Exploring Affordable Living: Top 5 Wisconsin Cities for Middle-Class Families

Families looking for a reasonable cost of living might find their ideal homes in the heartland of America. A recent study by GOBankingRates identifies 25 cities, primarily in the Midwest, that promise comfortable lifestyles for middle-class families.

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The analysis by GOBankingRates evaluated cities suitable for middle-class families by using data from the U.S. Census American Community Survey, Sperling’s BestPlaces, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Each city’s livability score comes from AreaVibes, providing a comprehensive assessment of what these cities offer.

What follows are the five Wisconsin cities recognized as the most livable places for middle-class families.

1. Whitefish Bay

• Population: 14,804
• Median Income: $142,356
• Annual Cost of Living: $74,862
• Livability Score: 93

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2. Shorewood

• Population: 13,707
• Median Income: $87,161
• Annual Cost of Living: $68,479
• Livability Score: 92

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3. Middleton

• Population: 21,864
• Median Income: $87,333
• Annual Cost of Living: $75,762
• Livability Score: 90

4. Verona

• Population: 14,040
• Median Income: $109,960
• Annual Cost of Living: $74,699
• Livability Score: 90

5. Wausau

• Population: 39,906
• Median Income: $59,259
• Annual Cost of Living: $45,071
• Livability Score: 90

Note: The images included are for illustrative purposes and may not exactly correspond to the specific locations discussed.

In conducting this study, GOBankingRates assessed various U.S. cities to determine the most livable locations for middle-class families. The middle-class income range was defined based on the median national income found in the American Community Survey. Cities not meeting the median income criteria for the middle class were excluded. Livability scores were taken from AreaVibes, removing any locations below a score of 90. Analysis included factors like population demographics and living expenses across various categories, with data collected and current as of October 23, 2024.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Wisconsin Cities That Are Among America’s Most Livable Areas for Middle-Class Families

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