Aurora, South Dakota: A Charm of Community and Tranquility

Aurora, South Dakota, is a delightful fusion of serene landscapes and vibrant community life that captures the hearts of its residents and visitors alike. It's a place where everyone knows your name and heartfelt waves from neighbors are the norm. In Aurora, community spirit is as expansive as the rolling plains that surround this small yet spirited town.

With a population that embraces small-town warmth, Aurora offers an inviting atmosphere that encourages lasting connections. Local gatherings, from farmer's markets to festive parades, foster a sense of belonging and provide opportunities to enjoy shared moments of joy. It's a town where tradition meets progression, harmonizing the past with ambitions for the future.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love in and around Aurora. Its lush parks and nearby picturesque trails beckon residents to explore, unwind, and soak in the breathtaking sunsets that paint the South Dakota sky. The town’s location provides easy access to both tranquil country settings and the conveniences of nearby Brookings, ensuring a life balanced between relaxation and opportunity.

In Aurora, life is enriched by simplicity, shared experiences, and a deep appreciation for the authentic. It's more than just a place to live; it's a community to thrive in.

Workforce & Industrial Development

Aurora, located just east of Brookings in eastern South Dakota, is steadily carving out a niche as a welcoming location for industrial and logistics investment. Its close proximity to Interstate 29 and U.S. Highway 14 provides direct access to major transportation corridors, supporting efficient movement of goods throughout the Upper Midwest. The region benefits from a strong agricultural base, which has spurred growth in agri-business, food processing, and light manufacturing sectors.

Industrial real estate activity in Aurora and Brookings County has seen positive momentum, with local development organizations collaborating to prepare shovel-ready sites and modern infrastructure. The Aurora Industrial Park, for example, offers customizable parcels with utilities and easy highway access, appealing to both regional and national firms seeking expansion opportunities.

South Dakota’s pro-business climate is a significant draw. The state offers no corporate income tax and a suite of incentives, including the South Dakota Reinvestment Payment Program, which assists with costs related to new or expanding facilities. Workforce development is also a priority, with programs like SDWORKS and Build Dakota Scholarship helping employers recruit and train skilled workers in manufacturing, logistics, and technical trades.

Local and county economic development offices provide hands-on support for site selection, permitting, and incentive applications, making Aurora an efficient and business-friendly choice for industrial growth.