Let the numbers do the talking.
Appleton, WI vs Brookfield, WI
Appleton, WI vs Brookfield, WI: What the data shows
Appleton, WI is in Appleton, WI while Brookfield, WI is in Brookfield, WI — both in the same state. On home prices, Appleton, WI is the more affordable option at $182,600 median — $185,700 less than Brookfield, WI's $368,300. WYLT rates Appleton, WI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Brookfield, WI as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Brookfield, WI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Appleton, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Brookfield, WI has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Appleton, WI has Low flood risk and Brookfield, WI has Low flood risk.
Appleton, WI is the more walkable neighborhood. Appleton, WI scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Brookfield, WI's 2/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Brookfield, WI has the higher school rating — Appleton, WI rates 7/10 and Brookfield, WI rates 7.1/10.
| Category | Appleton, WI | Brookfield, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $183K ✓ Lower price | $368K |
| Median Rent | $910 ✓ Lower rent | $2K |
| Median Income | $64K | $121K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 ✓ More walkable | 2/100 |
| Transit Score | 37/100 ✓ Better transit | 1/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 1/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | Families with childrenSeniors looking for a quiet townRemote workers needing affordable housing | familiessuburbanitespeople who value good schools |
Bottom line
If you're prioritizing affordability and have a family with kids, Appleton might be a slightly more accessible option, despite its more suburban feel. For those willing and able to invest in a pricier home, Brookfield offers a more upscale suburban experience with equally solid schools. Ultimately, the choice comes down to individual priorities, with Brookfield suiting those seeking a more affluent, low-crime area and Appleton appealing to more budget-conscious families.
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