| Statistic | Brookings | South Dakota | National |
| Population | 24,479 | 884,659 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,799 | 12 | 91 |
| Median age | 24.5 | 36.8 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 1.1:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 37% | 59% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 50% | 44% | 43% |
| Speak English | 91% | 94% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 2% | 2% | 13% |
The demographics of Brookings offer invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of both urban and rural areas, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to foster prosperity, equity, and well-being for all residents. With a population of 24,479, Brookings exhibits a population density of 1,799 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 24.5, with 37% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 50% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Brookings, 22% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 13% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.
Recognizing the racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown of Brookings is pivotal for addressing systemic inequities, championing social justice and inclusion and fostering resilient communities. In Brookings, the racial breakdown comprises 89.1% White, 1.7% Black or African American, 4.4% Asian, 1.8% American Indian, and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 3.4% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. 90.8% of households reported speaking English only, while 2% reported speaking Spanish only. Furthermore, 7.7% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.
Areas like Brookings that have a higher than average population density tend to support environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, walking, cycling and the use of public transit, promoting sustainable lifestyles and reducing environmental impact. Densely populated areas also tend to have more vibrant social and cultural scenes, with a diverse population contributing to a wide array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This diversity fosters creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. The Brookings population density is higher than average and comes in at 1,799 people per square mile (compared to the nationwide average of 91), putting it in a position to take advantage of all the benefits of a densely populated area.
Urban Development: By leveraging demographic data in Brookings, urban planners can tailor areas to meet the needs of any resident across housing, transportation and public services, all while fostering sustainability and elevating quality of life. Demographic changes can fuel gentrification and neighborhood transformation, whether in urban or rural settings. As neighborhoods attract newcomers with varying income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing established residents and reshaping the neighborhood's fabric. A nuanced understanding of population density, age distribution, household size and income levels is pivotal for guiding decisions on zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Utilizing the demographic data in planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks and promote inclusive communities.
Understanding Populations: By delving into and analyzing the Brookings demographic stats, we can uncover insightful details regarding the composition and attributes of populations, spanning age, gender, race, ethnicity, income, education and other socio-economic indicators. This comprehension is vital for addressing the diverse needs, preferences and hurdles faced by various demographic groups within communities. Demographics wield significant influence in understanding populations, shaping decision-making processes and championing equity, inclusion, and the overall welfare of all individuals and communities. The Brookings population and demographic data serves as a cornerstone for tackling social, economic and environmental challenges, while simultaneously nurturing the well-being and resilience of societies.
Healthcare Planning: An analysis of Brookings demographics can inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. Understanding demographic trends allows healthcare providers and policymakers to allocate resources effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs and address health inequities within communities. Leveraging demographic data, healthcare providers, and policymakers strive to achieve equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive healthcare planning approach ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and customized healthcare services to meet the diverse needs of populations.
| Race | Brookings | South Dakota | National |
| White | 89.09% | 84.77% | 73.35% |
| Black | 1.72% | 1.65% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 4.41% | 1.33% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 1.78% | 8.72% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.04% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 2.40% | 2.61% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.61% | 0.88% | 4.75% |
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