Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Wauwatosa, WI
Thinking of moving to Wauwatosa, WI? With a population of 48,420 and a median home price around $325,000, this Milwaukee suburb offers a balanced cost of living and strong educational opportunities—nearly 60% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Commute times are manageable at just over 20 minutes on average, and the city boasts top-tier healthcare access and well-rated public schools. Enjoy four distinct seasons, low violent crime rates, and a vibrant community ideal for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Wauwatosa, WI
Demographics - Wauwatosa, WI
Wauwatosa is home to about 48,420 residents, with a population density of 3,600 per square mile and a median age of nearly 40. The city is predominantly White, but has a growing mix of Black, Asian, and other communities, and around 8% of residents speak a language other than English at home. The gender balance slightly favors females, creating a diverse and welcoming atmosphere for newcomers.
Population:
48,420
Density:
3,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.9
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
83.4%
Black:
6.2%
Asian:
5.7%
Others:
4.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Wauwatosa, WI?
The cost of living in Wauwatosa is just above the national average, with a median home value of $325,000 and typical rents for a two-bedroom near $1,320. Utilities and everyday expenses are also modest, while state taxes range from 3.54% to 7.65%. Residents enjoy a high quality of life thanks to accessible housing options and reasonable living costs.
Median House Value:
$325,000
Gross Rent:
$1,320
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,855
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$710
State Taxes:
Low:
3.54%
|
High:
7.65%
Cost Of Living Index:
103.5
Grocery:
101.2
Housing:
97.5
Utilities:
104.1
Transportation:
105.6
Health Care:
101.7
Miscellaneous:
99.8
Crime
Is Wauwatosa, WI a safe place to live?
Wauwatosa maintains a low violent crime rate, with just 161 incidents per 100,000 people, and property crime is also relatively moderate. Residents have a 1 in 620 chance of experiencing violent crime, making it a safer choice compared to many urban areas. The community prioritizes safety, offering peace of mind to families and individuals alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
161
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,275
Crime Index:
2,436
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 620
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 44
Weather
What is the weather like in Wauwatosa, WI year-round?
Wauwatosa experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging 16°F to 31°F and warm summers ranging from 62°F to 82°F. The city enjoys about 54% sunny days each year and receives roughly 34.5 inches of rainfall. This varied climate supports a vibrant outdoor lifestyle for residents who appreciate seasonal changes.

Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
31°F

Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
82°F

Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
34.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Residents of Wauwatosa benefit from strong household incomes, with a median of $91,600 and a low poverty rate of 5.8%. The community is highly educated—over 97% have completed high school and nearly 60% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. With an average commute of just 21 minutes, the area appeals to professionals and families seeking both convenience and opportunity.
Median Income:
$53,800
Household Income:
$91,600
Family Income:
$115,200
Per Capita Income:
$48,300
Income Male:
$61,400
Income Female:
$50,200
Poverty Rate:
5.8%
Non English Speakers:
7.8%
Rent:
$1,320
Unemployment Rate:
3.1%
Public Transport Usage:
3.9%
Commute Time:
20.8 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
97.1%
Bachelors or More:
59.8%
Education
How are the schools in Wauwatosa, WI?
Wauwatosa is known for its well-rated public schools, including Wauwatosa East and West High Schools, both offering strong academic programs and manageable class sizes. The city also provides access to private education and is located within a short drive of major colleges like Marquette University and Milwaukee Area Technical College. This blend of K-12 and higher education options supports lifelong learning for residents.

Public Schools
Name:
Wauwatosa East High School
Street:
7500 Milwaukee Ave
Phone:
414-773-2000
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.1
Name:
Wauwatosa West High School
Street:
11400 W Center St
Phone:
414-773-3000
Students:
1,120
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7

Private Schools
Name:
Milwaukee Lutheran High School
Street:
9700 W Grantosa Dr
Phone:
414-461-6000
Students:
850

Colleges
Name:
Milwaukee Area Technical College
City:
Milwaukee
State:
WI
Distance:
4 miles
Students:
27,000
Name:
Marquette University
City:
Milwaukee
State:
WI
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
11,800
Healthcare
Wauwatosa offers excellent healthcare access, featuring major hospitals like Froedtert Hospital and Children's Wisconsin. With 3.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 95% of people covered by health insurance, the city ensures comprehensive medical care for all ages. The local healthcare index reflects strong service quality and availability.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Froedtert Hospital
Address:
9200 W Wisconsin Ave, Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Phone:
(414) 805-3000
Type:
General & Teaching
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Children's Wisconsin
Address:
8915 W. Connell Ct, Milwaukee, WI 53226
Phone:
(414) 266-2000
Type:
Pediatric
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
3.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.6%
Health Care Index:
76.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Wauwatosa, WI?
The housing market in Wauwatosa is stable, with a median home price of $325,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 62%. Home values have appreciated by over 7% in the past year, and rental vacancies remain low at 4.7%. These trends make the city attractive for both homebuyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$325,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,320
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents can access vehicle and licensing services through the Wisconsin Department of Transportation DMV located nearby in Milwaukee. The office offers a range of motor vehicle services both in-person and online, making it convenient for Wauwatosa residents to manage their driving needs.
State:
Wisconsin
Department:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
7301 W. Mill Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53218
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.