Athletic Trainer Salary in Brookings, South Dakota
The median athletic trainer salary in Brookings, SD is $46,302 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 2.3% below the South Dakota state average.
Athletic Trainer Pay in Brookings: What to Expect (2026)
Brookings offers a median athletic trainer salary of $46,302, which is $1,077 below the South Dakota state average of $47,379. Compared to the national median of $53,840, Brookings pays below the national benchmark for this role.
One of Brookings's biggest advantages is its low cost of living at 86% of the national average. This means the $46,302 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $53,840 in an average-cost city. This makes Brookings an attractive option for athletic trainers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for athletic trainers in Brookings spans from $29,240 at the 10th percentile to $70,520 at the 90th percentile — a $41,280 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $30,960, while senior athletic trainers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $67,080. Brookings is a smaller market (pop. 24,194), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Athletic Trainer Salary in Brookings by Experience
In Brookings, an entry-level athletic trainer earns around $30,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $67,080 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Brookings, SD
| Percentile | Brookings |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $29,240 |
| 25th Percentile | $36,120 |
| Median (50th) | $46,302 |
| 75th Percentile | $58,480 |
| 90th Percentile | $70,520 |
Athletic Trainer Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Athletic Trainer in Brookings
Education
Most athletic trainer positions require a bachelor's degree. Brookings and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, athletic trainer employment is projected to grow 17% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Brookings may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Athletic Trainer Jobs in Brookings
Browse open athletic trainer positions in Brookings, SD: