Let the numbers do the talking.
Appleton, WI vs Kenosha, WI
Appleton, WI vs Kenosha, WI: What the data shows
Appleton, WI is in Appleton, WI while Kenosha, WI is in Kenosha, WI — both in the same state. On home prices, Kenosha, WI is the more affordable option at $179,100 median — $3,500 less than Appleton, WI's $182,600. WYLT rates Appleton, WI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Kenosha, WI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Appleton, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Kenosha, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Appleton, WI has Low flood risk and Kenosha, WI has Low flood risk.
Kenosha, WI is the more walkable neighborhood. Appleton, WI scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Kenosha, WI's 14/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Appleton, WI has the higher school rating — Appleton, WI rates 7/10 and Kenosha, WI rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Appleton, WI | Kenosha, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $183K | $179K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $910 ✓ Lower rent | $977 |
| Median Income | $64K ✓ Higher income | $55K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 | 14/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 37/100 ✓ Better transit | 3/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 2/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.9/10 |
| Best for | Families with childrenSeniors looking for a quiet townRemote workers needing affordable housing | First‑time home buyersFamilies with childrenRemote workers who need a quiet environment |
Bottom line
For families with children, both neighborhoods are options, but Appleton's slightly better schools and quieter town may make it a better fit. For commuters to the Chicago area, Kenosha's shorter commute time to Chicago may outweigh Appleton's longer drive to Milwaukee. Overall, Appleton is better suited for families seeking a quiet, relatively affordable town with decent schools, while Kenosha is ideal for those prioritizing a Chicago commute and a relatively affordable home price.
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