Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Nelma, WI
Considering a move to Nelma, WI? This tiny rural community of around 80 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices at $120,000 and average rent just $660. Crime rates are low, and you’ll enjoy a peaceful, tight-knit setting amid the natural beauty of northern Wisconsin. Average commutes are under 30 minutes, schools are nearby in Florence, and the climate features snowy winters and mild summers—perfect for outdoor lovers seeking quiet country life.
Demographics - Nelma, WI
Nelma is a small, close-knit community of about 80 residents, characterized by a predominantly White population and a median age of 48, reflecting a mature demographic. With a very low population density of just 5 people per square mile, newcomers can expect a peaceful, rural setting and a quiet pace of life.
Population:
Approx. 80
Density:
5 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.1
Gender Ratio:
106 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
1.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
97.5%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
1.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Nelma, WI?
Nelma offers a notably affordable cost of living, with median home values around $120,000 and average rent at $660 per month. Utilities and everyday expenses are below the national average, making it a budget-friendly choice for those seeking economical rural living.
Median House Value:
$120,000
Gross Rent:
$660
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$365
State Taxes:
Low:
3.54%
|
High:
7.65%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.0
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
66.8
Utilities:
98.6
Transportation:
94.1
Health Care:
97.3
Miscellaneous:
90.7
Crime
Is Nelma, WI a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Nelma are quite low, with a chance of violent crime at just 1 in 1,493 and property crime at 1 in 126, contributing to a strong sense of safety. The area’s low crime index makes it an attractive option for families and retirees seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
67
Property Crimes Per 100k:
795
Crime Index:
862
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,493
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 126
Weather
What is the weather like in Nelma, WI year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with snowy winters averaging lows of 2°F and summers reaching comfortable highs near 78°F. The area receives about 31 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunny days about half the year, supporting a variety of outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
2°F
Max:
23°F

Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
59°F

Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
78°F

Fall
Min:
33°F
Max:
57°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
30.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
50%
Neighbors
Locals enjoy a median household income of $48,000, and the poverty rate is moderate at 11.5%. With a high school graduation rate above 91% and average commute times under 30 minutes, Nelma offers a supportive and stable environment for families and individuals alike.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$48,000
Family Income:
$62,000
Per Capita Income:
$26,500
Income Male:
$32,000
Income Female:
$24,000
Poverty Rate:
11.5%
Non English Speakers:
1.2%
Rent:
$660
Unemployment Rate:
3.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
29.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.0%
Bachelors or More:
15.2%
Education
How are the schools in Nelma, WI?
Students in Nelma attend nearby Florence public schools, known for small class sizes and a supportive learning environment. For higher education, Nicolet College in Rhinelander is within commuting distance, offering accessible options for lifelong learners.

Public Schools
Name:
Florence Elementary School
Street:
5844 Bill Anderson Dr
Phone:
715-528-3215
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Name:
Florence Middle/High School
Street:
425 Olive Ave
Phone:
715-528-3241
Students:
260
Student Teacher Ratio:
12.1

Colleges
Name:
Nicolet College
City:
Rhinelander
State:
WI
Distance:
37 miles
Students:
1,800
Healthcare
Healthcare access is solid, with major hospitals such as Aspirus Rhinelander and Aspirus Eagle River located nearby and over 93% of residents having health insurance. The area offers general and emergency medical services, ensuring peace of mind for residents.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Aspirus Rhinelander Hospital
Address:
2251 N Shore Dr, Rhinelander, WI 54501
Phone:
(715) 361-2000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Aspirus Eagle River Hospital
Address:
201 Hospital Rd, Eagle River, WI 54521
Phone:
(715) 479-7411
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.1%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Nelma, WI?
The housing market in Nelma is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $120,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 82.5%. Home values are appreciating steadily, and the rental market remains accessible with low vacancy and foreclosure rates.
Median Home Price:
$120,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$660
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Nelma residents are served by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s Division of Motor Vehicles, providing access to licensing and registration services both online and at the main office in Madison. The DMV offers comprehensive support for vehicle and driver needs across the state.
State:
Wisconsin
Department:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation - Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
4822 Madison Yards Way, Madison, WI 53705
Phone:
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.