Let the numbers do the talking.
Brookfield, WI vs Waukesha, WI
Brookfield, WI vs Waukesha, WI: What the data shows
Brookfield, WI is in Brookfield, WI while Waukesha, WI is in Waukesha, WI — both in the same state. On home prices, Waukesha, WI is the more affordable option at $256,800 median — $111,500 less than Brookfield, WI's $368,300. WYLT rates Brookfield, WI as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Waukesha, WI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Brookfield, WI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Brookfield, WI has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Waukesha, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Brookfield, WI has Low flood risk and Waukesha, WI has Low flood risk.
Waukesha, WI is the more walkable neighborhood. Brookfield, WI scores 2/100 (car-dependent) versus Waukesha, WI's 5/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Brookfield, WI has the higher school rating — Brookfield, WI rates 7.1/10 and Waukesha, WI rates 6.8/10.
| Category | Brookfield, WI | Waukesha, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $368K | $257K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $121K ✓ Higher income | $70K |
| Price Volatility | Low ✓ More stable | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 2/100 | 5/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 1/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 1/100 | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 30 min ✓ Shorter commute | 35 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | A ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.8/10 |
| Best for | familiessuburbanitespeople who value good schools | Families looking for solid schoolsRemote workers who can handle a car commuteMid‑income earners seeking affordability |
Bottom line
For families who value good schools and are willing to drive, Brookfield is the better choice. However, for those prioritizing affordability or a lower flood risk, Waukesha is a reasonable alternative despite its limited walkability. Ultimately, if you're willing to trade off some convenience for quality schools, Brookfield might be the better fit.
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