Let the numbers do the talking.
Appleton, WI vs Milwaukee, WI
Appleton, WI vs Milwaukee, WI: What the data shows
Appleton, WI is in Appleton, WI while Milwaukee, WI is in Milwaukee, WI — both in the same state. On home prices, Appleton, WI is the more affordable option at $182,600 median — $104,500 less than Milwaukee, WI's $287,100. WYLT rates Appleton, WI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Milwaukee, WI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Appleton, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Milwaukee, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Appleton, WI has Low flood risk and Milwaukee, WI has Low flood risk.
Milwaukee, WI is the more walkable neighborhood. Appleton, WI scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Milwaukee, WI's 68/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Appleton, WI has the higher school rating — Appleton, WI rates 7/10 and Milwaukee, WI rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Appleton, WI | Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $183K ✓ Lower price | $287K |
| Median Rent | $910 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $64K ✓ Higher income | $63K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 | 68/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 37/100 | 62/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 57/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | 35 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 | Young professionalsStudentsUrban renters |
Bottom line
For a family with children or seniors looking for a quiet town, Appleton's lower crime rates, affordable housing, and good schools make it a more suitable choice. However, if you're a young professional or student seeking an urban lifestyle, the proximity to Milwaukee's downtown and decent transit options of 53202, despite its crime issues, might be worth considering.
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