Let the numbers do the talking.
Eau Claire, WI vs Racine, WI
Eau Claire, WI vs Racine, WI: What the data shows
Eau Claire, WI is in Eau Claire, WI while Racine, WI is in Racine, WI — both in the same state. On home prices, Racine, WI is the more affordable option at $155,900 median — $86,700 less than Eau Claire, WI's $242,600. WYLT rates Eau Claire, WI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Racine, WI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Eau Claire, WI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Eau Claire, WI has Low violent crime and Moderate property crime. Racine, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Eau Claire, WI has Low flood risk and Racine, WI has Low flood risk.
Racine, WI is the more walkable neighborhood. Eau Claire, WI scores 3/100 (car-dependent) versus Racine, WI's 6/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Racine, WI has the higher school rating — Eau Claire, WI rates 7/10 and Racine, WI rates 7.3/10.
| Category | Eau Claire, WI | Racine, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $243K | $156K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $909 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $69K ✓ Higher income | $56K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 3/100 | 6/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 2/100 | 41/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | 2/100 | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | N/A | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | B ✓ Safer | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Low ✓ Lower risk | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 | 7.3/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesYoung ProfessionalsStudents | FamiliesBudget buyersRetirees |
Bottom line
For young professionals and those prioritizing decent schools and walkability, Eau Claire is the better choice. However, for families on a tight budget and willing to rely on their cars, Racine might offer better value in terms of affordability. Ultimately, the decision comes down to individual priorities, but Eau Claire's trade-offs might be more tolerable for many buyers.
Share this comparison