Money says La Crosse, Wisconsin, is one of the top 50 best places to live in the U.S.—with a mix of outdoor fun, arts, and affordable living.

Money Names This Western Wisconsin City Is One of the 50 Best Places To Live in the U.S.

Money says La Crosse, Wisconsin, is one of the top 50 best places to live in the U.S.—with a mix of outdoor fun, arts, and affordable living. 🌐 #News #LaCrosseWI #Wisconsin #RealEstate

LA CROSSE, WILa Crosse, Wisconsin, might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of moving to the state, but according to Money, it’s one of the 50 best places to live in the country. This western Wisconsin city, situated along the Mississippi River, is recognized for its unique mix of outdoor recreation, a strong arts scene, and affordable living. Our Winona newsroom is just upriver from La Crosse and we have to agree – it’s a pretty special city!

A Holistic Approach to Choosing the Best Cities

Money has been compiling its list of the best places to live for over 30 years, this year taking a broader approach. The list doesn’t just focus on affordability, job market health, and school quality, but also looks at the spirit of a city.

Money looked for places where citizens are engaged and local officials are receptive to the needs of the community. La Crosse stood out as the only Wisconsin city to make the top 50 this year, highlighting its charm as a smaller city offering a big-city lifestyle.

Why La Crosse Stands Out

La Crosse’s blend of outdoor activities, cultural offerings, and solid economy are what make it a desirable place to live. Residents have easy access to hiking and biking trails, as well as boating and fishing on the nearby rivers and lakes. For those who love winter sports, Mt. La Crosse offers the steepest ski slopes in the state, attracting visitors throughout the season.

The city is also a hub for arts and culture, with numerous museums and a thriving gallery scene. Festivals such as IrishFest and Oktoberfest bring the community together year-round, making the arts an integral part of life in La Crosse.

The presence of three universities contributes to a youthful energy in the city. La Crosse is often listed as one of the most economical college towns in the U.S. Its affordability and vibrant nightlife, fueled by students, make it an attractive option for younger residents. With over a dozen local breweries and wineries, the city’s social scene is buzzing.

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Affordable Living in La Crosse

When it comes to housing, La Crosse offers a more affordable alternative to Wisconsin’s larger cities. The median home price in La Crosse is around $265,000, a sharp contrast to cities like Milwaukee, where home prices top $400,000.

Along with affordable housing, La Crosse boasts a healthy job market. Companies like Kwik Trip and Old Style Beer are based in the city, and the unemployment rate is a low 2.2%, reflecting its stable economy.

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Other Notable Cities on the List

While La Crosse is the only city from Wisconsin to make Money’s top 50 list, it’s not the only Midwestern city recognized. Ferndale, Michigan, Kalamazoo, Michigan, Prairie Crossing, Illinois, and Northfield, Minnesota, were also among the cities included in the list.

La Crosse’s recognition as one of the best places to live underscores its unique balance of affordability, outdoor opportunities, and cultural richness—making it a prime spot for anyone considering a move to Wisconsin.

RELATED TOPICS: Real Estate | Wisconsin

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