The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

Relocating to a new state requires careful consideration of both the state as a whole and the particular community you choose to reside in. With its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and friendly communities, Wisconsin offers solid options for everyone. Whether you prefer bustling urban centers like Milwaukee and Madison or the serene beauty of waterside communities in Door County, or the rolling bluffs of the Driftless Region, Wisconsin provides a variety of locations for different preferences, living situations, and overall budgets.

This article presents an organized pros and cons list of Wisconsin living, along with top cities for different demographics. We will explore options for young professionals starting careers, families seeking quality education and safe neighborhoods, and retirees looking to enjoy their golden years. Along the way, we will provide additional insights to ease your transition to the Badger State.

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

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The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

Located in the upper Midwest of the United States, Wisconsin comes with its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages.  While an individual or family’s personal opportunities, choices, and circumstances will present various outcomes, the following will provide information about living in Wisconsin to prepare for the initial decision making:

Pros:

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

  1. Four Distinct Seasons: Wisconsin famously experiences all four seasons, each offering a plethora of opportunities. Spring brings mild temperatures sprinkled with an occasional snowstorm, while summer is perfect for all things outdoor and days spent on the water. Fall presents its breathtaking colors and sweater weather nights, with winter gifting all snow-related activities including ice fishing, snowmobiling, and skiing.
  2. Affordable Cost of Living: Wisconsin’s cost-of-living index is 95, ranking 26th in the nation for affordability. It’s generally 2% lower than the national average, with housing costs running 11% below national norms. The median home sale price is $396,900, which is 26.2% more affordable than the U.S. median of $420,400. This affordability makes Wisconsin attractive for those looking to maximize their budget.
  3. Friendly People: Wisconsin is renowned for its Midwestern hospitality and welcoming nature. Locals are known for their willingness to help neighbors and newcomers alike, creating a feeling of community throughout the state.
  4. Quality Education System: Wisconsin boasts excellent educational institutions, from elementary schools up through higher education. The Universities of Wisconsin system and the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS), are particularly well-regarded, offering quality higher education across multiple campuses. The state places a strong emphasis on education, making it an attractive option for families and students.
The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

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10 Best Places to Live in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is a friendly and casual place to enjoy all four seasons. Best known for its dairy farms and pro sports, it is also home to tech companies and a world-class research university. We assign a HOMEiA Score for each city, which provides an overall assessment of its safety and appeal as a place to call home

  1. Strong Job Market: The state’s economy is diverse and growing. Total employment in Wisconsin is expected to increase to 3,434,662 by the second quarter of 2025, representing a gain of 82,867 jobs or 2.5% over a two-year period. Industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and tourism offer various employment opportunities.
  2. Abundant Natural Beauty: Wisconsin features over 15,000 lakes, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts. From the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior to smaller inland lakes, from the banks of The Mighty Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers to their tributaries and streams, the state offers endless opportunities for open-water and ice fishing, boating, and water recreation Wisconsin also boasts beautiful forests, rolling hills, and scenic landscapes offering outdoor activities year-round.
  3. Rich Cultural Heritage: Wisconsin’s strong German, Scandinavian, and Polish influences are evident in its festivals, cuisine, and traditions. Cities like Milwaukee host numerous cultural events, including the world-renowned Summerfest music festival. The state’s cheese culture and craft beer scene are also significant attractions.
  4. Sports Enthusiasm: Wisconsin is home to passionate sports fans who rally behind teams like the Green Bay Packers (NFL), Milwaukee Brewers (MLB), Milwaukee Bucks (NBA), and the Milwaukee Admirals (NHL), along with minor league support from teams such as the Timber Rattlers (MiLB High-A), and the Herd (NBA-G).  The state also boasts strong college sports programs, particularly at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and Marquette University.

Cons:

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

  1. Harsh Winters: Wisconsin winters can be challenging, with temperatures frequently dropping below zero, particularly in northern communities. The winter season often begins in November and can last into March, bringing heavy snowfall, icy roads, and strong winds. Snow removal becomes a daily chore, and heating costs increase significantly during these months. Winter driving conditions have the potential to turn hazardous, especially for those unaccustomed to navigating icy, snow-covered roads.
  2. Limited Public Transportation:  Vehicle ownership is often a necessary expense, especially if residing outside of an urban area.  Though beautiful, less expensive, and more abundant, rural communities offer minimal to no public transportation options. During warmer months, bikes, e-bikes, motorcycles, and mopeds can be used, however, once the cold appears cars and trucks are a more realistic option.  
  3. High Taxes: Wisconsin’s tax burden can be substantial for residents. Property taxes average 1.51% statewide, placing Wisconsin among the top ten states for property tax rates. For example, the owner of a $200,000 home may pay over $3,000 annually in property taxes. While the state sales tax is comparatively lower at 5%, some counties add local taxes that increase the total rate.
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  1. Healthcare Access Disparities: While Wisconsin receives a “C” grade for population health overall, there are significant disparities in healthcare access and outcomes across different demographics and geographic regions. Healthcare services cost 9% higher than the national average, though quality medical facilities are available in major urban centers.  Froedtert Hospital and Children’s Hospital in Milwaukee, and UW Health University Hospital and American Family Children’s Hospital in Madison are all Level I trauma centers.
  2. Economic Inequality: There are substantial differences in economic opportunity between urban and rural areas of Wisconsin. Madison and Milwaukee have robust job markets; rural communities struggle with limited employment options and lower wages.
  3. Concerns About Infrastructure: Like many Midwestern states, Wisconsin faces challenges with its infrastructure including roads and bridges.  These networks require continuous maintenance and upgrades due to aging, and extreme fluctuation in seasonal temperature.  Detours and road construction can affect commuting and transportation efficiency.
  4. Limited Diversity: While urban areas like Milwaukee and Madison offer more diversity, many parts of Wisconsin remain relatively homogeneous. This may present cultural adjustment challenges for those relocating from more diverse regions.
  5. Declining Manufacturing Sector: Although Wisconsin has traditionally been a manufacturing powerhouse, some sectors have experienced a decline in recent years, affecting communities previously relying heavily on these industries for employment.
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Fun Facts About Wisconsin:

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

  1. Wisconsin is known as “America’s Dairyland” and leads the nation in cheese production, making over 600 varieties of cheese.
  2. Wisconsin is the birthplace of the iconic Harley-Davidson motorcycles, founded in Milwaukee in 1903.
  3. The state is home to the Green Bay Packers, the only community-owned franchise in major American professional sports.
  4. Wisconsin boasts the world’s largest music festival, Summerfest, held in Milwaukee over three consecutive weekends each summer and featuring over 800 acts across multiple stages.
  5. The ice cream sundae was invented in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, in 1881.
  6. Wisconsin has more than 15,000 lakes and thousands of miles of rivers and streams, providing ample opportunities for water recreation.
  7. The Wisconsin Dells is known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” featuring both indoor and outdoor water attractions.
  8. Along the shores of Lake Michigan is Door County, a popular tourist destination known for cherry and apple picking, and the color-changing leaves in fall.  It is known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest”.

Best Cities to Live in Wisconsin for Young Professionals

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

The following cities have relatively young populations, good employment opportunities, and attractive amenities. They are also generally affordable places to buy or rent homes, making them ideal for young professionals.

The cities are listed based on their attributes and affordability. The HOMEiA Index Scores are assigned based on a wider range of attributes.

1. Green Bay

HOMEiA Score: 87/100

  • Cost of Living: 6% lower than the Wisconsin average, 8% lower than the national average
  • Home price to income ratio: Favorable (buying homes is affordable)
  • Income to rent ratio: Favorable (renting homes is affordable)

Green Bay, ranked #12 in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 Best Places to Live rankings, offers a strong combination of affordability and quality of life for young professionals. The city is famous for its NFL team, the Green Bay Packers, but offers much more than just football.

The job market in Green Bay is robust and diverse, with key industries including healthcare, manufacturing, and transportation. Major employers include Bellin Health, Schneider National, and Georgia-Pacific. The unemployment rate is consistently below national averages.

Educational opportunities include the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, St. Norbert College in nearby De Pere, and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College.

Downtown Green Bay has undergone significant revitalization, with the Broadway District featuring unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The CityDeck, a boardwalk along the Fox River, hosts events and provides recreational space.  The Titletown District is a recreation site surrounding Lambeau Field adding to the Packer experience.

Young professionals enjoy Green Bay’s mix of urban amenities and outdoor recreation options. The Bay Beach Amusement Park offers affordable fun, while the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary provides nature trails and wildlife viewing.

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2. Appleton

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

HOMEiA Score: 89/100

  • Cost of Living: 6% lower than the Wisconsin average, 8% lower than the national average
  • Home price to income ratio: Favorable (buying homes is affordable)
  • Income to rent ratio: Very favorable (renting homes is very affordable)

Appleton, ranked #2 in best places to live in Wisconsin for 2025, is a family-friendly city offering excellent opportunities for young professionals. The city provides an attractive balance of affordability, safety, and amenities.

The job market in Appleton is diverse, with opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing, education, and retail. Major employers include ThedaCare Regional Medical Center, Thrivent Financial, and the Appleton Area School District.

Lawrence University, a prestigious liberal arts college, adds a cultural dimension to the city with musical performances, lectures, and art exhibitions open to the community. Fox Valley Technical College offers numerous career-focused programs and continuing education opportunities.

Downtown Appleton features College Avenue, a vibrant street lined with restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment venues. The city hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the Mile of Music festival, which brings hundreds of artists to perform at various venues.

As for recreation, Appleton offers extensive parks and trails, including the Heckrodt Wetland Reserve and Bubolz Nature Preserve.   The Fox River Mall, the largest shopping center in Northeast Wisconsin, provides retail therapy options for young professionals.

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3. Eau Claire

HOMEiA Score: 89/100

  • Cost of Living: 1% higher than the Wisconsin average, 2% lower than the national average
  • Home price to income ratio: Favorable (buying homes is affordable)
  • Income to rent ratio: Favorable (renting homes is affordable)

Eau Claire, ranked #1 in best places to live in Wisconsin for 2025, offers young professionals an attractive mix of affordability, cultural amenities, and natural beauty. The city has experienced significant revitalization in recent years.

The job market in Eau Claire includes opportunities in healthcare, technology, education, and manufacturing. Major employers include Mayo Clinic Health System, Marshfield Clinic, and the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire provides not only educational opportunities but also cultural events, athletic competitions, and community engagement. Chippewa Valley Technical College offers career-focused programs aligned with regional workforce needs.

Downtown Eau Claire has transformed into a vibrant district with unique shops, restaurants, breweries, and performance venues. The Pablo Center at the Confluence, a modern arts center, hosts concerts, theater productions, and art exhibitions.

The city’s location at the confluence of the Eau Claire and Chippewa Rivers provides abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. The Chippewa River State Trail offers miles of paved pathways for biking, running, and walking.

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4. Milwaukee – Juneau Town Neighborhood

HOMEiA Score: 91/100

  • Cost of Living: 3% higher than the Wisconsin average, 1% higher than the national average
  • Home price to income ratio: Moderate (buying homes is somewhat affordable)
  • Income to rent ratio: Good (renting homes is affordable)

Juneau Town in Milwaukee is ranked as the #1 best place for young professionals in Wisconsin according to Niche.com. The population is predominantly young, with excellent access to nightlife, dining, and cultural attractions.

The median household income in Milwaukee is above the state average, providing positive earning potential for starting careers. The unemployment rate is below the national average, indicating a healthy job market.

Milwaukee is home to several colleges and universities, including Marquette University, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), and Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design (MIAD). These institutions provide continuing education opportunities and contribute to the city’s youthful energy.

Downtown Milwaukee features the Historic Third Ward, a trendy area with converted warehouses, galleries, theaters, restaurants, and boutique shops. The Milwaukee Public Market provides indoor restaurants and shopping, while The Milwaukee RiverWalk offers a scenic pedestrian path along the Milwaukee River with access to breweries, restaurants, and shops.

For entertainment, the city hosts numerous festivals including Summerfest, Germanfest, Polishfest, and more at Henry Maier Festival Park. The Fiserv Forum features indoor concerts, games, and special events.  American Family Field is not only the home of the Milwaukee Brewers but also hosts concerts and special events throughout the year due to its retractable roof.  Sports enthusiasts can enjoy Milwaukee Brewers baseball, Milwaukee Bucks basketball, Milwaukee Admirals hockey, and easy access to Green Bay Packers football games.

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5. Madison

HOMEiA Score: 95/100

  • Cost of Living: 7% higher than the Wisconsin average, 5% higher than the national average
  • Home price to income ratio: 4.46 (buying homes is expensive)
  • Income to rent ratio: 3.73 (renting homes is affordable)

Madison is located in south-central Wisconsin and ranked #14 in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 Best Places to Live rankings. The population in Madison grew by 10.3% in recent years, above the overall U.S. rate of 7.4%.

The population in Madison is young, with 17.3% of the population under 18 and only 10.5% over 65 years old, making it ideal for young professionals.

Madison is home to the University of Wisconsin, creating a vibrant college town atmosphere with a thriving live music scene. The city is also a great market for real estate investors, especially those specializing in student housing due to the large student population.

The city offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, with five lakes within its boundaries providing recreation opportunities. The downtown area features the Wisconsin State Capitol surrounded by a lively square with restaurants, shops, and the famous Dane County Farmers’ Market.

Madison offers numerous museums, The Dane County Farmers’ Market, The UW-Madison Arboretum, The Overture Center, Monona Terrace, and Olbrich Botanical Gardens.  The city’s extensive bike trail system makes commuting and recreation easy for active young professionals.

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The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

1. Sun Prairie

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

HOMEiA Score: 88/100

  • Cost of Living: 7% above the Wisconsin average
  • Home price to income ratio: Favorable (buying homes is affordable)
  • Income to rent ratio: Favorable (renting homes is affordable)

Sun Prairie, located a mere thirty minute drive northeast of Madison, is one of Wisconsin’s fastest-growing communities and offers families excellent schools, diverse recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community.  Sun Prairie’s distance from Madison opens additional opportunities for cultural education, medical support, and event calendars.

The Sun Prairie Area School District features modern facilities, strong academic programs, and extensive extracurricular offerings. The district’s commitment to technology integration and personalized learning makes it attractive to families with children of all ages.

Sun Prairie’s parks system includes over 40 parks and natural areas. Angell Park features playgrounds, sports fields, and hosts the annual Sweet Corn Festival. The Sheehan Park splash pad provides summer fun for younger children.

The Sun Prairie Public Library offers extensive children’s programming, including storytimes, craft sessions, and STEM activities. The library’s summer reading program encourages literacy development with engaging themes and events.

Family-friendly community events occur throughout the year, including the Sun Prairie Sweet Corn Festival, featuring carnival rides, live music, and, of course, fresh sweet corn. The weekly farmers market runs from spring through fall, offering local produce and activities.

The Sun Prairie Family Aquatic Center features water slides, play structures, and a zero-depth entry pool perfect for families with children of various ages. The Prairie Athletic Club offers indoor recreational facilities, including a family pool with slides and play features.

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2. De Pere

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

HOMEiA Score: 89/100

  • Cost of Living: 5% below the Wisconsin average
  • Home price to income ratio: Very favorable (buying homes is very affordable)
  • Income to rent ratio: Very favorable (renting homes is very affordable)

De Pere, located just five miles south of Green Bay, offers families a charming riverside community with excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and abundant recreational opportunities.

The De Pere School District consistently receives high ratings for academic excellence, with strong programs in core subjects as well as arts and athletics. St. Norbert College adds educational and cultural opportunities to the community.

The city’s park system includes Voyageur Park along the Fox River, featuring playground equipment, picnic areas, and boat launches. The East River Trail provides miles of paved pathways perfect for family bike rides and walks.

The Neville Public Museum and National Railroad Museum (member ASTC), located nearby, offer educational exhibits and programs for children of all ages. The De Pere Community Center provides recreational activities and classes year-round.

Community events throughout the year include Celebrate De Pere, a Memorial Day weekend festival with music, food, and children’s activities. During the summer and early fall, the weekly Saturday Farmers Market features local produce and family entertainment.

De Pere’s historic downtown offers family-friendly dining options and unique shops along the Fox River. The Fox River Trail, accessible from downtown, provides scenic views and recreation opportunities.

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3. Middleton

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

HOMEiA Score: 92/100

  • Cost of Living: 12% above the Wisconsin average
  • Home price to income ratio: Moderate (buying homes is somewhat affordable)
  • Income to rent ratio: Favorable (renting homes is affordable)

Middleton, often called “The Good Neighbor City,” is located just six miles west of Madison and offers families an excellent combination of top-rated schools, parks, and community amenities.

The Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District consistently ranks among the best in Wisconsin, with high graduation rates and strong academic performance. The district offers innovative programs in STEM, arts, and languages.

Families appreciate Middleton’s extensive park system, which includes over 25 parks and natural areas. Pheasant Branch Conservancy offers miles of trails for hiking and bird watching, while Lakeview Park features a splash pad, playground, and sports facilities.

The Middleton Public Library is known for its exceptional children’s department and programming, including storytimes, summer reading programs, and educational events. The library’s Media Maker Lab provides hands-on learning opportunities for children of all ages.

Community events bring families together throughout the year, including the Good Neighbor Festival, Middleton’s signature celebration with parades, rides, and activities. The weekly Middleton Farmers’ Market offers fresh produce and family-friendly entertainment.

For indoor recreation, the Kids in Motion playground provides year-round active play, while the National Mustard Museum offers quirky family fun with its collection of thousands of mustards from around the world.

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4. Waunakee

HOMEiA Score: 92/100

  • Cost of Living: 13% above the Wisconsin average
  • Home price to income ratio: Moderate (buying homes is somewhat affordable)
  • Income to rent ratio: Favorable (renting homes is affordable)

Waunakee, known as “The Only Waunakee in the World,” is a growing community thirty minutes north of Madison that offers excellent schools, family-friendly neighborhoods, and a strong sense of community.

The Waunakee Community School District is highly rated, with strong academic programs, modern facilities, and extensive extracurricular opportunities. The district’s focus on individualized learning and character development makes it particularly attractive to families.

Waunakee’s park system includes Village Park, with playgrounds, sports fields, and a community center, while Ripp Park, features baseball diamonds and soccer fields. The Six Mile Creek Trail offers families opportunities for hiking, biking, and nature exploration.

The Waunakee Public Library provides extensive children’s programming, including storytimes, craft sessions, and STEM activities. The library’s summer reading program encourages literacy development while school is out.

Community events foster a family-friendly atmosphere throughout the year. WaunaFest, held each July, includes a carnival, parade, live music, and activities for all ages. The Waunakee Farmers’ Market runs weekly during summer months, offering local produce and family activities.

The Waunakee Village Center houses an indoor aquatic center with a zero-depth entry pool, water slides, and play features perfect for families with children of all ages. The center also offers numerous classes and programs for children and parents.

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5. Brookfield

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

HOMEiA Score: 96/100

  • Cost of Living: 15% above the Wisconsin average
  • Home price to income ratio: Moderate (buying homes is somewhat affordable)
  • Income to rent ratio: Very favorable (renting homes is very affordable)

Brookfield, located a short thirty minute drive west of Milwaukee, is consistently rated among the best suburbs in Wisconsin for families. The city combines excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and family-friendly amenities.

The Elmbrook School District serves Brookfield and is one of the highest-rated school districts in Wisconsin, with exceptional academic performance, strong extracurricular programs, and modern facilities. Private school options include Brookfield Christian School and Brookfield Academy.

Families enjoy abundant recreational opportunities at Brookfield’s numerous parks, including Mitchell Park, which features playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The Fox Brook Park includes a beach and swimming area perfect for summer fun.

The Brookfield Public Library offers extensive children’s programming, including storytimes, crafts, and educational events. For indoor recreation, the Brookfield Indoor Soccer Complex and Cool Waters Aquatic Park provide year-round activities.

Shopping and dining options abound at Brookfield Square Mall and The Corners of Brookfield, an open-air shopping center with family-friendly restaurants and entertainment. The Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts hosts family performances and classes in music, art, and dance.

Healthcare facilities in Brookfield include Ascension SE Wisconsin Hospital – Elmbrook Campus and numerous pediatric clinics, ensuring families have convenient access to quality medical care. Froedtert and Children’s Wisconsin, both trauma level I hospitals, are located within twenty miles of Brookfield.

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The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

1. Wausau

HOMEiA Score: 84/100

  • Cost of Living: 6% lower than the Wisconsin average, 8% lower than the national average
  • Home price to income ratio: Very favorable (buying homes is very affordable)

Healthcare Access: Good, with regional medical center

Wausau, located in north-central Wisconsin along the Wisconsin River, offers retirees an attractive combination of natural beauty, cultural amenities, and affordability.

The city’s location near Rib Mountain State Park provides opportunities for outdoor recreation throughout the year, including hiking in summer and skiing at Granite Peak Ski Area in winter. The River Edge Parkway offers walking paths along the Wisconsin River, while the city’s numerous parks provide spaces for relaxation and recreation.

Cultural attractions include the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, known for its annual “Birds in Art” exhibition and offering free admission year-round. The Grand Theater hosts performances ranging from Broadway shows to concerts and comedy acts.

Downtown Wausau has experienced significant revitalization, with restaurants, shops, and the Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art. The city hosts numerous events throughout the year, including Artrageous Weekend, which encompasses several art shows across the city.

Healthcare services are anchored by Aspirus Wausau Hospital, a regional medical center offering comprehensive services, including specialized care for seniors. Numerous clinics throughout the area provide primary and specialty care.  Marshfield Medical Center, a trauma level II care facility, is located forty-five miles southwest. 

Wausau offers various housing options suitable for retirees, from downtown apartments and condominiums to suburban neighborhoods and rural properties. Several retirement communities and assisted living facilities provide options for different levels of care.

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2. Green Bay

HOMEiA Score: 85/100

  • Cost of Living: 6% lower than the Wisconsin average, 8% lower than the national average
  • Home price to income ratio: Very favorable (buying homes is very affordable)

Healthcare Access: Excellent, with major medical centers

Green Bay, Wisconsin’s oldest settlement, offers retirees an attractive combination of affordability, amenities, and healthcare options in a mid-sized city environment.

The city’s location on the bay of Green Bay at the mouth of the Fox River provides scenic water views and recreational opportunities. The Fox River State Trail offers miles of paved pathways perfect for walking and cycling. The Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary provides 600 acres of natural habitat with easy walking trails.

Cultural attractions include the Weidner Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other performances. The Neville Public Museum offers exhibits on art, history, and science, while the National Railroad Museum (member ASTC) features one of the largest collections of railroad equipment in the country.  Even more culture, education, arts, and sporting events are provided by The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, and nearby Saint Norbert College.

Healthcare options are excellent, with Bellin Hospital, HSHS St. Vincent Hospital, and Aurora BayCare Medical Center providing comprehensive medical services, including specialized geriatric care. Numerous clinics throughout the area offer primary and specialty care.

Green Bay offers various housing options suitable for retirees, from downtown condominiums to suburban neighborhoods. Several retirement communities and assisted living facilities provide options for different levels of care and independence.

For sports enthusiasts, Green Bay Packers games and events at Lambeau Field provide entertainment and community connection throughout the year.

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3. Eau Claire

HOMEiA Score: 87/100

  • Cost of Living: 1% higher than the Wisconsin average, 2% lower than the national average
  • Home price to income ratio: Favorable (buying homes is affordable)

Healthcare Access: Excellent, with major medical centers

Eau Claire, located in west-central Wisconsin at the confluence of the Eau Claire and Chippewa Rivers, offers retirees an attractive mix of cultural vibrancy, natural beauty, and healthcare excellence.

The city’s revitalized downtown features the Pablo Center at the Confluence, offering performances, art exhibitions, and educational programs. The Eau Claire Regional Arts Center hosts various concerts, theater productions, and art displays throughout the year.  Additional cultural experiences, continued education, as well as sports and arts entertainment are provided by The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

Outdoor recreation opportunities are abundant, with the Chippewa River State Trail providing miles of paved pathways for walking and cycling. Carson Park, situated on a peninsula in Half Moon Lake, offers scenic walking paths, gardens, and sports facilities.

Healthcare services are exceptional, with Mayo Clinic Health System and HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital providing comprehensive medical care, including specialized services for seniors. Numerous clinics throughout the city offer primary and specialty care.

Housing options vary from downtown apartments and condominiums to suburban neighborhoods and rural properties. Several retirement communities and assisted living facilities provide options for different levels of care and independence.

The L.E. Phillips Senior Center offers numerous programs and activities specifically for older adults, including fitness classes, educational workshops, and social events. The center also provides resources and referrals for senior services throughout the community.

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4. La Crosse

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

HOMEiA Score: 90/100

  • Cost of Living: 1% higher than the Wisconsin average, 2% lower than the national average
  • Home price to income ratio: Very favorable (buying homes is very affordable)

Healthcare Access: Excellent, with major medical centers

Situated on the bank of the Mississippi River in western Wisconsin, La Crosse offers retirees an attractive combination of natural beauty, cultural amenities, and excellent healthcare.

The city’s location among scenic bluffs and along the Mississippi River provides breathtaking views and abundant recreational opportunities. Grandad Bluff Park offers panoramic views of both Wisconsin and Minnesota. The Great River State Trail and La Crosse River State Trail provide miles of level paths perfect for walking and cycling.  The Great River Road parallels The Big Muddy giving way to miles of scenery, soaring bald eagles, and leisurely stops in small towns.

La Crosse features a vibrant downtown with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions including the Weber Center for the Performing Arts and the Pump House Regional Arts Center. The La Crosse Symphony Orchestra performs regular concerts throughout the year.  The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse opens additional culture, sport, and education opportunities.

Healthcare options are exceptional, with both Mayo Clinic Health System and Gundersen Health System operating major medical centers in La Crosse. These facilities offer comprehensive services, including specialized geriatric care.

The La Crosse area offers various housing options suitable for retirees, from downtown condominiums to suburban neighborhoods and rural settings. Several retirement communities and assisted living facilities provide options for different levels of care.

Community engagement opportunities abound through organizations like RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) and the La Crosse Senior Center, which offers social activities, educational programs, and fitness classes designed for older adults.

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

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5. Door County (Fish Creek, Sister Bay, Ephraim)

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

HOMEiA Score: 91/100

  • Cost of Living: 15% above the Wisconsin average
  • Home price to income ratio: Higher (consider for those with retirement savings)

Healthcare Access: Good, with increasing options for seniors

Door County, often called the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” offers retirees a scenic peninsula with charming waterfront communities, cultural amenities, and natural beauty. The area includes several small towns, each with unique charm, including Fish Creek, Sister Bay, and Ephraim.  With Green Bay located a forty-five minute drive south, more opportunity for arts, culture, and medical support are within a sensible distance.

The peninsula features over 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan and Green Bay, providing stunning water views and recreational opportunities. Numerous state parks, including Peninsula State Park and Newport State Park, offer hiking trails suitable for various ability levels.

Door County’s thriving arts community includes galleries, studios, and theaters. The Peninsula Players Theatre and Northern Sky Theater present professional productions throughout the warmer months. The Birch Creek Music Performance Center offers classical and jazz concerts.

While primarily known as a summer destination, Door County offers year-round appeal for retirees. Fall brings spectacular foliage, winter offers quiet beauty and cross-country skiing, and spring features blooming orchards and returning wildlife.

Healthcare services have expanded in recent years, with Door County Medical Center in Sturgeon Bay providing a range of services, including specialized care for seniors. Numerous clinics throughout the peninsula offer primary care and specialty services.

Conclusion

Wisconsin offers diverse living options for everyone, from emerging professionals, to growing families, to good-living retirees. With its affordable cost of living, natural beauty, and strong communities, the Badger State is definitely an attractive option for relocation. Whether you prefer urban amenities in Milwaukee and Madison or the tranquil settings of Door County and the Northwoods, Wisconsin provides something for every lifestyle. As you consider your move, be open to the potential possibilities Wisconsin can provide for your next chapter.

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

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Leah Foerster is a lifelong trivia geek, and emerging writer/editor based in Wisconsin. After years of finding herself as a ghostwriter, she decidedly put her name to the pen. She earned both a BS in Exceptional Education and an AAS in interior design, along with continued education in the School of Life and Parenting 101. Leah’s voice is mutually academic and casual with sprinkles of factual trivia and relatable storytelling. One can find her comfortably camping in a state park, dining at a four-star establishment, quickly packing for a travel adventure, or lecturing in a classroom. Her husband of twenty years and she are parents to two teenagers.

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