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Transparent & data-driven

How We Ranked the Best Cities

Each city is scored against the state average on five weighted factors, normalized to control for regional cost differences and market size. Home prices, rents, and inventory come straight from Houzeo's live MLS feed; everything else is sourced from verified government datasets.

Scoring weights

  • Affordability30%

    Median home price, price per sq ft & rent relative to local incomes vs. the state average.

  • Safety & crime25%

    Violent and property crime rates per capita from FBI reporting vs. the state average.

  • Jobs & income20%

    Median household income, employment levels & job stability vs. the state average.

  • Housing & inventory15%

    Active listings, days on market & buyer competition from Houzeo’s live MLS feed.

  • Lifestyle & amenities10%

    Schools, walkability, commute times & access to everyday amenities — the tiebreaker.

Explore the Best Neighborhoods of Cities in Wisconsin

Your New Home is Waiting for You in Wisconsin

Top 3 Best Places to Retire in Wisconsin

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Top 3 Best Places to Live in Wisconsin for Families

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Top 3 Best Places to Live in Wisconsin for Young Adults

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Best Affordable Places to Live in Wisconsin

Wisconsin includes several communities offering lower housing costs and more manageable living expenses while keeping residents close to jobs and services. Here are some of the most affordable places to live in Wisconsin. These locations are ideal for individuals or families seeking value without sacrificing access to opportunities.

CityMedian Home PriceMedian RentCost of Living vs. State Avg.Affordability Score
Antigo $154,000$745arrow 23% lower8.7/10
Wisconsin Rapids $165,000$925arrow 10% lower8.1/10
Merrill $172,500$995arrow 21% lower8.1/10
Prairie Du Chien $250,000$750arrow 12% lower7.4/10
Wausau $215,500$1,175arrow 5% lower7.2/10

Safest Places to Live in Wisconsin

Safety is a top priority for those choosing a home in Wisconsin. The following communities consistently report some of the lowest levels of violent and property crime in the state, according to the latest data. From quiet villages to well-policed suburbs, these areas are among the safest places to live in Wisconsin.

Rank#1

Somerset

90/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#2

Barron

87/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#3

Walworth

84/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#4

River Falls

81/100

Score

Safest Safest

Rank#5

Washburn

40/100

Score

Safest Safest

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Based on information submitted to the MLS GRID from the REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE OF MINNESOTA, INC through Sep 9, 2026, 5:05 PM. IDX information is provided exclusively for consumers’ personal, non-commercial use. It may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. The data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed by MLS GRID. The use of the MLS GRID Data may be subject to an end-user license agreement prescribed by the Member Participant’s applicable MLS, if any and as amended from time to time. All data is obtained from various sources and may not have been verified by the broker or MLS GRID. Supplied Open House Information is subject to change without notice. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information.
Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. The property data presented reflects information otherwise available from public records. The real estate broker participating in MLS and providing this information may not have represented the buyer or seller in some or all of the transactions. Listings courtesy of Northstar MLS as distributed by MLS GRID. © 2026 Regional Multiple Listing Service of Minnesota, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Important Legal Disclosures

MLS Disclaimers
The market analysis provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Data is sourced from public records, industry reports, and third-party providers, and while Houzeo strives for accuracy, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

All estimates, projections, and historical data are based on statistical models and should not be relied upon as predictions of future market conditions. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and real estate market conditions may change due to various economic and regulatory factors. Users are responsible for conducting their own due diligence before making any real estate or financial decisions. Houzeo is not liable for any decisions or actions taken based on the information provided. Any unauthorized use, duplication, or distribution of the data may violate copyright laws and result in legal consequences. Certain information, tools and services on this page may be powered by third-party vendors. Houzeo does not control or guarantee the accuracy, reliability, or functionality of such third-party services.