South Dakota State helps shape the culture of Brookings
Home to South Dakota State University, Brookings is the fourth-largest city in the state. Its current population is about 24,000 — a number that continues to rise as college enrollment increases each year. The school also serves as Brookings’ largest employer and a cultural center on the event calendar. “It’s not a big city, but there are still a few things to do around here,” says 35-year resident Shane Andersen, team lead of the Brookings Home Team of Century 21 Krogman and Company. “South Dakota State is one of our biggest employers. They’re a Division I school, and you can’t live here without being a fan.” In football, the SDSU Jackrabbits have won two FCS national championships in the past three years.
Home to South Dakota State University, Brookings is the fourth-largest city in the state.
South Dakota State University serves as Brookings’ largest employer and a cultural center on the event calendar.
1/2
Retro hangouts on Main Avenue, like Nick's
Main Avenue is downtown Brookings’ epicenter for shopping and dining. Boutiques and restaurants fill the century-old storefronts, and classic spots include Nick’s Hamburger Shop, which has been open since 1929. Their slider-style burgers no longer cost 5 cents, but the current price of $2 is still appealing to hungry college students. “They’re little slider burgers that are deep fried in fat,” Andersen says, pointing to the famous tagline: "Buy ’em by the bag.” Jackrabbits also make the trip from campus to downtown for watering holes like Cubby’s Sports Bar and Grill. Big-box stores include Walmart and Lowe's between I-29 and the university.
Savor handcrafted dishes made with care at Nick's Hamburger Shop in Brookings.
Sip, socialize, and enjoy at Cubby's Sports Bar & Grill in Brookings.
1/2
Student and community participation in Hobo Day
While residents of Brookings support the Jackrabbits year-round, the community’s college-town energy is most apparent on Hobo Day, South Dakota State’s homecoming celebration. The October event includes a parade with students dressed like vagabonds, capped off by the ceremonial “Grand Pooba” of the parade riding a 1912 Model T known as the “Bummobile.” A Jackrabbits football game follows. “The shops and everybody really get into it, as far as painting their windows and that sort of college atmosphere,” Andersen says. “The college students go all out for the parade. You see some creative floats for the theme.” Beyond athletics and parades, residents can check out the South Dakota Art Museum or the interactive displays at the Children’s Museum of South Dakota.
Students follow one pipeline in Brookings School District
Students can attend the Brookings School District, which receives an overall B-minus grade from Niche. The district’s three elementary schools each serve kindergarten through third grade, but all students attend fourth and fifth grade at Camelot Intermediate, followed by Mickelson Middle and Brookings High. The high school offers 11 Advanced Placement courses, plus a dual-enrollment drone flight course through Lake Area Technical College. South Dakota State University enrolls over 12,000 students.
Students can attend the Brookings School District, which receives an overall B-minus grade from Niche.
Camelot Intermediate School is easily accessible in the Brookings area.
1/2
Early 20th century neighborhoods and more recent subdivisions
Residential areas near downtown Brookings are laid out in a grid. Homes can date back to the early 20th century, with bungalows, farmhouses and ranch-style homes most common. While few have come on the market recently, prices generally range from $275,000 to $300,000. South of the train tracks that bisect the city, neighborhoods look more suburban, with gently curving roads and larger plots of land. Homes there are often new traditional, though cabin-style retreats are also available. Prices here range from $750,000 to $1 million. Many houses near South Dakota State University are rented out to students, while several apartment complexes are also available.
Many houses near South Dakota State University in Brookings are rented out to students, while several apartment complexes are also available.
Brookings homes can date back to the early 20th century, with bungalows, farmhouses and ranch-style homes being the most common.
1/2
City parks and university spaces for recreation
Between city parks and university spaces, Brookings has plenty of recreation. The Edgebrook Golf Club has an 18-hole public course and a practice facility. Other city parks include the Dakota Nature Park, with paths around several lakes that double as cross-country ski trails during winter, and the adjacent Southbrook Softball Complex. McCrory Gardens, an arboretum owned by SDSU, is best known for TuliPalooza, a springtime event when more than 25,000 tulips bloom simultaneously.
Quiet charm and peaceful views await at Dakota Nature Park in Brookings.
Dakota Nature Park, with paths around several lakes that double as cross-country ski trails during winter, and the adjacent Southbrook Softball Complex in Brookings.
1/2
I-29 leads south to Sioux Falls
Interstate 29, the main highway to and from Brookings, runs on the east side of the city. Sioux Falls is the region’s largest city, roughly 60 miles south. While most residents drive, the Brookings Area Transit Authority serves the city with its demand-response system. Rides generally cost a nominal fee. Additionally, the Rabbit Ride system offers free transportation on Friday and Saturday nights for university students, though it is also available to the general public. Brookings Regional Airport is located within the city but does not carry commercial flights; residents generally fly in and out of Sioux Falls Regional Airport.
Written By
Brendan Doyle
Photography Contributed By
Seth Johanson
Video By
Taylor Gilbert
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Suzie Bunkers,
an experienced agent in this area.
THIS IS THE BRANCH CREEK MODEL HOME! Once the Branch Creek Development is complete, this home will be available for purchase. Until then, this 2 Story Townhome, known as the POPLAR PLAN, will showcase the 6 Style Selection Packages that are available to Buyers. This MODEL HOME will allow you to SEE THE QUALITY & DESIGN first hand, checkout the Kitchen Appliances & Washer/Dryer that are included
Don't miss this Stunning 5 Bedroom, 4 Bathroom Custom Home by BK Home Builders with Endless Features!Step into 19 Ft. Ceilings and a Beautiful Stone Fireplace! The Kitchen hosts Quartz Tops, Marble Backsplash, Elegant Lighting, and a Walk-in Pantry. You'll Love the Mudroom with Cubbies and Main Floor Laundry with Sink! The Main Floor Primary Suite is a Haven with a Primary Bath featuring
Check out this Charmer on Elmwood Drive that is as Cute as they come! Featuring 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, and a Dream Backyard, this 2 Story Home has Modern Updates and great Function! You'll Love the Galley-Style Kitchen with Back Yard Views, Spacious Dining Area and Flexible Spaces to Relax or Entertain. Enjoy Main Floor Laundry and Easy Access to the Large Back Yard. Upstairs hosts 4 Bedrooms,
Capture the Lifestyle at Prairie Hills and the convenience to Brookings newest school. These residential building lots offer open, common areas with extended views and the amenities of a Master Planned Development. See photos & documents for more available lots & pricing. AGENTS: Please see attached documents for the covenants, fencing, shed & outdoor play structure guidelines, lot map, general
This well-kept 3-bedroom, 1-bath mobile home is located in a prime spot right in Brookings. Appliances are included, making it move-in ready and affordable. Enjoy convenient access to everything in town and a quiet park setting. Lot rent is $320/month. Buyers must be approved by the park prior to moving in. Call today!
CHARMING REVIVAL IN THE HEART OF TOWN! This 1912 TWO-STORY HOME has been thoughtfully restored by a Community Development Corporation—transformed from unlivable to lovable! The exterior was freshly painted in 2024, and the old hot water heat system was replaced with BRAND NEW HVAC—FURNACE & CENTRAL AIR. Asbestos was removed, walls opened up, and a bright, SPACIOUS KITCHEN added with stunning
Get ready to experience the epitome of senior living at Forte of Brookings, where community, culture, and comfort come together seamlessly. Indulge in a vibrant community life with amenities like a pickleball court, a state-of-the-art movie theater, and outdoor areas for both you and your furry companions. Stay active in our fitness room, then unwind in the tranquility of our garden boxes and
Welcome to Sweetgrass Crossing, an inviting apartment community for residents wanting a comfortable place to call home. Located in Brookings, South Dakota, Sweetgrass Crossings calming ambiance offers a serene getaway from the chaos of day-to-day life. From our spacious floor plans, stainless steel appliances, and pet-friendly apartments, to our friendly and helpful staff, we make it easy for you
Wilmot Estates Apartments in Brookings, SD offer studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom options designed for residents seeking comfort, convenience, and a connected community.Our apartments feature open-concept layouts with modern finishes, natural light, and access to large common areas ideal for relaxing or entertaining. Residents also enjoy two fitness spaces, designed to support busy
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
