Wisconsin / Columbia County

Moving to Portage, WI

Thinking of making a move to Portage, WI? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Portage, WI

Considering a move to Portage, WI? This welcoming community of 10,387 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $197,000 and average rents near $950. Commute times average 21 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (52% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Portage's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Portage, WI

Portage has a population of 10,387 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 41 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 91% White, 3% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 6% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
10,387
Density
1,070 per sq mi
Median Age
40.6
Gender Ratio
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
6.3%

Ethnic Composition

White
91.2%
Black
2.9%
Asian
0.8%
Others
5.1%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Portage, WI?

The cost of living in Portage is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 88.6. Median home values are around $197,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $950. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$197,000
Gross Rent
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges
$115
Auto Insurance
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$1,200
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$510
State Taxes
Low: 3.54%| High: 7.65%
Cost Of Living Index
88.6
Grocery
94.0
Housing
72.0
Utilities
97.0
Transportation
93.0
Health Care
102.0
Miscellaneous
98.0

Crime

Is Portage, WI a safe place to live?

Portage is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 240 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 48. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Wisconsin.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
240
Property Crimes Per 100k
2,100
Crime Index
2,340
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 417
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 48

Weather

What is the weather like in Portage, WI year-round?

Portage experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 82°F and cold winters dipping to 10°F. The area receives about 33 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 52% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
10°F
Max
28°F

Summer

Min
56°F
Max
82°F

Spring

Min
34°F
Max
62°F

Fall

Min
38°F
Max
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches
33.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
52%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $53,300 and a low poverty rate of 12.2%. Over 94% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 18% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 21 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$35,400
Household Income
$53,300
Family Income
$66,400
Per Capita Income
$27,200
Income Male
$40,100
Income Female
$31,800
Poverty Rate
12.2%
Non English Speakers
6.3%
Rent
$950
Unemployment Rate
3.2%
Public Transport Usage
0.6%
Commute Time
20.5 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
93.7%
Bachelors or More
18.4%

Education

How are the schools in Portage, WI?

Portage offers quality education options, with public schools like Portage High School and Wayne Bartels Middle School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including University of Wisconsin – Madison. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Portage High School
Street
301 E Collins St
Phone
608-742-8545
Students
750
Student Teacher Ratio
14.5
Name
Wayne Bartels Middle School
Street
2505 New Pinery Rd
Phone
608-742-2165
Students
500
Student Teacher Ratio
13.8

Private Schools

Name
St. John’s Lutheran School
Street
430 W Emmett St
Phone
608-742-9000
Students
120

Colleges

Name
University of Wisconsin – Madison
City
Madison
State
WI
Distance
33 miles
Students
47,000

Healthcare

Portage residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Divine Savior Healthcare nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.6 per 1,000 people and 94.8% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Divine Savior Healthcare
Address
2817 New Pinery Rd, Portage, WI 53901
Phone
(608) 742-4131
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage
94.8%
Health Care Index
77.1

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Portage, WI?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $197,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 59%. The market has seen a 6.2% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 6.7%. Portage offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$197,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$950
Owner Occupied Rate
59.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
6.2%
New Construction Rate
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate
0.4%

DMV Information

Residents of Portage handle vehicle services through the Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles, conveniently located in Portage. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Wisconsin
Department
Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles
Address
2957 New Pinery Rd, Portage, WI 53901
Phone
1-608-264-7447

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.

FAQs About Moving to Portage, WI

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Portage, review the core fields on this page: population 10,387, median home value $197,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $950, commute time 20.5 minutes, and sunny days percentage 52%.

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