Wisconsin offers residents stunning natural beauty and a culture of celebrating innovation and tradition. From small towns like Janesville to bustling cities like Milwaukee, this state has a unique mix of rural and urban settings that cater to different needs. While these are all great reasons to move to the Badger State, below are the fastest-growing towns in Wisconsin you should consider when relocating.
1. Madison
- Between 2010 and 2020, the population of Madison increased by over 40,604
- There was a 17.7% population increase between 2010 to 2020
- Population in 2020: 269,840
- Second largest city in Wisconsin
The reason for Madison’s exponential growth rate is the University of Wisconsin–Madison, which is the largest employer in the state. However, other educational institutions also have a massive impact on the economy, demographics of the town, and culture. Madison has held the title of fastest-growing town in Wisconsin since 2021.
2. Sun Prairie
- Between 2010 and 2020, the population of Sun Prairie increased by over 8,159
- There was a 29.3% population increase between 2010 to 2020
- Population in 2020: 35,967
- 24th largest city in Wisconsin
Sun Prairie is located just 10 miles from Madison. As a result, residents can benefit from its proximity to the city while maintaining its small-town charm. Therefore, many residents of this charming town work in Madison but choose to live in Sun Prairie due to its lower cost of living and smaller population.
3. Fitchburg
- Between 2010 and 2020, the population of Fitchburg increased by over 5,143
- There was a 21.0% population increase between 2010 to 2020
- Population in 2020: 29,609
- 27th largest city in Wisconsin
Fitchburg lies in Dane County and has a fast-growing population. In fact, its growth rate is eight times the statewide rate and two times the county’s rate. One of the reasons this town has such a fast growth rate is its ideal location. Fitchburg lies between rural farmlands and Madison. It is near the State Capitol, UW-Madison, and Dane County Regional Airport. As a result, this town offers the best of rural and city living.
4. Windsor
- Between 2010 and 2020, the population of Windsor increased by over 4,881
- There was a 126.0% population increase between 2010 to 2020
- Population in 2020: 8,754
- 103rd largest city in Wisconsin
The current population of Windsor, Wisconsin is 9,063 residents. Since 2020, it’s grown at a rate of 2.33%. The average household income for working citizens of Windsor is $122,170. Reasons why it’s an attractive place to live are that it features a lower cost of living, low crime, good education, and a relatively low poverty rate.
The town’s close proximity to Maple River and Lake Winnebago offers opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and even ice skating in the winter months. Farmer’s markets and craft fairs are some of the attractive community events in Windsor, making it a spot to consider if you are relocating to that area of the state.
5. Middleton
- Between 2010 and 2020, the population of Middleton increased by over 4,663
- There was a 27.2% population increase between 2010 to 2020
- Population in 2020: 21,827
- 37th largest city in Wisconsin
Middleton is one of the fastest-growing towns in Wisconsin because of its luxurious real estate, beautiful parks and landscapes, and art scene. This town’s eastern edge borders Lake Mendota, so residents have an incredible waterfront view and access to many fun recreational activities. Additionally, people like Middleton because of its location. It is only 6.4 miles from Madison and 92 miles from Milwaukee.
6. Eau Claire
- Between 2010 and 2020, the population of Eau Claire increased by over 4,288
- There was a 6.6% population increase between 2010 to 2020
- Population in 2020: 69,421
- 8th largest city in Wisconsin
People are attracted to Eau Claire because of the local university, art community, and healthcare opportunities. Furthermore, this fast-growing town in Wisconsin has the largest community in west-central and northwestern Wisconsin. As a result, many people transitioning from rural areas to bigger towns/cities usually look at Eau Claire as their first location. Additionally, it is close to the Twin Cities, so people have easy access to larger cities but a lower cost of living in Eau Claire.
7. Hobart
- Between 2010 and 2020, the population of Hobart increased by over 4,218
- There was a 70.4% population increase between 2010 to 2020
- Population in 2020: 10,211
- 90th largest city in Wisconsin
Hobart is one of the fastest-growing towns in Wisconsin. It owes its increase in popularity to low taxes and safe neighborhoods, as it has its own fire department and police force. Furthermore, the community is very welcoming, so many young families have moved to the area. Lastly, but probably most importantly, people are moving to Hobart due to its surge in development, creating numerous jobs.
8. Verona
- Between 2010 and 2020, the population of Verona increased by over 3,997
- There was a 39.8% population increase between 2010 to 2020
- Population in 2020: 14,030
- 64th largest city in Wisconsin
Verona is located in south-central Wisconsin, and the reason for its exponential growth is its proximity to the University of Wisconsin-Madison and downtown Madison. Furthermore, this town has immediate access to the I 39-90 corridor and US Hwy 18/151. Additionally, Verona has major private sector employers, like:
- Carnes Company
- Epic Systems Corporation (medical software developer)
- Latitude Corporation (Metals machining and fabrication company)
- HVAC manufacturer
9. Green Bay
- Between 2010 and 2020, the population of Green Bay increased by over 3,435
- There was a 3.3% population increase between 2010 to 2020
- Population in 2020: 107,395
- 3rd largest city in Wisconsin
There are many reasons why Green Bay is one of the fastest-growing cities in Wisconsin. For example, this town is very appealing to people who love the outdoors because of the Fox River and Lake Michigan. In addition, Green Bay has a large art community. It also has a small-town feel but the luxuries of a big city. Some people even move to this town because of the Green Bay Packers, which is a huge part of this community’s identity.
10. Oak Creek
- Between 2010 and 2020, the population of Oak Creek increased by over 3,428
- There was a 10.4% population increase between 2010 to 2020
- Population in 2020: 36,497
- 23rd largest city in Wisconsin
Many people move to Oak Creek because of the rural and suburban atmosphere. However, they still enjoy the urban services Mailwakee offers, as it is close by. As a result, this town continues to be one of the fastest-growing towns in Wisconsin.
Summary of the 10 Fastest Growing Towns in Wisconsin Everyone Is Talking About
Town | Population in 2020 | Population % Increase 2010 to 2020 | |
---|---|---|---|
1. | Madison | 269,840 | 17.7% |
2. | Sun Prairie | 35,967 | 29.3% |
3. | Fitchburg | 29,609 | 21.0% |
4. | Windsor | 8,754 | 126.0% |
5. | Middleton | 21,827 | 27.2% |
6. | Eau Claire | 69,421 | 6.6% |
7. | Hobart | 10,211 | 70.4% |
8. | Verona | 14,030 | 39.8% |
9. | Green Bay | 107,395 | 3.3% |
10. | Oak Creek | 36,497 | 10.4% |
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