Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Racine, WI
Considering a move to Racine, WI? With a population of 76,000, Racine offers affordable housing (median home price: $153,000, rent: $960) and a reasonable cost of living index. Commutes average just 22 minutes, and the city sits on beautiful Lake Michigan. While crime rates are above the national average, residents enjoy four distinct seasons, solid public schools, and access to major healthcare facilities. Racine is ideal for those seeking lakeside living and budget-friendly housing.
Demographics - Racine, WI
Demographics - Racine, WI
Racine is home to about 76,000 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of 35.6 years. The city features a balanced gender ratio and a mix of cultures, including significant White, Black, and Hispanic populations, with nearly 14% of residents speaking a language other than English at home.
Population:
76,000
Density:
3,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.6
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.7%

Ethnic Composition
White:
55.2%
Black:
23.1%
Asian:
1.3%
Others:
0.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Racine, WI?
Racine boasts a cost of living index well below the national average, making it an affordable option for families and individuals. Median home values are around $153,000, and average rents are $960, with everyday expenses such as groceries and utilities remaining budget-friendly.
Median House Value:
$153,000
Gross Rent:
$960
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,270
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
3.54%
|
High:
7.65%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.6
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
61.4
Utilities:
99.1
Transportation:
89.7
Health Care:
97.4
Miscellaneous:
98.3
Crime
Is Racine, WI a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Racine are higher than the national average, with residents facing a 1 in 270 chance of a violent crime and a 1 in 38 chance of a property crime. While these statistics are notable, many neighborhoods maintain a strong sense of community and local safety initiatives.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
370
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,620
Crime Index:
2,990
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 270
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 38
Weather
What is the weather like in Racine, WI year-round?
Racine experiences four distinct seasons, including warm summers with highs around 80°F and cold winters dropping to 16°F. The area receives about 33 inches of rain annually and enjoys sunshine just over half the year, making it appealing for those who appreciate seasonal variety.

Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
32°F

Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
61°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
Typical households in Racine earn about $49,500 annually, though the city faces a higher poverty rate of nearly 20%. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, commute times are short at around 22 minutes, and only a small percentage rely on public transportation.
Median Income:
$25,800
Household Income:
$49,500
Family Income:
$62,300
Per Capita Income:
$25,800
Income Male:
$39,800
Income Female:
$32,600
Poverty Rate:
19.9%
Non English Speakers:
13.7%
Rent:
$960
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
21.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
83.9%
Bachelors or More:
18.2%
Education
How are the schools in Racine, WI?
Racine offers a range of educational options, including several well-attended public schools and private institutions. Higher education is easily accessible at Gateway Technical College within the city, while the University of Wisconsin–Parkside is just a short drive away.

Public Schools
Name:
Case High School
Street:
7345 Washington Ave
Phone:
262-619-4200
Students:
1,600
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.6
Name:
Gifford School
Street:
8332 Northwestern Ave
Phone:
262-619-4550
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2

Private Schools
Name:
St. Catherine's High School
Street:
1200 Park Ave
Phone:
262-632-2785
Students:
450

Colleges
Name:
Gateway Technical College
City:
Racine
State:
WI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
20,000
Name:
University of Wisconsin–Parkside
City:
Kenosha
State:
WI
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
4,200
Healthcare
Residents have access to quality healthcare, including the well-equipped Ascension All Saints Hospital, and about 91% have health insurance coverage. The city offers a solid physician-to-population ratio, ensuring convenient access to medical services.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Ascension All Saints Hospital
Address:
3801 Spring St, Racine, WI 53405
Phone:
(262) 687-4011
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.3%
Health Care Index:
77.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Racine, WI?
Racine's housing market is attractive for buyers and renters alike, with a median home price of $153,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $960. Over half of the homes are owner-occupied, and the area has experienced steady home appreciation in recent years.
Median Home Price:
$153,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$960
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.6%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing in Racine are managed by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, with a convenient office located nearby in Sturtevant. Residents can access services online or by phone for added flexibility.
State:
Wisconsin
Department:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
9531 Rayne Road, Sturtevant, WI 53177
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.