Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Shawano, WI
Considering a move to Shawano, WI? With a friendly population of around 8,900, Shawano features affordable housing (median home price of $146,000 and rents averaging $780) and a low cost of living. Residents enjoy short commute times (18 minutes), low crime rates (violent crime: 153 per 100K), and easy access to beautiful lakes and outdoor recreation. Shawano offers solid public schools, a strong sense of community, and four-season weather—making it a great spot for those seeking small-town charm and natural beauty.
Demographics - Shawano, WI
Demographics - Shawano, WI
Shawano is home to about 8,900 residents, with a median age of 41.3 years and a balanced gender ratio. The city has a diverse population, including a significant Native American community, and most people speak English as their primary language. Its moderate density creates a close-knit, small-town atmosphere ideal for families and those seeking community connections.
Population:
8,900
Density:
1,050 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.3
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
83.5%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
2.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Shawano, WI?
Shawano offers a very affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $146,000 and average rent around $780 per month. Overall expenses are well below the national average, especially for housing, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious movers. Residents also benefit from reasonable state taxes and manageable utility costs.
Median House Value:
$146,000
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$980
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,140
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$415
State Taxes:
Low:
3.54%
|
High:
7.65%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.7
Grocery:
92.5
Housing:
66.0
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
87.5
Health Care:
106.0
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Shawano, WI a safe place to live?
Shawano boasts a relatively low crime rate, with only 153 violent crimes and 1,185 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is just 1 in 654, helping to create a safe environment for families and individuals. The community's small size and close ties contribute to its secure, welcoming feel.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
153
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,185
Crime Index:
1,338
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 654
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 84
Weather
What is the weather like in Shawano, WI year-round?
Shawano experiences all four seasons, with cold winters that dip to 7°F and warm summers reaching up to 80°F. The area receives about 31.5 inches of rainfall yearly and enjoys sunshine roughly half the time. Residents can expect crisp autumns and pleasant springs, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities year-round.

Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
25°F

Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
61°F

Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
50%
Neighbors
The typical household income in Shawano is $49,300, with a poverty rate of 13.6% and an unemployment rate of 5%. Most residents have a high school diploma, and commute times are short—averaging just over 18 minutes. The community is friendly and stable, with a blend of long-time locals and newcomers.
Median Income:
$29,500
Household Income:
$49,300
Family Income:
$62,000
Per Capita Income:
$26,800
Income Male:
$40,000
Income Female:
$31,000
Poverty Rate:
13.6%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
5.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
18.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
88.7%
Bachelors or More:
16.9%
Education
How are the schools in Shawano, WI?
Shawano offers solid educational opportunities with well-rated public schools like Shawano Community High School and Hillcrest Primary. Families also have access to private schooling and nearby higher education, including a local technical college and the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay within commuting distance. The community values education, making it a supportive place for students of all ages.

Public Schools
Name:
Shawano Community High School
Street:
220 County Road B
Phone:
715-526-2175
Students:
750
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8
Name:
Hillcrest Primary School
Street:
1410 S. Waukechon St
Phone:
715-524-2134
Students:
460
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5

Private Schools
Name:
Sacred Heart Catholic School
Street:
124 E Center St
Phone:
715-526-5328
Students:
150

Colleges
Name:
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College - Shawano Regional Center
City:
Shawano
State:
WI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
250
Name:
University of Wisconsin–Green Bay
City:
Green Bay
State:
WI
Distance:
38 miles
Students:
8,700
Healthcare
Shawano provides quality healthcare with the ThedaCare Medical Center offering emergency services and general care. Residents enjoy good access to physicians, with 1.6 doctors per 1,000 people, and high health insurance coverage at 93.5%. The healthcare system is reliable for families and individuals alike.

Major Hospitals
Name:
ThedaCare Medical Center-Shawano
Address:
100 County Road B, Shawano, WI 54166
Phone:
(715) 526-2111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.5%
Health Care Index:
67.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Shawano, WI?
The Shawano housing market is highly affordable, with a median home price of $146,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $790. Most residents own their homes, and the area has seen steady home appreciation of 6.6% over the past year. Rental options are available, and the market remains accessible for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$146,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$790
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.6%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation at a conveniently located office on E. Green Bay Street. Residents can handle vehicle registration, licensing, and other needs both in person and online. The office is easily accessible for Shawano and surrounding communities.
State:
Wisconsin
Department:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1340 E. Green Bay St., Shawano, WI 54166
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.