Brookings’ Growth Beyond the Basics

Brookings’ Growth Beyond the Basics Main Photo

24 Oct 2024


News

Brookings, South Dakota, has been steadily growing, and this growth isn’t just about more people living in the area. The story of Brookings is one of economic opportunities, driven by a dynamic job market, an influx of new residents seeking better career prospects, and the presence of South Dakota State University (SDSU). All these factors combine to create a thriving community that is expanding in ways that go beyond traditional population increases. This article aims to highlight how Brookings’ growth is influenced by much more than simple demographic changes. By understanding the various forces at play, we can appreciate the broader economic and social impacts that are shaping the future of Brookings.

When we talk about growth, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t happen by accident. Brookings has benefited from a variety of deliberate efforts by local businesses, city planners, and institutions like SDSU, all of which have worked together to create an environment where both people and companies can succeed. Whether it’s new job opportunities, community-focused economic development, or the migration of young professionals, these factors are helping to transform Brookings into a destination for workers, students, and families alike. By taking a closer look at these drivers of growth, we can better understand how Brookings has positioned itself for continued success in the years ahead.

Job Growth and Low Unemployment 


One of the clearest signs of Brookings’ growth can be seen in its strong job market. In 2023, the county’s unemployment rate was 2%, a full 1.5% lower than the national average. This is a significant difference, especially considering the broader economic challenges that many regions in the United States have faced over the past few years. Low unemployment means that most people who want to work in Brookings can find jobs, and this is a positive indicator of the overall health of the local economy. When businesses are hiring and people are working, the entire community benefits from increased economic activity and stability.

But the story doesn’t end with low unemployment. Brookings has also seen steady job growth, with the number of employed people in the county increasing year-over-year by 2.19%. In April 2024, there were 19,490 employed residents, and projections indicate that this number will rise to 19,917 by April 2025. This growth isn’t just happening in one or two industries; it’s spread across a range of sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and retail. The 2024 Brookings Area Business Survey supports this, showing that 47% of respondent businesses reported they were increasing their workforce. This consistent growth highlights the city’s economic resilience and ability to adapt to changing market conditions.

One of the things that makes Brookings’ job market notable is how it reflects the broader economic development efforts in the area. The city and its businesses are working together to create a welcoming environment for new companies, while also supporting existing ones as they expand. This collaboration between public and private sectors has helped Brookings maintain its competitive edge, even in the face of national economic uncertainties. For Brookings, job growth is more than just a statistic. It’s a sign that the city’s economy is on solid footing, with the potential for even greater expansion in the years ahead.

Population Growth 


At first glance, it might be tempting to assume that Brookings’ population growth is primarily due to an increase in birth rates. However, a closer look at the data reveals a different story. While birth rates in Brookings stood at 1.8% over the past year, the city’s overall population grew by 4.03%. This means that much of the population increase comes from people moving to Brookings, not just from new births. In fact, birth rates in Brookings are significantly lower than the state average of 6.4%, which makes it clear that migration is playing a much larger role in the city’s expansion.  

So why are so many people choosing to move to Brookings? The answer lies in the economic opportunities and quality of life that the city offers. With a strong job market, excellent educational institutions, and a welcoming community atmosphere, Brookings has become an attractive destination for workers and their families. People from across South Dakota and beyond are relocating to Brookings to take advantage of the city’s low unemployment, growing industries, and affordable cost of living. This migration of workers to the city is helping to fuel the local economy, as new residents contribute to everything from housing demand to retail sales.

Brookings’ population growth isn’t just about attracting any kind of worker. The city has become a hub for young professionals, many of whom are drawn to the area because of the opportunities in education, healthcare, and high-tech industries. This influx of skilled workers is helping to diversify Brookings’ workforce and strengthen the local economy. As more people move to the city, they bring new ideas, energy, and skills, all of which contribute to Brookings’ continued success. In this way, the city’s growth is much more than simple population numbers. It’s about creating a dynamic, thriving community where people want to live, work, and invest in the future. 

The College Effect  


One of the unique aspects of Brookings’ growth is the presence of South Dakota State University, which has a large impact on the city’s economy and population. As a major public research university, SDSU attracts students, faculty, and staff from across the country, many of whom choose to stay in Brookings after they graduate. This continuous influx of young people, particularly those aged 20 to 24, has helped shape the city’s demographic landscape, as well as its economic development. With 12,065 students enrolled at SDSU for the Fall ’24 semester, the university plays a critical role in Brookings’ growth.

The impact of SDSU on Brookings goes beyond just student numbers. The university also serves as a major employer in the region, providing jobs not only to faculty and staff but also to students and graduates. Many local businesses benefit from the talent pool that SDSU provides, with students often working part-time jobs in the community while they complete their studies. This close relationship between the university and local businesses has created a mutually beneficial ecosystem, where both entities support each other’s growth. As a result, Brookings has become a city where education and economic development are closely intertwined.

SDSU’s presence in Brookings has helped foster innovation and entrepreneurship in the city. The university is home to the Research Park at SDSU, which provides opportunities for students, faculty, and local businesses to collaborate on cutting-edge research and development projects. This focus on innovation has attracted new businesses to the area, particularly in fields like engineering, agriculture, and technology. By supporting both academic and business growth, SDSU has played a key role in positioning Brookings as a leader in research and development, further driving the city’s economic expansion.

Supporting Growth Through Community Efforts 


Brookings’ growth isn’t just happening on its own. It’s the result of deliberate, community-focused efforts to create a city that is welcoming to both businesses and residents. One of the key players in this process is the Brookings Economic Development Corporation (BEDC), which works to attract new companies to the area and support existing ones as they expand. The BEDC collaborates closely with the city government, local businesses, and SDSU to ensure that Brookings remains a competitive and attractive destination for economic development.

One of the ways the BEDC has supported growth is by focusing on improving the city’s infrastructure. This includes everything from transportation and utilities to housing and commercial development. By investing in these areas, the city has made it easier for businesses to operate and for residents to enjoy a high quality of life. For example, the Research Park at SDSU provides state-of-the-art facilities for companies involved in research and innovation, helping to attract high-tech industries to the region. In addition to infrastructure improvements, Brookings has made significant efforts to address workforce retention and development. Housing and childcare are two areas that have received special attention, as both are critical to ensuring that Brookings can continue to attract and retain workers. The city has worked to increase the availability of affordable housing, particularly for young families and professionals, while also expanding childcare options to support working parents. These efforts are helping to create a community where people can thrive both personally and professionally, further driving Brookings’ growth and success. 

About The Author

Nathan Doll's Profile Photo

Nathan Doll

Research and Data Analyst

Department: Staff

Nathan is the Research and Data Analyst for the Brookings Economic Development Corporation. In this role, he guides strategic initiatives for regional economic growth by delivering critical insights and data-driven analysis. His expertise ensures that decisions are rooted in solid evidence, fostering sustainable development in the area. Nathan graduated from South Dakota State University with a Bachelor of Science degree. He has completed a plethora of trainings and attended a number of webinars on data analysis, specifically focusing on regional growth and economic impact. Nathan is proficient in IMPLAN for economic impact analysis, Lightcast for labor market insights, and GIS software for spatial data visualization. 

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