City Profile
Wausau, Wisconsin
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Wausau, Wisconsin, situated along the Wisconsin River in Marathon County, is a historic community celebrated for its rich logging heritage and reputation as the "Granite City." Nestled amidst scenic rolling hills and central Wisconsin forests, the city combines a welcoming small-town atmosphere with robust regional amenities. People are increasingly drawn to Wausau for its exceptional blend of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and a stable, family-friendly environment.
Wisconsin, located in the Upper Midwest, is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including Great Lakes shorelines, dense forests, and rolling hills, fostering a strong connection to outdoor recreation and a friendly, community-oriented lifestyle. The state's economy is robust, driven primarily by manufacturing, agriculture (especially dairy, earning it the nickname "America's Dairyland"), and a significant tourism sector. Living in Wisconsin generally offers a lower cost of living compared to the national average, with housing and groceries often more affordable. The climate features four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters, providing opportunities for a variety of seasonal activities.
How this 64/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 78 / 100 | 78.0 | 30% | 23.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 92.0 | 53.8 | 25% | 13.4 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $58,400 Income needed to live here: $48,000 Unemployment rate: 3.2% | 68.5 | 20% | 13.7 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 0.5% Job growth rate: 1.4% | 42.8 | 15% | 6.4 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 69 / 100 | 69.0 | 10% | 6.9 |
| Overall score | 63.9 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 2 (reasoned) (q=54, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
16 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
Featured Events
Happening in Wausau
Featured and sponsored events in Wausau.
Local Directory
Businesses in Wausau
Featured local businesses in Wausau.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Wausau remains comfortably below the national average, making it an attractive destination for families, remote workers, and retirees seeking financial breathing room. Housing costs, utilities, and grocery prices all track lower than typical U.S. urban centers, though recent years have seen moderate upward pressure on real estate prices. This favorable affordability index allows residents to enjoy a high quality of life without the severe financial strain experienced in larger metropolitan areas.
Income
Salary Insights
Wausau boasts a resilient and diversified local economy anchored heavily by healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and financial services. Major employers like Aspirus Health and Greenheck Fan Corporation provide steady employment and drive regional economic stability. While traditional manufacturing remains a core pillar, the area is gradually expanding its professional services and supporting a growing network of local entrepreneurs and remote professionals.
The average salary in Wausau is $56,000 per year. You would need approximately $48,000 to live comfortably.
Employment
Top Industries
Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Wausau is primarily a car-dependent community where most daily errands and commutes require a personal vehicle. While the city features limited public bus transit services and some walkable pockets in the downtown core, walking and biking infrastructure is less practical for long-distance travel. Traffic congestion is virtually nonexistent compared to major metro areas, ensuring relatively stress-free daily commutes.
At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Drawbacks
Head to Head
Compare Wausau
Community Q&A
Questions about Wausau
What people ask about living in and moving to Wausau, Wisconsin.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
City Guide
Explore Wausau
Free Quotes
Get quotes from local pros in Wausau
Tell us what you need and we’ll pass it to companies that serve your area. It’s free, and there’s no obligation.
Compare Wausau with any city
See how it stacks up on cost, income, and quality of life.
Start Comparing