Appleton, WI
Why You’ll Love Living in Appleton, Wisconsin
Appleton, Wisconsin, situated in the core of the Fox Cities region, is known for its standout quality of life, bountiful career opportunities, thriving entrepreneurial spirit, and vibrant local dining and shopping scene. For arts and culture lovers, the Mile of Music Festival and the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center are must-visits. The family will enjoy the mammoth Badger Sports Park, which spans 5.5 acres and offers indoor and outdoor all-season fun. Appleton also provides year-round opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, ranging from beautiful parks, lake activities and stunning golf courses in the warm months to ice rinks and places to go snowmobiling and skiing in the winter. It’s also easy to quickly get to anywhere from Appleton, thanks to its international airport – the third largest in Wisconsin.
Thinking of moving to Appleton, WI? Keep scrolling to find all the details about living in Appleton, including quick facts such as the population, median home value and property taxes. Plus, learn more about the cost of living and quality of life in Appleton, from the economy and job opportunities to weather, outdoor activities and things to do, including local restaurants and points of interest.
What Makes Appleton, WI, a Best Place to Live in 2024
Known as the cultural hub of the Fox Cities, Appleton, WI, ranks as one of the best cities to live in the U.S. for plenty of reasons, starting with affordable housing, safe neighborhoods and a low cost of living. And if that’s not enough to sway you, residents have access to high-quality health care with three major hospital systems, a thriving arts and culture scene (think music festivals, performing arts and live music), and burgeoning dining and entertainment offerings.
Appleton attracts both families and young professionals. It is situated overlooking the Fox River, just north of Lake Winnebago and close to Green Bay. While the winters are snowy, that doesn’t stop anyone from enjoying all of the seasons. And as it warms up, there are trails through the woods, parks, pools and fields that appeal to everyone.
When it’s time to get down to business, key sectors include food processing, retail and heavy transport manufacturing for industries such as aerospace, emergency services and the military. And, of course, the Fox Cities have a long history in paper making and printing.
The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center entertains residents with a roster of Broadway productions, concerts and workshops. The Trout Museum of Art showcases a variety of art on its three floors of galleries. And not to be missed is the History Museum at the Castle, where you can discover fun facts about Appleton’s famed resident, Harry Houdini.
Appleton, WI Quality of Life LivScore
Appleton, WI Top Categories
Housing & Cost of Living
Safety
Amenities
Appleton ranks highest for housing, safety and amenities.
Weather and Outdoor Activities in Appleton, WI
Expect all four seasons in Appleton, with warm summers and cold winters. The average highs and lows are 79°F and 59°F (summer) and 28°F and 12°F (winter).
The average annual snowfall in Appleton is 44 inches, with January being the snowiest month.
The average annual rainfall in Appleton is 31 inches.
Appleton averages 188 sunny days a year.
Stroll through the Butterfly Gardens of Wisconsin, where butterflies flit about. Visitors can admire a variety of native butterfly species and learn how they differ at each phase of their life cycles.
Things To Do in Appleton, WI
Volunteers at The Gordon Bubolz Nature Preserve have taught visitors about environmental ethics, appreciation of nature and conservation for 45 years. Visitors not attending one of the several education programs can walk, hike, bike or cross-country ski through the 775-acre preserve.
The Building For Kids Children’s Museum has all kinds of interactive exhibits, including a kids’ town with a grocery store, doll hospital and semi-truck depot.
The famous magician Harry Houdini was raised in Appleton, where his father became the city’s first rabbi.
For more than 40 years, The Book Store, a funky, independently owned shop, has been supplying more than 80,000 new and used books to the bookworms of Wisconsin.
Spats is a popular place to go to dinner in Appleton. It is known for its diverse menu, which includes everything from steak and seafood to innovative cocktails. The casual, fun atmosphere makes Spats an excellent spot for dinner with family or friends.
The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center is a major venue in the area for anyone hoping to catch a Broadway show or concert in downtown Appleton.
Copper Rock Coffee Company is a local favorite for coffee enthusiasts. It has a cozy atmosphere, an expansive coffee menu, tasty pastries, a solid collection of board games and live music.
The Local and State Economy in Appleton, WI
Manufacturing, health care and retail are among the largest industries in Appleton. Some major employers include ThedaCare, Thrivent Financial and Miller Electric.
In 2024, the sales tax rate in Appleton is 5.5%.
Yes, Wisconsin has a state income tax.
Appleton residents are in good health, and top providers include ThedaCare Regional Medical Center-Appleton and the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin-Fox Valley in nearby Neenah.
There are several colleges and universities in Appleton, including Lawrence University.
Appleton, Wisconsin Businesses & Brands to Know
Weather in Appleton, WI
Average Temperatures
54 high / 37 low
Average Annual Rainfall
31 in
Average Annual Snowfall
44 in
Quick Facts about Appleton, Wisconsin
- Median Home Value
- $198,067
- Median Property Tax
- $2,827
- Total Population
- 75,761
- Average Commute
- 16 min
- Median Household Income
- $74,099
- Median Monthly Rent
- $709
Map of Appleton, WI
Experiences & Adventures in Appleton, WI
A Season for Every Adventure: Exploring Year-Round Fun in Appleton, Wisconsin
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