Is Mukwonago Safe, Pros and cons of living in Mukwonago

Mukwonago, Wisconsin, offers a blend of suburban amenities and small-town charm, making it an attractive place for potential residents. Located approximately 25 miles southwest of Milwaukee, this village provides convenient access to a larger metropolitan area while maintaining a distinct community feel. Its history, rooted in the Potawatomi settlement and officially incorporated in 1905, adds a layer of historical depth to its modern appeal.

The village is situated within Waukesha County, known for its scenic landscapes and recreational opportunities, including Phantom Lake and the Vernon Wildlife Area. Mukwonago itself spans 8.2 square miles, offering a growing industrial center and diverse housing options. This combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and accessible location positions Mukwonago as a noteworthy community for those considering a move to southeastern Wisconsin.

Is it Safe to Live in Mukwonago?

Mukwonago’s crime rate is a key consideration for potential residents. The village experiences a crime rate that is higher than the national average across all communities (13 crimes per one thousand residents). When compared to other communities of similar population size, Mukwonago’s combined violent and property crime rate is notably higher than average.

Specifically, the chance of becoming a victim of property crime in Mukwonago is higher than the national average, with a rate of 12 per one thousand population. This includes offenses like motor vehicle theft, arson, larceny, and burglary, giving residents a one in 85 chance of being a victim of these crimes. However, the violent crime rate in Mukwonago is about average for communities across America, with a rate of 1 per one thousand inhabitants. This category includes aggravated assault, armed robbery, murder, and rape. Mukwonago is considered safer than 70% of cities in the U.S. based on its violent crime rate.

Violent Crime Overview

The violent crime rate in Mukwonago is 2.213 per 1,000 residents annually. Residents often perceive the southeast part of the village as the safest area. While the overall crime rate is higher than the national average, the violent crime rate itself is considered average for communities across the United States.

The chance of experiencing violent crime can vary by neighborhood, with the west neighborhoods presenting a higher risk (1 in 244) compared to the southeast neighborhoods (1 in 695). The total projected cost of crime in Mukwonago for 2025 is estimated at $3,082,894, averaging to about $162 per resident.

Property Crime Analysis

Property crime in Mukwonago is a more significant concern than violent crime when compared to national averages. The rate for property crime is 12 per 1,000 population, indicating an above-average chance of victimization. This encompasses a range of offenses, including larceny, burglary, motor vehicle theft, and arson.

The data suggests that the central parts of Mukwonago experience the highest number of total crime incidents, estimated at around 65 per year. Conversely, the southeast area of the city reports the fewest incidents, with approximately 1 crime annually. Overall, Mukwonago ranks in the 86th percentile for safety, meaning it is safer than 86% of cities, though less safe than 14%.

Cost of Living in Mukwonago

Mukwonago’s overall cost of living is approximately 2% higher than the national average. This figure is influenced by various expense categories, with housing being a primary driver of the increased cost.

Housing expenses in Mukwonago are notably higher, estimated at 15% above the national average. Utilities, however, are more affordable, costing 7% less than the national average. Transportation costs, such as gas prices and bus fares, are marginally higher by about 1% compared to the national average. Grocery prices also reflect a slight increase, being 1% higher than the national average. Healthcare costs are also 1% higher than the national average.

Housing Costs and Market

The housing market in Mukwonago presents a median home value of $366,200 as of 2024. This represents a 9.02% increase from the previous year, indicating a growing property value trend. The median listing price for homes in Mukwonago is around $517.4K, with 69 homes currently on the market.

The homeownership rate in Mukwonago is 73%, which is higher than the national average of 65.2%. For renters, the median gross rent in Mukwonago is $1,142 per month, according to data from 2020-2024. This median rent is lower than the national average, which is $1,413.

Income and Employment

The median household income in Mukwonago has seen growth, reaching $98,273 in 2024. This indicates a 2.27% increase from the previous year. The average per capita income in Mukwonago is $53,165.

Mukwonago’s unemployment rate stands at 4.5%. In terms of employment sectors, manufacturing is the largest, employing 962 residents, followed by health care and social assistance (877 residents), and retail trade (510 residents). Major private employers in the village include Aptar Mukwonago, ProHealth Waukesha Memorial Hospital, Home Depot, and Milwaukee Tool, with employee counts ranging from 100 to 499 individuals.

Demographics of Mukwonago

Mukwonago is a village in Waukesha County, Wisconsin, with a population of approximately 8,415 residents. The community is experiencing growth, with projections indicating a population of 8,610 by 2026. The village’s population has increased by 3.54% since the most recent census in 2020.

The demographic profile of Mukwonago shows a predominantly White population, accounting for about 84% of residents. Other racial groups include Asian residents at 4%, with smaller percentages for Black or African American, Native American, and multiracial populations. Hispanic or Latino residents make up about 7.6% of the population.

Age and Household Composition

The median age in Mukwonago is approximately 39.4 years. The age distribution shows that 25.9% of residents are between 0 and 19 years old, 30.2% are between 20 and 44, 28.0% are between 45 and 64, and 15.9% are 65 and older.

Mukwonago is home to 3,331 households, with an average of 3 members per household. Approximately 64.4% of these households are families, while the remaining 35.6% consist of individuals living alone or with non-relatives. The homeownership rate is 73%, indicating that a majority of residents own their homes.

Diversity and Citizenship

Mukwonago’s population is largely composed of U.S. citizens, with 96.6% of residents holding citizenship. This rate is higher than the national average of 93.2%. As of 2024, about 6.48% of Mukwonago residents were born outside the United States, which is comparable to the national average of 14%.

While Mukwonago is predominantly White, it is ranked #42 out of 111 in the “Most Diverse Suburbs in Wisconsin” by Niche. This suggests that while the majority population is White, there are efforts and characteristics that contribute to a degree of diversity within the suburban context.

Major Employers and Job Market

Mukwonago’s economy is supported by a variety of major employers across different sectors. The largest private employers are concentrated in manufacturing, health, retail, and other service industries. Key companies include Aptar Mukwonago, ProHealth Waukesha Memorial Hospital, Home Depot, and Milwaukee Tool, each employing between 250 and 499 individuals.

Other significant employers include Banker Wire, LindenGrove Mukwonago, and Walmart, with employee counts ranging from 100 to 249 individuals. The village also boasts several business parks, such as Mukwonago Gateway Center and Mukwonago Industrial Park, which contribute to the local job market by housing various enterprises.

Employment by Industry

Manufacturing is the leading employment sector for Mukwonago residents, with 962 individuals employed in this industry. Health Care & Social Assistance follows as the second-largest sector, employing 877 residents. Retail Trade is the third-largest sector, providing employment for 510 residents.

The labor force in Mukwonago consists of approximately 4,709 residents. The unemployment rate for Waukesha County was 2.6% as of March 2022. The most common occupations among residents include Management, Business, Science, and Arts (36.1%), followed by Sales and Office roles (22.1%), and Services (14.5%).

Economic Growth and Opportunities

Mukwonago is characterized by a growing industrial center and offers a variety of housing options. The village’s strategic location on IH 43 provides good access for businesses and residents alike. There are five commercial parks within the village, covering approximately 760 acres, indicating potential for further economic development and business expansion.

The job market reflects a mix of opportunities in established industries and emerging sectors. The presence of major healthcare providers like ProHealth Care and retail giants like Walmart suggests a stable job market in essential services. The village’s proximity to Milwaukee also offers residents access to a broader range of employment opportunities in a larger metropolitan area.

Climate in Mukwonago

Mukwonago experiences a climate characterized by distinct seasons, with warm, wet summers and cold, snowy, and windy winters. The weather throughout the year is generally partly cloudy. Temperatures typically fluctuate between 14°F and 82°F, rarely dropping below -5°F or exceeding 90°F.

The warm season extends from late May to mid-September, with average daily high temperatures climbing above 71°F. July is the hottest month, with highs around 81°F and lows of 62°F. Conversely, the cold season lasts from early December to early March, with average daily high temperatures below 39°F. January is the coldest month, with average lows around 15°F and highs near 28°F.

Temperature and Rainfall

The average annual temperature in Mukwonago ranges from a low of 36°F to a high of 56°F. However, more specific monthly averages indicate a broader range, with July highs around 82°F and January lows near 12°F. The village receives an average annual precipitation of about 37 inches.

Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with June typically being the wettest month, averaging 3.8 inches of precipitation. January experiences the least rainfall, with an average of 0.5 inches. A wet day is defined as one with at least 0.04 inches of precipitation, and Mukwonago has a greater than 25% chance of a wet day between late March and early October. February sees the fewest wet days, averaging about 3.9 days with precipitation.

Seasonal Weather Patterns

Summers in Mukwonago are warm and humid, with temperatures often in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit. The humidity level remains comfortable during these months, contributing to a pleasant environment. Autumn brings cooler temperatures and changing foliage, while spring offers a transition from winter’s chill to summer’s warmth.

Winters are cold, with average high temperatures in the 20s and 30s Fahrenheit. Snowfall is common during these months, contributing to an average annual snowfall of 41 inches. The combination of cold temperatures, snow, and wind defines the winter season in Mukwonago.

Education in Mukwonago

Mukwonago is served by the Mukwonago Area School District (MASD), which consistently ranks among the top school districts in Wisconsin. The district covers 90 square miles and includes all or parts of 11 different communities in Waukesha County, offering a mix of suburban amenities and small-town environments.

MASD is recognized for its academic excellence, with a strong performance on state accountability report cards, earning an “Exceeds Expectations” rating. The district is committed to preparing students for college and careers through relevant and innovative learning pathways, including a strong emphasis on technology and an award-winning career and technical education program.

School District Performance

The Mukwonago Area School District is highly rated, holding an overall Niche grade of A minus. It serves approximately 4,835 students in grades PK through 12, with a student-teacher ratio of 15 to 1. State test scores indicate that 42% of students are proficient in math and 51% are proficient in reading.

The district’s average testing ranking is 10/10, placing it in the top 10% of public schools in Wisconsin. Public schools within the district show an average math proficiency score of 63% and a reading proficiency score of 59%, both significantly higher than the Wisconsin public school averages. The district’s graduation rate is 97%, which has remained relatively stable over five school years.

Notable Schools and Programs

Among the district’s high-achieving schools are Prairie View and Section Elementary Schools, both recognized as National Blue Ribbon schools. Eagleville Elementary Charter has also received a National Green Ribbon award for its sustainability efforts. Mukwonago High School consistently ranks among the top high schools in Wisconsin, typically falling between the 24th and 102nd positions out of over 400 high schools statewide.

The district employs a talented staff, with over 70% of teachers holding master’s degrees and many maintaining National Board certification. The staff retention rate is high at 97%, reflecting a positive working environment. The district also offers an award-winning career and technical education program, preparing students for future success.

Pros and Cons of Living in Mukwonago

Mukwonago offers a compelling living experience with a strong sense of community and access to amenities. The village provides a dense suburban feel, with most residents owning their homes, fostering a stable community environment. Its location near natural attractions like Phantom Lake and the Vernon Wildlife Area offers abundant recreational opportunities.

The highly-rated public schools are a significant draw for families, contributing to Mukwonago’s appeal as a place to raise children. The median household income is robust, and the community tends to be conservative, which may appeal to certain demographics. Mukwonago is also recognized for its commitment to public spaces, with an extensive park system offering various activities.

Advantages of Mukwonago

One of the primary advantages of living in Mukwonago is its highly-rated public school system, which is ranked among the best in Wisconsin. The village offers a desirable blend of suburban living with access to natural beauty, including numerous parks and recreational areas. The median household income is strong, suggesting economic stability for its residents.

Mukwonago provides a welcoming environment for families and young professionals, characterized by a conservative outlook and a strong sense of community. Its location, about 25 miles southwest of Milwaukee, offers the convenience of proximity to a major city while maintaining a quieter, small-town atmosphere. The homeownership rate is high, at 73%, indicating a significant investment in the community by its residents.

Challenges and Considerations

While Mukwonago offers many benefits, potential residents should consider certain challenges. The crime rate in Mukwonago is higher than the national average, particularly concerning property crimes. Although violent crime rates are average, the overall safety statistics warrant attention.

The cost of living in Mukwonago is 2% higher than the national average, with housing expenses being 15% higher. While utilities are more affordable, the overall housing market can be a significant financial consideration for those looking to relocate. The median home value is $366,200, and the median listing price can reach over $500,000, reflecting a competitive market.