Dental Assistant Salary in Brookings, South Dakota
The median dental assistant salary in Brookings, SD is $36,559 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 2.3% below the South Dakota state average.
Dental Assistant Pay in Brookings: What to Expect (2026)
Brookings offers a median dental assistant salary of $36,559, which is $850 below the South Dakota state average of $37,409. Compared to the national median of $42,510, 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 $36,559 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $42,510 in an average-cost city. This makes Brookings an attractive option for dental assistants seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for dental assistants in Brookings spans from $25,800 at the 10th percentile to $51,600 at the 90th percentile — a $25,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $26,660, while senior dental assistants with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $49,880. Brookings is a smaller market (pop. 24,194), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Dental Assistant Salary in Brookings by Experience
In Brookings, an entry-level dental assistant earns around $26,660, while experienced professionals earn up to $49,880 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 | $30,100 |
| Median (50th) | $36,559 |
| 75th Percentile | $44,720 |
| 90th Percentile | $51,600 |
Dental Assistant Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Brookings
Education
Most dental assistant positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Brookings and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, dental assistant employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Brookings may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Dental Assistant Jobs in Brookings
Browse open dental assistant positions in Brookings, SD: