Let the numbers do the talking.
Appleton, WI vs Oshkosh, WI
Appleton, WI vs Oshkosh, WI: What the data shows
Appleton, WI is in Appleton, WI while Oshkosh, WI is in Oshkosh, WI — both in the same state. On home prices, Oshkosh, WI is the more affordable option at $151,700 median — $30,900 less than Appleton, WI's $182,600. WYLT rates Appleton, WI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Oshkosh, 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. Oshkosh, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Appleton, WI has Low flood risk and Oshkosh, WI has Low flood risk.
Oshkosh, WI is the more walkable neighborhood. Appleton, WI scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Oshkosh, WI's 52/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Appleton, WI has the higher school rating — Appleton, WI rates 7/10 and Oshkosh, WI rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Appleton, WI | Oshkosh, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $183K | $152K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $910 | $870 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $64K ✓ Higher income | $58K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 | 52/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 37/100 ✓ Better transit | 2/100 |
| Bike Score | N/A | 51/100 ✓ 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 | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.9/10 |
| Best for | Families with childrenSeniors looking for a quiet townRemote workers needing affordable housing | FamiliesOutdoor enthusiastsRemote workers |
Bottom line
If you prioritize a low cost of living and want to be close to Milwaukee or Madison, Appleton is the better choice. However, if you're looking for a more walkable downtown and a shorter commute, Oshkosh's slightly lower home prices and slightly higher Walk Score make it more suitable for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or remote workers. Ultimately, both cities are good options for different preferences.
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