Wausau, WI

Wausau, WI

Updated May 1, 2026 · Would You Live There?

Think twice

Verdict

$174K

Median Price

Walk Score

5.8/10

Schools

60 min

to Appleton

Score Breakdown

FWalkability
0/100
D+Commute
55/100
D+Safety
55/100
C-Schools
58/100
B+Quietness
80/100
AAffordability
92/100
WYLT Score57/100

Our Take

Wausau offers solid schooling and a low cost of living, but the lack of walkability and public transit makes it a car‑centric place. It’s quiet and family‑friendly, yet residents will need a car for most errands and nightlife options are limited.

Map

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The Good

  • High‑rated charter and elementary schools
  • Median home price is well below national average
  • Flood risk is low
  • Community feels tight‑knit

Real Talk

  • !Walk score of 0 means almost everything requires a car
  • !Public transit options are virtually non‑existent
  • !Nightlife and dining are limited to a handful of spots
  • !Median income just meets the cost of living, leaving little disposable income
  • $Higher auto insurance and fuel costs due to car dependence
  • $Utilities can be high in the winter months
  • $Property taxes are moderate and can add to the cost of owning a home

Best For

familiesretireesremote workerscollege students

Risk Snapshot

Flood riskLow
Violent crimeModerate
Property crimeModerate
Air qualityGood
Price volatilityLow

Crime & Safety

Wausau, 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

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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