The 10 Best Places to Live in Wisconsin: A City Comparison (updated)

Wisconsin’s 65,500 square miles of diverse geography support high-performing cities and historic towns at costs significantly below national benchmarks. So far this year, the state’s economy is defined by a robust manufacturing legacy transitioning toward high-growth technology and healthcare sectors. While the statewide median home price remains competitive at $359,000, municipal variations are stark, ranging from affluent enclaves like Whitefish Bay to the accessible growth hubs of Eau Claire. This data-driven analysis compares ten of the best places to live in Wisconsin, evaluating employment resilience, housing inventory, and infrastructure stability to help professionals and families align their residential choices with their strategic needs.

Key Takeaways

The residential landscape in Wisconsin is characterized by reliable stability and emerging economic diversifications. Key trends influencing this year’s rankings include:

1. Unmatched Affordability: Wisconsin remains a premier value proposition, with average rents tracking 32% below the national average. One-bedroom units range from $987 in Green Bay to over $1,762 in high-income retreats like Mequon.
2. Knowledge-Economy Migration: Madison and Eau Claire are certain cities attracting tech talent. The latter is projected to see a 32% surge in earnings-per-share this year, driven by advancements in specialized manufacturing and enterprise software.
3. Safety as a Regional Benchmark: Wisconsin’s violent crime rate is 21% below the national average. Communities includingHobart-Lawrence and Cedarburg consistently rank among the safest in the United States for 2026.
4. Transit & Infrastructure Maturity: The launch of Madison’s Metro Rapid Route A in late 2024 and the planned 2026 expansion of Route B are transforming regional connectivity, raising property values in designated transit corridors.
5. Lifestyle Diversity: The state offers a spectrum from the ultra-accessible urbanism of The Home of the Cheeseheads (Green Bay) to the elite suburban polished experience of Brookfield and the historic café culture of Cedarburg.

Related article

Our Methodologies to create HOMEiA Score Ratings for Each Group of Content

HOMEiA uses a consistent, data-driven methodology to evaluate U.S. states for livability, affordability, and long-term value. Our analysis centers on key factors such as Housing and Affordability, Cost of Daily Living, Access and Infrastructure, Community Strength, Safety and Quality of Life, Economic Resilience and Job Market…

I. Methodology: How We Chose the Best

The 2026 municipal rankings utilize a multi-factor composite index designed to capture the nuanced realities of livability for professional and family demographics. This framework favors a data-driven approach  weighing various socioeconomic indicators according to their impact on long-term residential stability and asset appreciation.

The data synthesized in this analysis is drawn from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), real-time housing market reports from Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com, and 2026 safety rankings provided by SafeWise and the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting program. The HOMEiA Score for each city is a proprietary composite index (0 to 100) reflecting a municipality’s performance across these weighted criteria as of February 2026.

II. The 10 Best Cities: A Portrait of Wisconsin’s Diversity

1. Green Bay: The Titletown Community

A. Employment & Economy: Green Bay’s economy is anchored by a robust blend of healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and professional sports logistics. Major employers include Bellin Health, Georgia-Pacific, and Schreiber Foods. The Green Bay MSA recorded a resilient unemployment rate of 2.9% in late 2025, with the manufacturing sector supporting over 33,500 local jobs.

B. Housing & Affordability: The median sale price for homes reached $265,000 in January, marking a 6.0% annual increase. Despite this growth, it remains one of the most accessible urban markets in the Midwest. The rental market is exceptionally affordable, with one-bedroom units averaging $987 per month, 39% below the national average.

C. Quality of Life & Culture: While the community’s identity is inextricably linked to the Packers, Green Bay has expanded its cultural footprint. Residents enjoy access to the Neville Public Museum and a revitalized riverfront district. The Fox River Trail provides significant outdoor recreational value, and a bustling downtown restaurant scene caters to young professionals.

D. Access & Infrastructure: Infrastructure development is currently focused on the Shipyard project. Following the 2024 completion of Phase 1, Phase 2 construction is scheduled to begin in 2026 and be completed the following year. What will come will be a spacious lawn for concerts, urban beach, and  splash pad. Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) continues to provide reliable regional connectivity.

E. Safety & Community: GBmaintains a stable safety profile, though crime rates vary by district, with the west side reporting higher safety metrics. The unique community-owned structure of the NFL franchise fosters a level of civic pride and volunteerism rare for a city of this size.

Related article

The Pros and Cons of Living in Wisconsin

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…

2. Eau Claire: The Western Wisconsin Rising Star

A. Employment & Economy: Eau Claire has metamorphosed into a regional tech and healthcare hub. The local economy is spearheaded by Menards HQ, the Mayo Clinic Health System (employing 5,500), and a tech sector including over 2,000 professionals to continue the success. 

B. Housing & Affordability: Typical home values reached $302,533  earlier in the year, a 2.1% annual increase. With a home-price-to-income ratio of 3.9:1, there exists a genuinely attainable path to ownership for first-time buyers. Average one-bedroom rents sit at $1,110, representing a 2.9% decrease from the previous year, further easing the burden on renters.

C. Quality of Life & Culture: Cultural vitality is a defining characteristic of the area, highlighted by the nationally recognized Eaux Claires Music & Arts Festival. UW-Eau Claire fosters intellectual growth, while the Chippewa River State Trail offers 30 miles of high-quality cycling and hiking access.

D. Access & Infrastructure: Infrastructure is supported by widespread broadband expansion to accommodate a growing remote-work population. I-94 provides a 90-minute connection to Minneapolis-St. Paul, positioning the city as a strategic alternative to the Twin Cities’ higher cost of living.

E. Safety & Community: Violent crime rates remain consistently below state averages. The community is characterized by heightened civic engagement and a growing population of young professionals attracted to a mix of creative industries and outdoor recreation.

3. Sun Prairie: The Fast-Growing Family Favorite

A. Employment & Economy: Sun Prairie’s growth is fueled by its proximity to Madison and major employers like Epic Systems. The population now exceeds 36,000, largely professionals in tech and healthcare. The local labor market is characterized by high educational attainment and developed remote-work contingent.

B. Housing & Affordability: The housing market is uber competitive, with the median home price reaching $464,500 in late 2025, up 15.4% year-over-year. While single-family prices are elevated, townhouses provide entry points near $285,000. Rents average $1,401, roughly 14% below the national average.

C. Quality of Life & Culture: Exceptional public schools are the primary draw for The Prairie. Heavy investment in community parks and trails has paid off, and its proximity to Madison allows residents to access the capital’s cultural amenities while residing in a more traditional suburban environment.

D. Access & Infrastructure: A major infrastructure milestone was reached with the launch of Madison’s Metro Rapid Route A, which connects localsdirectly to the capital’s core. High-speed internet is a standard utility in newer developments, making the city a top choice for hybrid workers.

E. Safety & Community: Here maintains a high safety rating, with crime rates significantly below state averages for similarly sized municipalities. Rapid growth has been met with proactive municipal investment in public services and road infrastructure.

Related article

5 Most Affordable and Safe Places to Live in Wisconsin

Whether you are seeking waterfront views, vibrant city life, or peaceful small-town charm, Wisconsin provides affordable, safe options for individuals, families, and retirees. From the banks of The Mighty Mississippi to the shores of Lake Michigan, from the beaches of Lake Superior to…

4. Waukesha: The Hottest Market in Wisconsin

A. Employment & Economy: Waukesha’s economy is led by GE Healthcare, Generac Power Systems, and Waukesha Metal Products. Median household income of $83,837 supports a boisterous local tax base. Realtor.com recently recognized Waukesha’s 53186 zip code as one of the hottest in the nation due to its employment density and market speed.

B. Housing & Affordability: The median home sale price reached $399,800 in 2026, reflecting a 6.6% annual increase. Homes move quickly here, with a median of only 48 days on the market. The rental market offers significant value, with one-bedroom units averaging $1,258, 23% below the national average.

C. Quality of Life & Culture: A revitalized downtown with a historic Main Street, local breweries, and restaurants can be found here. Carroll University adds a college town dimension to the community. Frame Park, located along the Fox River, serves as a central hub for outdoor recreation and community events.

D. Access & Infrastructure: I-94 provides a 20-minute commute to downtown Milwaukee, while ProHealth Waukesha Memorial Hospital provides comprehensive local healthcare. Their infrastructure is well-maintained, supporting high-density professional activity.

E. Safety & Community: This is one of the safest large municipalities in the state. Total crime is 53% below the national average while violent crime is recorded at a remarkably low 114 per 100,000 residents.

5. Appleton: The Fox Valley Anchor

A. Employment & Economy: Appleton serves as the primary hub for the Fox Cities, driven by manufacturing, healthcare (ThedaCare), and insurance. Kimberly-Clark remains a major corporate employer. With a median household income of $92,069 and a local labor market that has remained resilient through 2025, there exists consistent career stability.

B. Housing & Affordability: There exists the most favorable home-price-to-income ratio on this list at 3.4:1. Median home sale price is $308,450, while one-bedroom rents average $1,059m nearly35% below the national benchmark. This makes the city a premier choice for those seeking high-quality housing at a lower cost basis.

C. Quality of Life & Culture: Lawrence University drives the city’s cultural life. The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center hosts major Broadway tours, and the Mile of Music festival brings regional attention. Outdoor enthusiasts have ready access to Lake Winnebago and High Cliff State Park.

D. Access & Infrastructure: Appleton International Airport (ATW) provides essential regional connectivity supported by I-41 linking to Green Bay and Milwaukee. ThedaCare Regional Medical Center serves as a top-tier primary healthcare facility for the entire Fox Valley.

E. Safety & Community: It maintains a safe environment, with a total crime rate 27% below the national average. The community is known for a high degree of volunteerism and a collaborative spirit among local foundations. 

6. Cedarburg: The Charming Historic Gem

A. Employment & Economy: Cedarburg’s economy is a unique blend of tourism, high-end retail, and professional services. The 10-block historic downtown district attracts over 175,000 visitors annually. Local unemployment is an exceptional 1.8%, reflecting a highly engaged and affluent local workforce.

B. Housing & Affordability: The median home value is $535,312. High desirability has driven home prices to a ratio of 6.4:1 relative to the median income of $82,110. However, the rental market is modest, with a median rent of $1,057, providing accessible entry points for those preparing for homeownership.

C. Quality of Life & Culture: Cedar Creek Settlement, a restored 1860s woolen mill, functions as the town’s cultural heart, housing shops and galleries. Ozaukee Interurban Trail and Covered Bridge Park provide extensive recreational space. The city’s four signature festivals create a vibrant, year-round social calendar.

D. Access & Infrastructure: A major perk is being 25 minutes from downtown Milwaukee via I-43. Healthcare is supported by Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital Ozaukee. Their compact, walkable core is a major draw for professionals seeking a small-town lifestyle without sacrificing proximity to urban hubs.

E. Safety & Community: SafeWise ranks The Burg among Wisconsin’s top 10 safest communities for 2026. The total crime rate is 79% below the national average, making it a premier destination for families and retirees.

7. Mequon: The Affluent North Shore Retreat

A. Employment & Economy: The city’s workforce is heavily concentrated in the knowledge economy, particularly in computer and mathematical fields. Over 22% of residents telecommute, supported by a median household income of $147,391. Local unemployment remains low at 2.1%.

B. Housing & Affordability: Mequon’s housing market is one of Wisconsin’s most competitive, with a median sale price of $679,000 as of January 2026, a 10.4% annual increase. Despite premium pricing, top-tier incomes keep the price-to-income ratio at a manageable 4.3:1. Median rents are the highest on the list at $2,271.

C. Quality of Life & Culture: Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve offers dramatic bluff views of Lake Michigan, and the Mequon-Thiensville School District consistently earns A+ ratings from Niche. Concordia University Wisconsin provides a steady stream of local cultural and educational opportunities.

D. Access & Infrastructure: Infrastructure is optimized for the city’s sizable telecommuter population, with ubiquitous high-speed broadband. I-43 provides a 25-minute connection to Milwaukee’s commercial core.

E. Safety & Community: This is one of the state’s most educated and safest communities. The total crime rate is 72% below the national average paired with69% of adults holding at least a bachelor’s degree, contributing to a stable, family-friendly atmosphere.

Related article

7 Key Factors to Know About Living in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

If you want the variety, history, and entertainment options of a big city, but with shorter commutes and a laid-back Midwestern vibe, Milwaukee, Wisconsin may be the place for you. It has an upscale side, especially in trendy districts like the Historic Third Ward, and its proximity to Chicago…

8. Madison: The Progressive Capital City

A. Employment & Economy: Madison is Wisconsin’s most formidable economic player, attributed to UW-Madison, state government, Epic Systems, and American Family Insurance. The Dane County median household income reached $91,479 in 2025. Key growth sectors in 2026 include bio (science and technology) and advanced manufacturing.

B. Housing & Affordability: The typical home value is $416,667, while one-bedroom rents average $1,464. Despite a tight housing market, rents remain roughly 18% below the national average. Isthmus neighborhoods are particularly competitive, reflecting high demand for urban walkability.

C. Quality of Life & Culture: Madison’s unique geography between Lakes Mendota and Monona provides world-class waterfront access for sailing and winter sports. State Street remains the city’s cultural spine, and the Dane County Farmers’ Market is the largest producer-only market in the nation.

D. Access & Infrastructure: Transportation is currently Madison’s focus. The 2024 launch of Metro Rapid Route A transformed the east-west corridor, and a Route B expansion is planned for August 2026. This is consistently ranked as one of the most bicycle-friendly in the Midwest.

E. Safety & Community: While urban crime is concentrated in specific pockets, the suburban and isthmus areas are viewed as reliable. High voter turnout and active neighborhood associations reinforce a high degree of community cohesion and civic engagement.

9. Whitefish Bay: The Lakefront Family Village

A. Employment & Economy: Whitefish Bay is a residential village whose workforce largely commutes to Milwaukee for senior roles in finance, law, and corporate management. The median household income of $157,109 is among the highest in WI, providing residents with significant purchasing power.

B. Housing & Affordability: The median home value reached $603,488 in early 2026. Despite the high absolute prices, the home-price-to-income ratio of 3.4:1 is economical. Renters benefit from an income-to-rent ratio of 9.5x, the best on this list, indicating that housing costs represent a small portion of gross income for residents.

C. Quality of Life & Culture: Lake Michigan’s shoreline and Klode Park define the village’s outdoor appeal. Silver Spring Drive’s commercial district offers a charming, walkable collection of shops and cafes. The local public schools are rated A+ by Niche and are a primary driver of property values.

D. Access & Infrastructure: Downtown Milwaukee is a 10 to 15-minute drive via I-43. Infrastructure is characteristically polished, with well-maintained public spaces and quick, 20 minute commute to General Mitchell International Airport (MKE).

E. Safety & Community: The village is exceptionally safe, with crime rates well below state and national benchmarks. Consistent civic engagement and a compact layout foster a cohesive village feel for its 14,665 residents.

Related article

​​​​3 Safest and Most Affordable Neighborhoods to Live in Kenosha, Wisconsin

Kenosha’s neighborhoods—Gateway, Red Arrow, and Poerio—stand out as some of the cheapest places to live in the city. They offer affordable rent, unique character, and convenient access to jobs, schools, and amenities. With supportive programs like Home Kenosha, these areas continue to grow in value and community appeal…

10. Brookfield: The Premier Milwaukee Suburb

A. Employment & Economy: Brookfield is a major corporate hub hosting Fiserv, ProHealth Care, and Robert W. Baird. The median household income of $124,026 and an unemployment rate of 3.0% reflect an exceptionally stable labor market. Their poverty rate is a negligible 3.5%.

B. Housing & Affordability: Average home value is approximately $505,006. One-bedroom rents average $1,700, though luxury units in newer developments command more. With an income-to-rent ratio of 6.1x, the community is genuinely attainable for its professional target demographic.

C. Quality of Life & Culture: Here offers a polished suburban experience with high-end regional retail at The Corners of Brookfield and Brookfield Square. It manages an extensive system of well-maintained parks, and residents have streamlined access to Milwaukee’s museums and professional sports.

D. Access & Infrastructure: I-94 provides direct access to both Milwaukee (15 miles) and Madison (75 miles). ProHealth and Froedtert hospitals provide elite-level healthcare. Capital improvements to local roads and pedestrian paths continue to enhance the city’s infrastructure rating this year.

E. Safety & Community: The total crime rate is 44% below the national average, while violent crime sits at 83.3 per 100,000 residents. Active homeowner associations and family-focused community programming maintain a high standard of security and residential satisfaction.

Comparative Data Table

Synthesis of Findings

The 2026 Wisconsin residential market is defined by a clear divergence between accessible growth hubs and elite suburban villages. For budget-conscious buyers seeking economic resilience, Appleton and Green Bay offer the state’s best income-adjusted affordability, with home-price-to-income ratios well below 4.0:1. Conversely, families prioritizing elite school districts and maximum public safety will find Brookfield and Whitefish Bay to be compelling options, as the stability of property values in these communities represents a high-return investment in household well-being. Madison remains the premier choice for young professionals seeking urban energy and a reliable job market, particularly as the city’s BRT infrastructure matures through 2026.

FAQs About Living in Wisconsin‘s Best Cities

1. What industries are driving the Wisconsin job market in 2026?
Healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and technology are the primary drivers. Epic Systems (Madison), Mayo Clinic (Eau Claire), and the Fox Valley manufacturing corridor are major employment hubs for high-median-salary roles.

2. Which Wisconsin cities are most affordable for first-time homebuyers?
Appleton and Eau Claire offer the lowest entry points, with median home values around $308,000 and $302,000 respectively. Both cities maintain home-price-to-income ratios under 4.0:1, turning homeownership from a dream to reality for young professionals.

3. Are these cities safe for families?
Yes. Wisconsin’s violent crime rate is significantly below the national average. Cedarburg, Whitefish Bay, and Mequon are exceptionally safe, with crime rates up to 79% below national benchmarks.

4. What is the status of public transportation in Wisconsin’s major cities?
Madison is currently leading the state with generational upgrades to its Metro Transit system. East-West Rapid Route A is fully operational, and expansion of Route B is planned for August 2026 to further improve regional connectivity.

5. What should remote workers consider when choosing a Wisconsin city?
Remote workers should prioritize municipalities with robust broadband infrastructure and walkable amenities. Madison, Mequon, and Eau Claire have the highest concentrations of telecommuters, while Cedarburg offers a unique walkable café culture minutes from Milwaukee.