Green Bay, WI, known for its iconic football team and the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field, is more than just a sports enthusiast's paradise. It's a city with a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a housing market that's attracting attention from both locals and outsiders. If you're considering making the move to Green Bay, you're likely wondering about the current state of home prices and what the data actually shows.
The question of whether Green Bay is a buyer's or seller's market is complex, especially in 2026, where economic shifts and demographic changes are influencing housing prices. Understanding the nuances of the local real estate market requires digging into the numbers and looking at specific neighborhoods, schools, safety, and the job market. This analysis will provide a comprehensive overview, helping potential homebuyers and renters make informed decisions about their housing choices in Green Bay.
Cost of Living & Home Prices
The cost of living in Green Bay is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the United States. However, like many places, it has its share of expensive and more budget-friendly areas. The median home price in Green Bay hovers around $240,000, with median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment at about $1,100 per month. Utilities, such as electricity, water, and gas, tend to be reasonable, but can fluctuate based on usage and the time of year.
A closer look at the numbers can be seen in the following table:
| Category | Median Value |
|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $240,000 |
| Median Rent | $1,100/month |
| Median Household Income | $63,000 |
| Price-to-Rent Ratio | 18 |
Taxes in Wisconsin can be a consideration for homeowners, with property taxes averaging around 1.68% of the home's value annually. This can impact the overall affordability, especially for first-time buyers or those on a tight budget.
Best Neighborhoods
Green Bay has a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles and budgets. The Downtown area, with its walk score of 82, offers a mix of old and new, with renovated homes and modern apartments. Prices here can range from $150,000 for a smaller, older home to over $400,000 for a newer, larger property. The nearby Olde North neighborhood is known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets, with prices generally in the $200,000 to $350,000 range.
For families, the Howard neighborhood offers a more suburban feel, with larger homes and yards, and is served by the highly-rated Bay Port High School. Home prices here can range from $250,000 to over $500,000. The Village of Bellevue, just south of Green Bay, also offers a family-friendly atmosphere, with a mix of newer subdivisions and older homes, priced from $200,000 to $400,000.
On the west side of Green Bay, the area around the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is popular with students and young professionals, offering more affordable housing options, including apartments and smaller homes priced from $100,000 to $250,000.
Schools
The Green Bay Area Public School District serves the city, with several schools receiving high ratings. Bay Port High School, with a rating of 8 out of 10, is particularly notable for its academic achievements and extracurricular opportunities. Other highly-rated schools include De Pere High School and Notre Dame de la Baie Academy, a private Catholic school.
For families with younger children, elementary schools like Aldo Leopold Community School and Wequiock Elementary are highly regarded, with ratings of 7 and 8 out of 10, respectively. The district's commitment to education is evident in its programs and facilities, making it an attractive aspect for those considering moving to the area.
Safety
Green Bay is generally considered a safe city, with lower crime rates compared to other cities of similar size. However, like any place, there are areas that are safer than others. The downtown area and most residential neighborhoods have minimal crime, with most incidents being petty theft or vandalism.
Areas to be cautious about include parts of the east side, particularly at night, where there have been reports of higher crime activity. The neighborhood around the university is also an area to be aware of, especially during late hours, due to the typical issues associated with a college town.
Job Market
Green Bay's economy is diversified, with major industries including healthcare, manufacturing, and education. Bellin Health and Aurora BayCare Medical Center are among the top employers in the healthcare sector, while companies like Georgia-Pacific and Schneider National provide opportunities in manufacturing and logistics.
The job market also supports remote work, with many companies adopting flexible work arrangements. This, combined with the city's relatively low cost of living, makes Green Bay an attractive location for remote workers looking for a better quality of life without sacrificing career opportunities.
Major employers like the Green Bay Packers and the Oneida Nation also contribute to the local economy, providing jobs in entertainment, hospitality, and gaming. The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is another significant employer, offering positions in education and research.
The Verdict
If you're a first-time buyer prioritizing schools and safety, looking at neighborhoods like Howard or the area around Bay Port High School would be a wise decision. For those on a tighter budget, areas like the west side near the university or the Village of Bellevue might offer more affordable options without sacrificing too much in terms of amenities and quality of life.
However, if you're looking for the ultimate Green Bay experience, with easy access to downtown and Lambeau Field, be prepared for higher prices. Ultimately, Green Bay offers a unique blend of small-town charm and urban amenities, making it a great choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Explore neighborhood-by-neighborhood data on WYLT: Green Bay, WI (Green Bay).
Get the full data-driven report on any neighborhood at WYLT's neighborhood finder.
