| Median Price | $229K | $199K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $859 | $760 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $61K | $67K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 44/100 ✓ More walkable | 18/100 |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 1/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 1/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 30 min | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| 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 | 6.3/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | College students at the University of South DakotaRetirees looking for a quiet settingSmall families wanting a tight community | Families looking for a low‑cost, safe environmentRetirees wanting a quiet communityRemote workers who value low housing costs |
Bottom line
If you value a tighter-knit community and prefer the convenience of commuting to nearby Sioux Falls for work or amenities, Brookings might be a better fit. However, if you're looking for an affordable, laid-back setting with minimal traffic and low housing costs, Yankton could be a more suitable choice, despite some drawbacks in walkability and nightlife. Ultimately, Brookings is ideal for those who prioritize a quiet setting and flexibility for longer commutes, while Yankton suits families and remote workers seeking an extremely low-cost lifestyle.
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