Is Baraboo Safe, Pros and cons of living in Baraboo
Baraboo, Wisconsin, offers a blend of small-town charm and access to natural beauty, making it an attractive place for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. Nestled in Sauk County, the city is known for its historical ties to the circus and its proximity to outdoor recreational areas like Devil’s Lake State Park. This combination draws a diverse group of residents, from families to retirees, all looking for a community that balances tradition with modern living.
The city’s economy is supported by a variety of industries, and its location within the Madison metropolitan area provides additional economic opportunities. Baraboo’s appeal lies in its friendly atmosphere, scenic surroundings, and a community that values its heritage. Understanding the various facets of life in Baraboo, from safety and cost of living to employment and education, is crucial for anyone considering a move to this Wisconsin city.
Is it Safe to Live in Baraboo?
Baraboo’s crime rate is higher than the national average, with 15 crimes per one thousand residents (NeighborhoodScout). The likelihood of being a victim of either violent or property crime in Baraboo is approximately 1 in 66. This places Baraboo as a community where safety is a significant consideration for residents.
When compared to other cities in Wisconsin, Baraboo’s crime rate is higher than 86% of cities statewide (NeighborhoodScout). While its violent crime rate is higher than most communities of similar size across America, its property crime rate is closer to the average for comparable-sized towns (NeighborhoodScout). This suggests that while caution is advised, Baraboo is not among the communities with the absolute highest crime rates nationally.
Violent Crime Statistics
The chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Baraboo, such as robbery or assault, is about 1 in 452, or 2 per one thousand inhabitants (NeighborhoodScout). This rate is considered above average when compared to all communities in America, regardless of size.
For comparison, the chance of becoming a victim of violent crime in Wisconsin is 1 in 359 (NeighborhoodScout). While Baraboo’s rate is higher than the state average, it’s important to consider these statistics within the broader context of national crime data.
Property Crime Statistics
Property crime in Baraboo occurs at a rate of 13 per one thousand population (NeighborhoodScout). This means there is an elevated chance of becoming a victim of property crimes like larceny, burglary, or motor vehicle theft compared to the national average.
The odds of experiencing a property crime in Baraboo are approximately 1 in 78 (NeighborhoodScout). Law enforcement agencies across the U.S. report crime data, which is then analyzed to provide these crime rate statistics.
The Cost of Living in Baraboo
The cost of living in Baraboo, Wisconsin, is considered to be lower than the national average. This makes it an appealing option for individuals and families looking to manage their expenses more effectively.
When examining specific cost indicators, Baraboo’s housing market shows a median home value of $298,881 (Zillow). The median rent for an apartment in Baraboo is approximately $1,284, which is significantly lower than the national average rent of $1,910 (Zillow).
Housing Costs
Baraboo’s housing market has seen appreciation, with home values increasing by 3.2% over the past year (Zillow). The median sale price of a home in Baraboo was $278,000 in March 2026 (Redfin). The median price per square foot for homes in Baraboo is $188, showing a slight increase of 3.9% from the previous year (Redfin).
For renters, the average rent for all property types in Baraboo is $1,284 (Zillow). The rental price range can vary, with some listings as low as $850 and others reaching up to $12,515 (Zillow). This indicates a diverse rental market catering to different budgets.
Utilities and Transportation
While specific utility cost data for Baraboo is not readily available from the provided sources, general cost of living indices suggest that overall expenses are manageable. The average commute time for residents is around 23 minutes (Data USA), which is relatively standard and comparable to national averages.
Car ownership is also typical, with an average of two cars per household in Baraboo (Data USA). This suggests that a personal vehicle is a common and likely necessary mode of transportation for many residents.
Job Market and Employment in Baraboo
Baraboo’s economy is sustained by a diverse range of industries, contributing to a stable job market for its residents. The city serves as a business and farm service center for the surrounding region.
Major employers in the Baraboo area include Flambeau Inc., a manufacturer of molded plastics, Sysco Food Services of Baraboo, a wholesale food distributor, and Teel Plastics (Baraboo Chamber of Commerce). These companies play a significant role in providing employment opportunities within the community.
Average Salary and Wages
The average annual salary in Baraboo, WI, is approximately $44,000, or $21.15 per hour (Zippia). This figure represents the average earnings across various job roles within the city.
The range of salaries in Baraboo typically falls between $31,243 and $54,566 annually, depending on the occupation and experience level (ZipRecruiter). The minimum wage in Baraboo is $8.75 per hour, which is higher than the federal minimum wage (Zippia).
Unemployment Rate
The unemployment rate in Baraboo, WI, was reported at 4.20%, which is lower than the long-term average of 4.62% (YCharts). This rate reflects the current employment conditions in the local job market.
Nationally, the unemployment rate was 4.3% in April 2026 (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Baraboo’s unemployment rate is consistent with broader economic trends, indicating a relatively stable job market.
Climate and Weather in Baraboo
Baraboo experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers and no dry season (U.S. Climate Data). This climate type is classified as Dfb, indicating a climate with significant precipitation throughout the year.
The average annual temperature in Baraboo is around 8.52ºC (47.34ºF), which is slightly lower than the national average (U.S. Climate Data). The city receives approximately 52.93 millimeters (2.08 inches) of precipitation annually, with about 121.53 rainy days per year (U.S. Climate Data).
Average Temperatures
Average high temperatures in Baraboo can reach up to 82°F (28°C) during the summer months (Time and Date). Winter temperatures are considerably colder, with average high temperatures in January around 28°F (-2°C) (Time and Date).
The temperature fluctuations between seasons are characteristic of a continental climate. Residents can expect warm summers and cold, snowy winters typical of this region of the United States.
Precipitation and Seasonal Weather
Baraboo receives a moderate amount of precipitation throughout the year, with monthly averages ranging from 1.47 inches in January to 5.25 inches in June (Time and Date). This precipitation can come in the form of rain or snow, depending on the season.
The city experiences distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters. Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures, making them pleasant times to enjoy the local scenery and outdoor activities.
Education and School Ratings
Baraboo School District serves the educational needs of the city’s younger residents. The district has received a C+ overall rating from Niche, indicating a mixed but generally satisfactory educational environment.
Baraboo High School, a part of this district, holds a B-minus rating from Niche. This rating is based on a combination of academic performance, student and parent reviews, and other key statistics.
Baraboo School District Performance
The Baraboo School District has an overall rating of 3.19 out of 5 stars (Niche). While some reviews highlight dedicated teachers, others point to areas for improvement in administration and the handling of student issues like bullying (Niche).
The district serves pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students. Niche data indicates that the district’s performance is a subject of varied opinions among students and parents.
High School and Elementary School Ratings
Baraboo High School has a rating of 3.36 out of 5 stars, based on 120 reviews (Niche). It is recognized for its diversity and athletic programs within Wisconsin.
For elementary education, schools like North Freedom Elementary and Willson Elementary are part of the Baraboo School District. North Freedom Elementary received a C+ rating, while Willson Elementary also received a B-minus rating (Niche).
Demographics of Baraboo
Baraboo, Wisconsin, is home to a population of 12,556 as of the 2020 census (U.S. Census Bureau). The city’s population is predominantly White, with smaller percentages of other racial and ethnic groups.
The median age in Baraboo is 39.5 years, indicating a balanced age distribution across the population. Approximately 22.0% of residents are under 18, and 19.6% are 65 or older (U.S. Census Bureau).
Population and Racial Composition
As of the latest data, Baraboo’s population is estimated to be around 12,769, showing slight growth since the 2020 census (Census Dots). The racial composition is 87.7% White, 6.5% Multiracial, 3.5% Hispanic, and smaller percentages for Native American/Other, Black, and Asian residents (Census Dots).
This demographic makeup indicates that Baraboo is less racially diverse than Wisconsin overall. The share of White residents is higher than the state average, with Baraboo being more White than some neighboring communities (Census Dots).
Age and Household Statistics
The median age of 40.4 years in Baraboo is slightly higher for males at 41.5 years compared to females at 40.1 years (World Population Review). For every 100 females, there are approximately 91.1 males (World Population Review).
Households in Baraboo show that 40.7% are married-couple households, while a significant portion consists of single-female or single-male householders (U.S. Census Bureau). About 35.0% of households are made up of individuals, with 15.8% including someone aged 65 or older (U.S. Census Bureau).
Major Employers and Economic Drivers
Baraboo’s economy is bolstered by a mix of established businesses and its role as a regional service center. The city benefits from its strategic location within Wisconsin and the broader Midwest.
Key industries include manufacturing, wholesale distribution, and plastics. These sectors contribute significantly to the local employment landscape and economic stability.
Key Industries and Companies
Major employers in Baraboo include Flambeau Inc., a plastics manufacturer, and Sysco Food Services of Baraboo, a food distributor (Baraboo Chamber of Commerce). Teel Plastics is another notable company contributing to the industrial base.
The Baraboo area also features a range of retail outlets, including supermarkets, general merchandise stores, and specialty shops, supporting the local economy and providing essential services to residents.
Economic Development and Growth
Local development agencies are actively working to attract new industrial businesses to the Baraboo area. The Baraboo Area Chamber of Commerce plays a vital role in fostering economic growth and community development.
The mission of the Chamber is to improve the economic environment and assist community development, working with businesses and individuals to enhance job opportunities and overall economic stability (Baraboo Area Chamber of Commerce). This focus on economic development aims to ensure a prosperous future for the region.
Pros and Cons of Living in Baraboo
Baraboo offers a unique living experience, characterized by its small-town appeal, historical significance, and access to natural attractions. The community provides a slower pace of life that many find desirable.
However, like any city, it presents certain challenges that potential residents should consider. Understanding these advantages and disadvantages is key to making an informed decision about relocating to Baraboo.
Advantages of Baraboo Living
Baraboo’s charm lies in its circus history and proximity to Devil’s Lake State Park, offering abundant outdoor recreation (Baraboo Chamber of Commerce). The cost of living is generally lower than the national average, making it more affordable for many (Livability.com).
The community atmosphere is often described as friendly, and the city serves as a hub for local businesses and services. Its location also provides a connection to the larger Madison metropolitan area for additional opportunities.
Disadvantages of Baraboo Living
The crime rate in Baraboo is higher than the national average, which is a significant concern for safety (NeighborhoodScout). While not among the highest nationally, it is above the state average for Wisconsin cities.
The educational system, while having dedicated teachers, has received mixed reviews regarding administrative effectiveness and handling of certain student issues (Niche). Additionally, the city’s economy, while stable, may offer fewer high-paying specialized job opportunities compared to larger metropolitan areas.