Is Menomonie Safe, Pros and cons of living in Menomonie

Menomonie, Wisconsin, offers a blend of small-town charm and practical amenities, making it an attractive location for those seeking a change of pace. The city is situated in Dunn County, known for its natural beauty and a community that values its local heritage. This balance creates an environment where residents can enjoy a quieter lifestyle while still having access to essential services and opportunities.

The University of Wisconsin-Stout is a significant presence in Menomonie, contributing to a youthful and dynamic atmosphere. This academic institution not only provides educational pathways but also serves as a major employer and a hub for community engagement. The city’s location in western Wisconsin also places it within proximity to larger metropolitan areas, offering a convenient balance for those who appreciate both rural tranquility and urban accessibility.

Is it Safe to Live in Menomonie?

Menomonie generally presents a safe environment for its residents, with crime rates that are notably lower than the national average. The city’s commitment to safety is reflected in its statistics, providing a sense of security for those living there. Overall, Menomonie is considered safer than a significant portion of cities across the United States.

Violent crime rates in Menomonie are substantially below the national average, indicating a lower risk of experiencing such incidents. Property crime rates also fall below the national average, contributing to the perception of Menomonie as a secure place to live. Year over year, crime in Menomonie has seen a slight increase, though it remains well below national benchmarks (as reported by AreaVibes in 2024).

Housing Costs in Menomonie

The housing market in Menomonie presents a mixed picture, with varying data points on home values and rental prices. Recent reports indicate a median home value that is significantly lower than the national average, suggesting affordability for prospective homeowners. This makes Menomonie an appealing option for individuals and families looking to purchase property.

Rental prices in Menomonie are also competitive, generally falling below the national average. The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $790 per month, with two-bedroom apartments averaging approximately $989 per month (as of May 2026, according to Apartments.com). This affordability in both buying and renting contributes to Menomonie’s appeal as a place to live.

The median sale price of a home in Menomonie was around $235,000 in March 2026, though this figure has seen a year-over-year decrease (as reported by Redfin). Zillow reports a slightly different median home value of $298,133 as of March 31, 2026, with a 3.4% increase over the past year. These figures highlight a dynamic market where prices can fluctuate, but overall affordability remains a key characteristic.

Job Market and Economy

Menomonie’s job market is supported by a diverse range of employers, contributing to a stable economic environment. The city’s unemployment rate is generally comparable to, or slightly above, the state and national averages, reflecting typical economic fluctuations. Recent data shows the unemployment rate at 4.90%, which is higher than the long-term average (as of April 2026, according to YCharts).

Major employers in Menomonie include the University of Wisconsin-Stout, Walmart Distribution Center, and various manufacturing and healthcare facilities. The presence of UW-Stout, in particular, not only provides significant employment but also drives innovation and community development through its outreach programs. This diverse employment base offers a range of opportunities for residents across different sectors.

The average annual household income in Menomonie was reported at $76,900 in 2024, with a median income of $56,889 (according to the U.S. Census Bureau). These figures provide a snapshot of the economic well-being of the community, with income levels generally aligning with the cost of living.

Climate and Weather

Menomonie experiences a four-season climate typical of the Upper Midwest. Summers are generally warm and pleasant, with average high temperatures in July reaching around 82°F, while winter months are cold and snowy, with January lows averaging around 9°F. The temperature typically ranges from 9°F to 82°F throughout the year, rarely experiencing extremes outside of this range (according to BestPlaces).

The city receives a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with precipitation levels generally consistent with regional averages. Winters are characterized by significant snowfall and wind, contributing to the classic Midwestern winter experience. The clearest part of the year typically occurs from late spring through early fall, with July being the clearest month.

Over the course of the year, Menomonie experiences seasonal variations in cloud cover. January is generally the cloudiest month, while July offers the most clear and partly cloudy days. This weather pattern provides distinct seasonal experiences for residents, from warm summers to crisp autumns and snowy winters.

Education in Menomonie

Menomonie is served by the Menomonie Area School District, which generally receives positive ratings for its educational offerings. The district, which includes Menomonie High School, is rated as a B+ overall by Niche. This indicates a solid educational foundation for students in the community.

Menomonie High School itself is rated as a B, with specific strengths noted in areas such as athletics and teacher quality. State test scores show that approximately 31% of students are proficient in math and 26% in reading, which are areas for potential growth within the district.

The presence of the University of Wisconsin-Stout plays a crucial role in the educational landscape, offering higher education opportunities and contributing to the city’s academic vibrancy. UW-Stout is a designated polytechnic university, enrolling nearly 7,000 students and having a substantial economic impact on the region (as reported by Wikipedia and the University of Wisconsin-Stout).

Demographics of Menomonie

Menomonie has a population of approximately 16,539 residents, with a slight majority being female (52.6% female, 47.4% male) (as of the latest Census data). The city’s population is relatively young, with a median age of 26.1 years.

The racial makeup of Menomonie is predominantly White, with 91.1% of residents identifying as Caucasian. Other racial groups are present in smaller percentages, including Asian, African American, and those identifying with two or more races. The majority of residents are U.S.-born citizens, with a small percentage being naturalized citizens or non-citizens.

Households in Menomonie average 2.2 members. A significant portion of households consist of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, while 42.6% are families. The median household income is $56,889, with a poverty rate of 17.72% (according to the U.S. Census Bureau and World Population Review).