Let the numbers do the talking.
Fond du Lac, WI vs Milwaukee, WI
Fond du Lac, WI vs Milwaukee, WI: What the data shows
Fond du Lac, WI is in Fond du Lac, WI while Milwaukee, WI is in Milwaukee, WI — both in the same state. On home prices, Fond du Lac, WI is the more affordable option at $154,800 median — $132,300 less than Milwaukee, WI's $287,100. WYLT rates Fond du Lac, WI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Milwaukee, WI as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Fond du Lac, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Milwaukee, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Fond du Lac, WI has Low flood risk and Milwaukee, WI has Low flood risk.
Milwaukee, WI is the more walkable neighborhood. Fond du Lac, WI scores 10/100 (car-dependent) versus Milwaukee, WI's 68/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Milwaukee, WI has the higher school rating — Fond du Lac, WI rates 5.3/10 and Milwaukee, WI rates 6.9/10.
| Category | Fond du Lac, WI | Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $155K ✓ Lower price | $287K |
| Median Rent | $848 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $60K | $63K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 10/100 | 68/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 62/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 57/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | N/A | 35 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 5.3/10 | 6.9/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | First‑time homebuyers looking for affordabilityFamilies wanting decent schoolsPeople who prefer a car‑centric lifestyle | Young professionalsStudentsUrban renters |
Bottom line
For first-time homebuyers on a tight budget or families looking for affordable housing and decent schools, Fond du Lac might be a better choice due to its relatively lower cost of living and car-centric lifestyle. However, for young professionals and those prioritizing urban amenities, Milwaukee's 53202 area offers more affordable options with public transit, despite its high crime rate. Ultimately, consider Fond du Lac if you value quiet and affordability, or Milwaukee if you prefer the hustle and bustle of city living.
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