What are the hidden costs of living in Waukesha?

Higher property taxes than many nearby towns Potential HOA fees in newer developments Higher insurance costs for vehicles due to traffic

What is the median home price in Waukesha?

The median home price in Waukesha is approximately $256,800.

Is Waukesha walkable?

Waukesha has a Walk Score of 5 out of 100. Most errands require a car.

Waukesha, WI

Updated May 1, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Think twice

Verdict

$257K

Median Price

5/100

Walk Score

6.8/10

Schools

35 min

to Milwaukee

Score Breakdown

FWalkability

5/100

D+Safety

55/100

CQuietness

60/100

C+Schools

68/100

B-Commute

70/100

BAffordability

78/100

WYLT Score56/100

Our Take

Waukesha offers decent school quality and low flood risk, but it’s a car‑dependent suburb with a very low walk score and limited public transit. The median home price is reasonable for the median income, yet the area may feel a bit too spread out for those who value urban convenience.

Map

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The Good

✓Good overall school ratings
✓Median home price matches median income
✓Low flood risk
✓Reasonable median rent

Real Talk

!Very low walkability – you’ll need a car for most errands
!Limited public transit options
!Commute to Milwaukee or other job centers can be lengthy
!Crime level tends to be higher than the national average for a suburb
$Higher property taxes than many nearby towns
$Potential HOA fees in newer developments
$Higher insurance costs for vehicles due to traffic

Best For

Families looking for solid schoolsRemote workers who can handle a car commuteMid‑income earners seeking affordabilityPeople who prioritize low flood risk

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow

Violent crimeModerate

Property crimeModerate

Air qualityGood

Price volatilityModerate

Crime & Safety

Waukesha, WI

D+

Safety grade

Safety score55 / 100

High riskVery safe

⚠️Violent Crime

Moderate

3.9incidents / 1,000 residents / yr

0Natl avg (3.7)11+

5% higher than the national average

🔒Property Crime

Moderate

19.8incidents / 1,000 residents / yr

0Natl avg (19.5)59+

2% higher than the national average

Verify with real-time data

AreaVibes crime →City-Data stats →NeighborhoodScout →

Rates are estimated from neighborhood characteristics using national FBI baselines. Actual figures vary by block — always verify with local sources before making decisions.

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From Residents

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