Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Tomah, WI
Considering a move to Tomah, WI? This welcoming city of 9,540 offers affordable living with a median home price of $169,000 and average rent at $880. Enjoy shorter commutes (about 18 minutes), a low violent crime rate (221 per 100K), and a range of educational options including local public and private schools. Tomah experiences true Midwestern seasons, with cold winters, warm summers, and about 51% sunny days a year—making it an inviting spot for families and those seeking a close-knit, small-town lifestyle.
Demographics - Tomah, WI
Tomah is home to approximately 9,540 residents, with a balanced gender ratio and a median age of 39, reflecting a mix of young families and older adults. The city is predominantly White, with small but meaningful Black, Asian, and other minority communities, and nearly 7% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density gives Tomah a friendly small-town atmosphere while still offering diversity.
Population:
9,540
Density:
870 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.2
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
87.0%
Black:
1.5%
Asian:
1.1%
Others:
10.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Tomah, WI?
Tomah offers an affordable cost of living, with a median house value of $169,000 and typical rent around $880 per month. The overall cost of living index is 85.2, notably below the national average, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious families and retirees. Utilities and healthcare costs are close to the national average, while housing remains especially affordable.
Median House Value:
$169,000
Gross Rent:
$880
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,060
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,175
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$470
State Taxes:
Low:
3.54%
|
High:
7.65%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.2
Grocery:
93.4
Housing:
68.1
Utilities:
101.2
Transportation:
98.7
Health Care:
104.6
Miscellaneous:
89.8
Crime
Is Tomah, WI a safe place to live?
Tomah experiences a relatively low violent crime rate, with about 221 incidents per 100,000 people, and a 1 in 452 chance of being affected. Property crime is more common, but overall, the city maintains a safe and welcoming environment. Residents can feel secure enjoying the community’s amenities and neighborhoods.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
221
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,690
Crime Index:
1,911
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 452
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 59
Weather
What is the weather like in Tomah, WI year-round?
Tomah features classic Midwestern weather, with cold winters (average lows near 8°F) and warm summers (highs reaching 81°F). The city receives around 32.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine about 51% of the year. This climate offers a true four-season experience, with opportunities for outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
28°F
Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
51%
Neighbors
Residents of Tomah typically enjoy a median household income of about $54,900, with a poverty rate slightly above the national average at 13.8%. Commutes are short—averaging just under 18 minutes—and public transportation usage is low, reflecting the city’s small-town character. Most adults have completed high school, and a strong sense of community is evident throughout the area.
Median Income:
$26,800
Household Income:
$54,900
Family Income:
$66,000
Per Capita Income:
$28,100
Income Male:
$39,400
Income Female:
$29,200
Poverty Rate:
13.8%
Non English Speakers:
6.8%
Rent:
$880
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
17.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.9%
Bachelors or More:
17.2%
Education
How are the schools in Tomah, WI?
Tomah offers a range of educational options, including well-regarded public schools like Tomah High School and Tomah Middle School, as well as private schooling and access to Western Technical College. Student-to-teacher ratios are favorable, supporting personalized learning environments. For higher education, the city is within commuting distance of the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, expanding opportunities for local families and students.
Public Schools
Name:
Tomah High School
Street:
901 Lincoln Ave
Phone:
608-374-7358
Students:
980
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.3
Name:
Tomah Middle School
Street:
612 Hollister Ave
Phone:
608-374-7885
Students:
670
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.6
Private Schools
Name:
Queen of the Apostles School
Street:
303 W Monroe St
Phone:
608-372-5765
Students:
130
Colleges
Name:
Western Technical College - Tomah Campus
City:
Tomah
State:
WI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
300
Name:
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
City:
La Crosse
State:
WI
Distance:
45 miles
Students:
10,600
Healthcare
Tomah provides access to quality healthcare, anchored by Tomah Health, which offers general and emergency services. With 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 92% of people insured, medical care is readily available. The city’s healthcare index of 73.2 suggests services are accessible and affordable for most residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Tomah Health
Address:
501 Gopher Dr, Tomah, WI 54660
Phone:
(608) 372-2181
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.4%
Health Care Index:
73.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Tomah, WI?
The housing market in Tomah is highly affordable, with a median home price of $169,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $880. About 54% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area has seen a healthy 5.2% appreciation in home values over the past year. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates make Tomah an appealing place for both renters and buyers.
Median Home Price:
$169,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$880
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Tomah residents can handle vehicle and licensing needs at the local Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles office on Milwaukee Street. The DMV offers a full range of services, supported by a dedicated website and customer service phone line. Convenient local access makes routine registration and licensing tasks straightforward for new and existing residents.
State:
Wisconsin
Department:
Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
201 E. Milwaukee St, Tomah, WI 54660
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.