Agriculture & Environment Brookings, SD
Pop. 24,194
Park Ranger Salary in Brookings, South Dakota
The median park ranger salary in Brookings, SD is $36,550 per year, which is 14% below the national median and 2.3% below the South Dakota state average.
City Median
$36,550
vs State Avg
$-850
vs National
$-5,950
Cost of Living
86%
Park Ranger Salary in Brookings by Experience
In Brookings, an entry-level park ranger earns around $25,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $58,480 per year. The local cost of living index is 86% of the national average.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$25,800
$-4,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$37,840
$-6,160 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$58,480
$-9,520 vs national
Salary Percentiles in Brookings, SD
| Percentile | Brookings |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $24,080 |
| 25th Percentile | $29,240 |
| Median (50th) | $36,550 |
| 75th Percentile | $49,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $61,920 |
Park Ranger Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Park Ranger in Brookings
Education
Most park ranger positions require a bachelor's degree. Brookings and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
ConservationLaw EnforcementPublic EducationWildlife ManagementEmergency ResponseOutdoor Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, park ranger employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Brookings may vary based on local industry and population growth.