Lawyer Salary in Brookings, South Dakota
The median lawyer salary in Brookings, SD is $116,736 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 2.3% below the South Dakota state average.
Lawyer Pay in Brookings: What to Expect (2026)
Brookings offers a median lawyer salary of $116,736, which is $2,715 below the South Dakota state average of $119,451. Compared to the national median of $135,740, 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 $116,736 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $135,740 in an average-cost city. This makes Brookings an attractive option for lawyers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for lawyers in Brookings spans from $55,900 at the 10th percentile to $205,712 at the 90th percentile — a $149,812 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $60,200, while senior lawyers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $189,200. Brookings is a smaller market (pop. 24,194), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Lawyer Salary in Brookings by Experience
In Brookings, an entry-level lawyer earns around $60,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $189,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Brookings, SD
| Percentile | Brookings |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $55,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $73,100 |
| Median (50th) | $116,736 |
| 75th Percentile | $159,960 |
| 90th Percentile | $205,712 |
Lawyer Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Lawyer in Brookings
Education
Most lawyer positions require a doctoral degree. Brookings and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, lawyer 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 Lawyer Jobs in Brookings
Browse open lawyer positions in Brookings, SD: