Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sparta, WI
Considering a move to Sparta, WI? This friendly city of 10,137 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $196,000 and average rents at $900. Residents enjoy a short average commute of 18.6 minutes, low violent crime rates (165 per 100K), and a tight-knit community feel. Sparta features quality public schools, a local hospital, and four vibrant seasons with 57% sunny days, making it a great choice for families and those seeking a relaxed pace of life.
Demographics - Sparta, WI
Demographics - Sparta, WI
Sparta, WI is home to just over 10,000 residents, with a median age of nearly 39 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is predominantly White, but also includes a mix of other ethnicities and about 5% non-English speakers. Its population density offers a small-town atmosphere while still providing a vibrant local culture.
Population:
10,137
Density:
1,170 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.9
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
91.0%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
1.5%
Others:
6.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Sparta, WI?
Living in Sparta is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values around $196,000. Monthly rent for a typical apartment is about $900, and essential expenses like utilities and groceries remain affordable. State income taxes are moderate, making the city attractive for individuals and families seeking value.
Median House Value:
$196,000
Gross Rent:
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$900
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,250
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$470
State Taxes:
Low:
3.54%
|
High:
7.65%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.5
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
73.8
Utilities:
98.4
Transportation:
92.3
Health Care:
94.5
Miscellaneous:
88.7
Crime
Is Sparta, WI a safe place to live?
Sparta boasts low violent crime rates, with only 165 incidents per 100,000 residents and a rare chance of encountering violent crime (1 in 606). Property crime is more common but still manageable, providing residents with a generally safe environment. The city’s safety makes it appealing for families and those seeking peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
165
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,050
Crime Index:
1,215
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 606
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 95
Weather
What is the weather like in Sparta, WI year-round?
Sparta experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows near 8°F and warm summers reaching up to 83°F. Residents enjoy 57% sunny days and moderate annual rainfall of about 33.6 inches. The climate supports a range of outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
28°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
57%
Neighbors
Most Sparta households enjoy a median income of about $59,200, with a relatively low unemployment rate of 3.2%. The average commute is just under 19 minutes, and over 91% of adults have at least a high school education. The area offers a mix of renters and homeowners, fostering a welcoming, community-oriented feel.
Median Income:
$33,600
Household Income:
$59,200
Family Income:
$69,000
Per Capita Income:
$29,800
Income Male:
$41,000
Income Female:
$32,000
Poverty Rate:
11.1%
Non English Speakers:
5.1%
Rent:
$900
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
18.6 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.7%
Bachelors or More:
21.2%
Education
How are the schools in Sparta, WI?
Sparta offers quality educational opportunities, including public and private schools with favorable student-teacher ratios and a nearby technical college campus. Families benefit from strong high school graduation rates and the presence of higher education options within the city and nearby La Crosse. The area supports lifelong learning for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Sparta High School
Street:
506 N Black River St
Phone:
608-366-3500
Students:
760
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
Meadowview Middle School
Street:
1225 N Water St
Phone:
608-366-3497
Students:
620
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Private Schools
Name:
St. Patrick School
Street:
401 Mansion St
Phone:
608-269-4748
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
Western Technical College – Sparta Campus
City:
Sparta
State:
WI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
300
Name:
University of Wisconsin – La Crosse
City:
La Crosse
State:
WI
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
10,600
Healthcare
Sparta is served by the Mayo Clinic Health System – Sparta Hospital, providing comprehensive general and emergency care. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% health insurance coverage, locals have good access to medical services. The city’s healthcare index reflects solid care quality for a community its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mayo Clinic Health System – Sparta Hospital
Address:
310 West Main St, Sparta, WI 54656
Phone:
(608) 269-2132
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
71.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Sparta, WI?
The Sparta housing market is accessible, with median home prices around $196,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $900. A majority of residents own their homes, and vacancy rates remain healthy, indicating a stable market. Home values have appreciated modestly in the past year, making it a sound choice for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$196,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
59.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Sparta residents are served locally by the Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles office on West Wisconsin Street. The DMV provides a range of licensing and registration services, with additional online resources available through the state website. Convenient access helps streamline vehicle and identification needs.
State:
Wisconsin
Department:
Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
1101 West Wisconsin Street, Sparta, WI 54656
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.