Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wausau, WI
Wausau, WI is a friendly, affordable city of about 40,000 residents, offering a low cost of living with median home prices around $177,300 and average rents near $830. The area features short commute times (about 16 minutes), access to quality healthcare, and well-rated local schools. Wausau boasts a low violent crime rate, four-season climate with crisp winters, and a welcoming, diverse community—making it a great place for families and those seeking value in the Midwest.
Demographics - Wausau, WI
Demographics - Wausau, WI
Wausau is home to nearly 40,000 residents with a median age of 39, reflecting a balanced and diverse community. The population is predominantly White (80.5%) with a notable Asian presence (11.5%), and about 9% speak a language other than English at home. The city's moderate population density provides a comfortable urban environment without feeling crowded.
Population:
39,994
Density:
2,100 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.1
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
80.5%
Black:
1.4%
Asian:
11.5%
Others:
6.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wausau, WI?
Wausau offers a very affordable cost of living, with median home values around $177,300 and average rents at $830 per month. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, making it easier for families and individuals to stretch their budgets. Utilities and transportation costs remain reasonable, contributing to the city’s reputation for value.
Median House Value:
$177,300
Gross Rent:
$830
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,020
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,210
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$460
State Taxes:
Low:
3.54%
|
High:
7.65%
Cost Of Living Index:
86.5
Grocery:
94.1
Housing:
67.3
Utilities:
97.2
Transportation:
80.5
Health Care:
105.7
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Wausau, WI a safe place to live?
Wausau maintains a low crime rate, with just 158 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate far below national averages. Residents enjoy a strong sense of safety, with a 1 in 633 chance of experiencing violent crime. This secure environment is particularly appealing for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
158
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,650
Crime Index:
1,808
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 633
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 61
Weather
What is the weather like in Wausau, WI year-round?
Wausau experiences all four seasons, featuring cold, crisp winters that dip to 7°F and warm summers reaching up to 81°F. The city receives about 33 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine nearly half the year. Residents can expect a classic Midwest climate with notable seasonal changes.
Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
24°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
Households in Wausau typically earn around $59,500, with a poverty rate of 11.8% and an unemployment rate of just 3.2%. The area is highly educated, with over 91% holding at least a high school diploma, and commute times average a quick 16 minutes. The city’s welcoming and stable neighborhoods support a strong sense of community.
Median Income:
$34,540
Household Income:
$59,500
Family Income:
$73,700
Per Capita Income:
$30,420
Income Male:
$39,700
Income Female:
$31,100
Poverty Rate:
11.8%
Non English Speakers:
9.2%
Rent:
$830
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
16.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.8%
Bachelors or More:
27.3%
Education
How are the schools in Wausau, WI?
Wausau features strong public and private school options, including Wausau East High School and John Muir Middle School, both known for favorable student-teacher ratios. Higher education is easily accessible through Northcentral Technical College and UW-Stevens Point at Wausau. The city’s commitment to education supports learners of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Wausau East High School
Street:
2607 N 18th St
Phone:
715-261-0650
Students:
1,040
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Name:
John Muir Middle School
Street:
1400 W Stewart Ave
Phone:
715-261-0100
Students:
1,010
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Private Schools
Name:
Newman Catholic High School
Street:
1130 W Bridge St
Phone:
715-845-8274
Students:
210
Colleges
Name:
Northcentral Technical College
City:
Wausau
State:
WI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
6,200
Name:
UW-Stevens Point at Wausau
City:
Wausau
State:
WI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,100
Healthcare
Wausau provides quality healthcare access, anchored by major hospitals like Aspirus Wausau Hospital and Marshfield Medical Center-Weston. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and a health insurance coverage rate of 94%, most locals can easily find care. The city’s healthcare index points to reliable and accessible medical services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Aspirus Wausau Hospital
Address:
333 Pine Ridge Blvd, Wausau, WI 54401
Phone:
(715) 847-2121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Marshfield Medical Center-Weston
Address:
3400 Ministry Pkwy, Weston, WI 54476
Phone:
(715) 393-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.0%
Health Care Index:
76.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wausau, WI?
The housing market in Wausau is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $177,300 and a healthy owner-occupied rate of 58%. Rental options are also accessible, with average two-bedroom rents at $830 and a low vacancy rate. The area has seen steady home appreciation, making it attractive for buyers and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$177,300
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$830
Owner Occupied Rate:
58.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Wausau’s DMV services are managed by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, conveniently located on Stewart Avenue. Residents can access a full range of motor vehicle and licensing services in town or online. The local office is accessible for both new arrivals and current residents.
State:
Wisconsin
Department:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
2101 Stewart Ave, Suite 300, Wausau, WI 54401
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.