Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Port Washington, WI
Thinking of moving to Port Washington, WI? With a friendly population of 12,592, this lakeside community offers affordable living—median home prices around $320,000 and average rents of $1,150. Residents enjoy low crime rates (just 57 violent crimes per 100k), excellent public schools, and short commutes averaging 23 minutes. The city boasts high educational attainment, strong incomes, and four seasons with 53% sunny days—plus convenient access to healthcare and scenic Lake Michigan views.
Demographics - Port Washington, WI
Demographics - Port Washington, WI
Port Washington is home to about 12,600 residents, with a median age of 42, reflecting a mature, family-friendly community. The city is predominantly White, with small but present Black and Asian populations, and around 6% of residents speak a language other than English at home. With a population density of 2,400 per square mile and a nearly balanced gender ratio, it offers a welcoming and neighborly atmosphere.
Population:
12,592
Density:
2,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.3
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.5%
Black:
1.7%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
3.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Port Washington, WI?
Living in Port Washington is affordable, with a cost of living index slightly below the national average at 98.7. The median home value is $320,000 and average rents are $1,150, making it attractive for both homeowners and renters. Utilities and everyday expenses generally remain reasonable, while state taxes range from 4.0% to 7.65%.
Median House Value:
$320,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,090
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,650
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$575
State Taxes:
Low:
4.0%
|
High:
7.65%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.7
Grocery:
98.1
Housing:
95.5
Utilities:
101.0
Transportation:
95.8
Health Care:
97.7
Miscellaneous:
96.4
Crime
Is Port Washington, WI a safe place to live?
Port Washington boasts a notably low crime rate, with only 57 violent crimes and 910 property crimes per 100,000 residents. Residents have a 1 in 1,750 chance of experiencing violent crime, offering peace of mind to families and newcomers. This safe environment is a major draw for those seeking a tranquil community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
57
Property Crimes Per 100k:
910
Crime Index:
967
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,750
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 110
Weather
What is the weather like in Port Washington, WI year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with warm summers averaging 80°F and cold winters dipping to 15°F. The city enjoys 53% sunny days and about 32 inches of annual rainfall, perfect for those who appreciate seasonal changes. Outdoor activities abound, particularly along the scenic Lake Michigan shoreline.
Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
28°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
56°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Port Washington's households enjoy a median income of $81,800, with a low poverty rate of 6.1% and an unemployment rate of just 2.7%. Nearly all adults have completed high school, and over 42% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, fostering a well-educated and prosperous community. Average commute times are a manageable 23 minutes, reflecting a convenient small-town lifestyle.
Median Income:
$46,500
Household Income:
$81,800
Family Income:
$102,300
Per Capita Income:
$41,200
Income Male:
$54,900
Income Female:
$41,600
Poverty Rate:
6.1%
Non English Speakers:
6.1%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
2.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
22.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
97.2%
Bachelors or More:
42.1%
Education
How are the schools in Port Washington, WI?
Families benefit from highly rated public schools like Port Washington High School and Thomas Jefferson Middle School, both with favorable student-teacher ratios. Private education is also available, and several colleges—including Concordia University Wisconsin—are within a short drive. The city’s educational resources support students of all ages and backgrounds.
Public Schools
Name:
Port Washington High School
Street:
427 W Jackson St
Phone:
262-268-5500
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Name:
Thomas Jefferson Middle School
Street:
1403 N Holden St
Phone:
262-268-5800
Students:
700
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.6
Private Schools
Name:
St. John XXIII Catholic School
Street:
1802 N Wisconsin St
Phone:
262-284-2682
Students:
300
Colleges
Name:
Concordia University Wisconsin
City:
Mequon
State:
WI
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
5,300
Name:
Milwaukee Area Technical College
City:
Mequon
State:
WI
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
12,000
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is strong, with major hospitals like Aurora Medical Center Grafton and Columbia St. Mary's Ozaukee nearby, both offering emergency services. The city has 2.4 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 96% health insurance coverage. Residents benefit from reliable and comprehensive healthcare options close to home.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Aurora Medical Center Grafton
Address:
975 Port Washington Rd, Grafton, WI 53024
Phone:
(262) 329-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Columbia St. Mary's Ozaukee
Address:
13111 N Port Washington Rd, Mequon, WI 53097
Phone:
(262) 243-7300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
96.1%
Health Care Index:
78.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Port Washington, WI?
Port Washington’s housing market is stable, with a median home price of $320,000 and average rents at $1,150 for a two-bedroom. About 68% of homes are owner-occupied, and the vacancy rate is low, suggesting a healthy demand for housing. Home values have appreciated by over 5% in the past year, making it an inviting market for buyers and investors.
Median Home Price:
$320,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents receive vehicle services through the Wisconsin DMV, conveniently accessible both online and in Madison. The DMV provides comprehensive licensing, registration, and title services for new and current residents. Essential information and online services are available at the Wisconsin Department of Transportation website.
State:
Wisconsin
Department:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
932 W. Washington Ave, Madison, WI 53703
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.