Let the numbers do the talking.
Appleton, WI vs Eau Claire, WI
Appleton, WI vs Eau Claire, WI: What the data shows
Appleton, WI is in Appleton, WI while Eau Claire, WI is in Eau Claire, WI — both in the same state. On home prices, Appleton, WI is the more affordable option at $182,600 median — $60,000 less than Eau Claire, WI's $242,600. WYLT rates Appleton, WI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Eau Claire, WI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Eau Claire, WI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Appleton, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Eau Claire, WI has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Appleton, WI has Low flood risk and Eau Claire, WI has Low flood risk.
Appleton, WI is the more walkable neighborhood. Appleton, WI scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Eau Claire, WI's 3/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Appleton, WI rates 7/10 and Eau Claire, WI rates 7/10.
| Category | Appleton, WI | Eau Claire, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $183K ✓ Lower price | $243K |
| Median Rent | $910 | $909 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $64K | $69K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 ✓ More walkable | 3/100 |
| Transit Score | 37/100 ✓ Better transit | 2/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 2/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Best for | Families with childrenSeniors looking for a quiet townRemote workers needing affordable housing | FamiliesYoung ProfessionalsStudents |
Bottom line
For families with children, Appleton's solid schools and lower cost of living make it a slightly better choice. However, for young professionals or first-time homebuyers, Eau Claire's modest price point and quiet vibe may be a better fit, especially if you don't mind the trade-offs on walkability and public transit. If you're looking for an urban vibe, both areas fall short but Eau Claire might be a better option due to its slightly lower median home price.
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