Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Eau Claire, WI
Thinking of moving to Eau Claire, WI? With around 69,000 residents, Eau Claire offers affordable living—median home prices are about $232,000 and rents average $970. The city is known for its friendly Midwestern vibe, short average commutes of just 17 minutes, and a strong local education scene with both K-12 and college options. You’ll enjoy four distinct seasons, low violent crime (151 per 100K), and quality healthcare—all making Eau Claire a great place to live, work, and study.
Demographics - Eau Claire, WI
Demographics - Eau Claire, WI
Eau Claire is home to nearly 69,500 residents, with a youthful median age of 32.9 and a balanced gender ratio. The city is predominantly White (88.6%), with a growing Asian community and about 8% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density fosters a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere.
Population:
69,421
Density:
2,340 per sq mi
Median Age:
32.9
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
88.6%
Black:
1.6%
Asian:
5.5%
Others:
4.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Eau Claire, WI?
Eau Claire offers an affordable cost of living, with a median home value around $232,000 and average rent near $970. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, making it an attractive choice for families and professionals seeking value. Utility and transportation costs are also reasonable, supporting a comfortable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$232,000
Gross Rent:
$970
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,110
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,320
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$540
State Taxes:
Low:
3.54%
|
High:
7.65%
Cost Of Living Index:
91.7
Grocery:
94.3
Housing:
81.9
Utilities:
97.2
Transportation:
89.2
Health Care:
96.8
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Eau Claire, WI a safe place to live?
Eau Claire maintains a low crime rate, with only 151 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate well below national averages. Residents have a 1 in 662 chance of experiencing violent crime, contributing to a safe and secure community feel. This makes the city especially appealing for families and individuals prioritizing safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
151
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,529
Crime Index:
1,680
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 662
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 65
Weather
What is the weather like in Eau Claire, WI year-round?
Eau Claire experiences all four seasons, featuring cold winters with lows around 7°F and warm summers reaching up to 82°F. The area receives about 33 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine on over half of its days. Seasonal changes offer plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
27°F
Spring
Min:
33°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Local households in Eau Claire earn a median income of $59,300, with a low unemployment rate of 3% and a typical commute time of just under 17 minutes. The community is well-educated, with nearly 96% holding a high school diploma or higher. These factors contribute to a stable and neighborly environment for newcomers.
Median Income:
$40,800
Household Income:
$59,300
Family Income:
$76,200
Per Capita Income:
$30,900
Income Male:
$44,200
Income Female:
$36,000
Poverty Rate:
16.1%
Non English Speakers:
7.8%
Rent:
$970
Unemployment Rate:
3.0%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
16.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
95.9%
Bachelors or More:
33.7%
Education
How are the schools in Eau Claire, WI?
Eau Claire offers strong educational opportunities, including well-regarded public and private schools and higher education institutions like the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire. Local high schools maintain favorable student-teacher ratios, and the city’s colleges serve thousands of students. Families and students benefit from a comprehensive and diverse learning environment.
Public Schools
Name:
Memorial High School
Street:
2225 Keith St
Phone:
715-852-6300
Students:
1,650
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
North High School
Street:
1801 Piedmont Rd
Phone:
715-852-6600
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Private Schools
Name:
Regis High School
Street:
2100 Fenwick Ave
Phone:
715-830-2271
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire
City:
Eau Claire
State:
WI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
10,500
Name:
Chippewa Valley Technical College
City:
Eau Claire
State:
WI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
7,600
Healthcare
Eau Claire residents benefit from excellent healthcare access, including major hospitals like Mayo Clinic Health System and HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 95% health insurance coverage, quality medical care is readily available. The city’s healthcare resources support a healthy and active lifestyle.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mayo Clinic Health System - Eau Claire Hospital
Address:
1221 Whipple St, Eau Claire, WI 54703
Phone:
(715) 838-3311
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital
Address:
900 W Clairemont Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54701
Phone:
(715) 839-4121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.7%
Health Care Index:
79.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Eau Claire, WI?
The housing market in Eau Claire features a median home price of $232,000 and an average two-bedroom rent at $970, making home ownership and renting accessible. With a 56% owner-occupancy rate and steady home appreciation, it’s a stable environment for buyers and renters alike. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates indicate a healthy, competitive market.
Median Home Price:
$232,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$970
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.4%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle services in Eau Claire are handled by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s local DMV office on Melby Street. Residents can access licensing, registration, and online services efficiently. The DMV provides convenient support for all motor vehicle needs.
State:
Wisconsin
Department:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3115 Melby Street, Eau Claire, WI 54703
Phone:
1-608-264-7447
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.