Let the numbers do the talking.
Appleton, WI vs Franklin, WI
Appleton, WI vs Franklin, WI: What the data shows
Appleton, WI is in Appleton, WI while Franklin, WI is in Franklin, WI — both in the same state. On home prices, Appleton, WI is the more affordable option at $182,600 median — $150,500 less than Franklin, WI's $333,100. WYLT rates Appleton, WI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Franklin, WI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Franklin, WI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Appleton, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Franklin, WI has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Appleton, WI has Low flood risk and Franklin, WI has Low flood risk.
Appleton, WI is the more walkable neighborhood. Appleton, WI scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Franklin, WI's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, both neighborhoods have the same school rating — Appleton, WI rates 7/10 and Franklin, WI rates 7/10.
| Category | Appleton, WI | Franklin, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $183K ✓ Lower price | $333K |
| Median Rent | $910 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $64K | $103K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 37/100 ✓ Better transit | 1/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 1/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | 35 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | B ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Best for | Families with childrenSeniors looking for a quiet townRemote workers needing affordable housing | Families looking for good schoolsRemote workers who can commuteFirst‑time homebuyers with moderate budgets |
Bottom line
For families prioritizing schools and a quiet atmosphere, Franklin, WI might be a slightly better choice overall due to its higher school ratings. However, if you're looking for a more affordable option with a smaller city atmosphere and a similar commute time to the Milwaukee area, Appleton could be the better fit. Both neighborhoods share similar pros and cons, so it ultimately comes down to individual preferences and priorities.
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