Mechanical Engineer Salary in Brookings, South Dakota
The median mechanical engineer salary in Brookings, SD is $82,827 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 2.3% below the South Dakota state average.
Mechanical Engineer Pay in Brookings: What to Expect (2026)
Brookings offers a median mechanical engineer salary of $82,827, which is $1,926 below the South Dakota state average of $84,753. Compared to the national median of $96,310, 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 $82,827 salary stretches further here — equivalent to roughly $96,310 in an average-cost city. This makes Brookings an attractive option for mechanical engineers seeking strong real-dollar compensation.
The salary range for mechanical engineers in Brookings spans from $54,524 at the 10th percentile to $125,732 at the 90th percentile — a $71,208 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $55,900, while senior mechanical engineers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $118,680. Brookings is a smaller market (pop. 24,194), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Mechanical Engineer Salary in Brookings by Experience
In Brookings, an entry-level mechanical engineer earns around $55,900, while experienced professionals earn up to $118,680 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Brookings, SD
| Percentile | Brookings |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $54,524 |
| 25th Percentile | $67,768 |
| Median (50th) | $82,827 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,856 |
| 90th Percentile | $125,732 |
Mechanical Engineer Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Mechanical Engineer in Brookings
Education
Most mechanical engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. Brookings and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, mechanical engineer employment is projected to grow 2% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Brookings may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Brookings
Browse open mechanical engineer positions in Brookings, SD: