Let the numbers do the talking.
Sun Prairie, WI vs Waukesha, WI
Sun Prairie, WI vs Waukesha, WI: What the data shows
Sun Prairie, WI is in Sun Prairie, 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 — $63,200 less than Sun Prairie, WI's $320,000. WYLT rates Sun Prairie, 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.
Sun Prairie, WI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Sun Prairie, WI has Low violent crime and Low property crime. Waukesha, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Sun Prairie, WI has Low flood risk and Waukesha, WI has Low flood risk.
Sun Prairie, WI is the more walkable neighborhood. Sun Prairie, WI scores 52/100 (somewhat walkable) versus Waukesha, WI's 5/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Sun Prairie, WI has the higher school rating — Sun Prairie, WI rates 7.6/10 and Waukesha, WI rates 6.8/10.
| Category | Sun Prairie, WI | Waukesha, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $320K | $257K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $100K ✓ Higher income | $70K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 52/100 ✓ More walkable | 5/100 |
| Transit Score | 20/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 40/100 ✓ More bikeable | 18/100 |
| Commute | N/A | 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 | 7.6/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.8/10 |
| Best for | Families with young childrenFirst-time homebuyers looking for a safe communityIndividuals who value a suburban lifestyle with easy access to nature | Families looking for solid schoolsRemote workers who can handle a car commuteMid‑income earners seeking affordability |
Bottom line
Based on the data, families with young children will likely thrive in Sun Prairie, which offers top-rated schools, low crime rates, and a safe community, making it a clear winner for families. However, Waukesha might be a better fit for remote workers who can handle the commute and don't prioritize walkability, as it offers lower housing costs and decent schools. Ultimately, Sun Prairie is the more desirable option for most people.
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