Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Rice Lake, WI
Thinking of moving to Rice Lake, WI? With a welcoming population of just over 9,000, Rice Lake offers affordable living—median home prices are around $178,000 and average rent is about $855. Residents enjoy short commutes averaging 15 minutes, low violent crime rates, and access to quality schools and healthcare. The city’s scenic Northwoods setting, four-season climate, and close-knit community make it a great choice for those seeking small-town charm with modern amenities.
Demographics - Rice Lake, WI
Demographics - Rice Lake, WI
Rice Lake is home to just over 9,000 residents, with a median age of 41.8, reflecting a balanced, family-friendly community. The city is predominantly White at 94%, with a small but growing diversity and nearly 4% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density offers a blend of suburban comfort and small-town atmosphere.
Population:
9,060
Density:
1,340 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.8
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.1%
Black:
0.6%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
4.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Rice Lake, WI?
Living in Rice Lake is notably affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average at 82.4. The median home value stands at $178,000 and average rent is $855, making it an attractive option for both homeowners and renters. Residents enjoy lower-than-average costs on groceries, housing, and utilities, contributing to overall financial ease.
Median House Value:
$178,000
Gross Rent:
$855
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$950
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,110
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$445
State Taxes:
Low:
3.54%
|
High:
7.65%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.4
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
67.3
Utilities:
97.5
Transportation:
84.1
Health Care:
98.8
Miscellaneous:
91.5
Crime
Is Rice Lake, WI a safe place to live?
Rice Lake experiences relatively low violent crime, with only 123 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 813 chance of being a victim. Property crimes are higher, with a 1 in 70 chance, but overall, the city maintains a safe, welcoming environment. Most residents feel secure in their neighborhoods, supporting a strong sense of community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
123
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,420
Crime Index:
1,543
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 813
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 70
Weather
What is the weather like in Rice Lake, WI year-round?
Residents of Rice Lake experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging between 3°F and 23°F and warm summers reaching up to 80°F. The city receives about 30 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine nearly half the year. This varied climate supports a range of outdoor activities year-round, from winter sports to summer lake recreation.
Winter
Min:
3°F
Max:
23°F
Spring
Min:
31°F
Max:
58°F
Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
59°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
30.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
Rice Lake's community is friendly and close-knit, with a median household income of $47,800 and a poverty rate of 14%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and the average commute is a quick 15 minutes. The area combines affordability with a neighborly feel, making it appealing for families and individuals alike.
Median Income:
$27,900
Household Income:
$47,800
Family Income:
$59,000
Per Capita Income:
$27,900
Income Male:
$34,500
Income Female:
$25,700
Poverty Rate:
14.2%
Non English Speakers:
3.8%
Rent:
$855
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
15.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.4%
Bachelors or More:
19.5%
Education
How are the schools in Rice Lake, WI?
Education in Rice Lake is well-supported with quality public and private schools, including Rice Lake High School and St. Joseph School. The city is also home to a branch of the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, offering higher education opportunities close to home. With student-teacher ratios around 14:1, students receive focused attention and a solid academic foundation.
Public Schools
Name:
Rice Lake High School
Street:
30 S Wisconsin Ave
Phone:
715-234-2181
Students:
720
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4
Name:
Tainter Elementary School
Street:
202 W LaSalle Ave
Phone:
715-234-8065
Students:
385
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.7
Private Schools
Name:
St. Joseph School
Street:
128 W Humbird St
Phone:
715-234-7721
Students:
150
Colleges
Name:
University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire – Barron County
City:
Rice Lake
State:
WI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
460
Healthcare
Rice Lake residents benefit from solid healthcare access, led by Marshfield Medical Center and a high rate of health insurance coverage at nearly 92%. With 2.3 physicians per 1,000 people and a healthcare index of 79.1, the city ensures reliable medical services. Emergency care and general health needs are well supported locally.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Marshfield Medical Center - Rice Lake
Address:
1700 W Stout St, Rice Lake, WI 54868
Phone:
(715) 236-8100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
79.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Rice Lake, WI?
The Rice Lake housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $178,000 and a rental vacancy rate of 7.2%. More than half the homes are owner-occupied, and the market has seen steady appreciation at 5.1% over the past year. These conditions make it an attractive place for buyers and renters looking for stability and value.
Median Home Price:
$178,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$855
Owner Occupied Rate:
56.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Rice Lake residents can conveniently access DMV services at the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s local service center on Lakeshore Drive. The facility provides a full range of licensing and vehicle registration services. For details, residents can visit the Wisconsin DOT website or contact the center directly.
State:
Wisconsin
Department:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation
Address:
Rice Lake Service Center, 120 Lakeshore Dr, Rice Lake, WI 54868
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.