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Overview
Long, cold winters and cheese are both common pieces of Wisconsin living. As the leading producer of cheese and dairy products, Wisconsin produces some of the tastiest cheese you’ll ever taste. Bordering Lake Superior in the north and Lake Michigan to the east, outdoor adventuring is part of daily life for many residents. Beautiful shorelines are part of the glory of living in this part of the midwest, but the Wisconsin River flowing through the middle of the state also produces tremendous awe.
Milwaukee is the largest city in the state of Wisconsin. Milwaukee offers an abundance of attractions including the Harley-Davidson Museum, the Milwaukee County Zoo, the Children’s Discovery Museum, and plenty of culture and entertainment. This includes over 200 acres of fairgrounds used for the annual state fair that attracts visitors from across the state.
Madison, the state capital, is home to the University of Wisconsin. A total of 23 U of W campuses exist throughout the state. College football is big news in Madison and the state but it’s the professional NFL team – the Green Bay Packers – that receive the most support. The Packers play on Lambeau Field in Green Bay.
Buying a Home in Wisconsin
If you are not quite ready to buy a home but love the idea of homeownership, many programs help get your foot in the door. Contact the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority for information about various available programs. Each program includes its qualifications and oftentimes is limited to first-time homebuyers only. The Downpayment Plus Consumer Center also helps first-time buyers with up to $5,000 in down payment assistance.
Most of the more than 50,000 homes for sale in the state list for less than $110,000, but sell for approximately $150,000. In some areas, home prices are even more expensive, especially in the exclusive areas.
Popular Neighborhoods in Wisconsin
Madison, the capital city, has many homes for sale with the best selection situated toward the edge of town. Fitchburg neighbors Madison and has some of the best home prices and schools in the state. Check out the Middleton Junction neighborhood for exclusive homes priced well over $300,000. Schools in this area are also spectacular in comparison to other educational facilities elsewhere in the state.
Those who enjoy small-town life will love Evansville. The area is home to families with kids of all ages, crime rates are low, and everyone knows everyone here. There’s tons of outdoor recreation available as well. The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is located nearby and has great homes for sale. It is one of the best areas in the state for avid outdoorsmen.
Buying vs. Rent to Own Homes
Rent to own homes give buyers an alternative to traditional homebuying. It’s great for buyers who may not have a down payment put together or buyers who do not think they’ll get approved for a mortgage loan. As a rent-to-own buyer, you start as a renter and have up to three years to buy the home. This gives buyers time to save money for a down payment, build up their credit, and otherwise make preparations for this new experience in their lives.
You can move into the home right away, limiting challenges for buyers who do not fit the standard homebuying criteria. When you are ready to make the home yours, proceed with the purchase. Buying rent to own properties is that simple.
Cost of Living in Wisconsin
The cost of living in Wisconsin is lower than the national average. Housing prices are up to 10% lower than the national average, although utilities and transportation costs are slightly above the national average. Some homes sell substantially more than the national average while others sell for much less. You can always find something that fits your budget and needs if you are a smart shopper.
Summary
Wisconsin has amazing cheese that you will enjoy eating a little more once you buy a home. The beautiful state offers a reasonable cost of living and has an amazing landscape for everyone. Schools and education in Wisconsin are above average and in larger cities, finding cultural activities happens easily. The family-friendly state is home to the University of Wisconsin and has amazing state fairgrounds.
Reported Annual Crime In Wisconsin
| Statistic | Wisconsin | National |
|---|---|---|
| Violent crime | 5,796 | 370,388 |
| Murder | 205 | 19,131 |
| Rape | 1,740 | 86,726 |
| Robbery | 1,103 | 152,431 |
| Assault | 4,414 | 277,038 |
| Property crime | 32,917 | 1,216,038 |
| Burglary | 7,555 | 468,957 |
| Theft | 32,052 | 1,063,593 |
| Motor vehicle | 4,735 | 301,970 |
| Arson | 486 | 32,898 |