Broadcast Journalist Salary in Brookings, South Dakota
The median broadcast journalist salary in Brookings, SD is $44,720 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 2.3% below the South Dakota state average.
Broadcast Journalist Pay in Brookings: What to Expect (2026)
Brookings offers a median broadcast journalist salary of $44,720, which is $1,040 below the South Dakota state average of $45,760. Compared to the national median of $52,000, 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 $44,720 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $52,000 in an average-cost city. This makes Brookings an attractive option for broadcast journalists seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for broadcast journalists in Brookings spans from $25,800 at the 10th percentile to $86,000 at the 90th percentile — a $60,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $28,380, while senior broadcast journalists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $81,700. Brookings is a smaller market (pop. 24,194), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Broadcast Journalist Salary in Brookings by Experience
In Brookings, an entry-level broadcast journalist earns around $28,380, while experienced professionals earn up to $81,700 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Brookings, SD
| Percentile | Brookings |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $25,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $32,680 |
| Median (50th) | $44,720 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,640 |
| 90th Percentile | $86,000 |
Broadcast Journalist Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Broadcast Journalist in Brookings
Education
Most broadcast journalist positions require a bachelor's degree. Brookings and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, broadcast journalist employment is projected to grow -4% over the next decade (decline). Demand in Brookings may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Broadcast Journalist Jobs in Brookings
Browse open broadcast journalist positions in Brookings, SD: