Is Neenah Safe, Pros and cons of living in Neenah

Neenah, Wisconsin, offers a blend of Midwestern charm and modern amenities, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a new place to call home. Nestled on the shores of Lake Winnebago, this city provides a picturesque setting with a strong sense of community. Its strategic location in the Fox Valley region offers convenient access to larger urban centers while maintaining a distinct local identity.

The city is known for its diverse economy, with a robust manufacturing sector complemented by a growing corporate office presence. This economic foundation supports a stable job market and provides opportunities for a wide range of professionals. Neenah’s commitment to community development is evident in its well-maintained public spaces and active local government, aiming to enhance the quality of life for its residents.

Is it Safe to Live in Neenah?

Neenah is generally considered a safe city, with crime rates that are below both state and national averages. The overall crime rate in Neenah is 39% lower than the national average per 100,000 residents (as reported by AreaVibes). Violent crime rates are also significantly lower, with 56.4% fewer reported incidents than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes).

Property crime rates in Neenah are also favorable, standing 35.1% below the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). The chance of being a victim of violent crime in Neenah is approximately 1 in 640, and the chance of being a victim of property crime is about 1 in 88 (as reported by NeighborhoodScout). Neenah’s overall crime rate is considered 52% below the national average, earning it a crime safety grade of A as of 2026 (as reported by DoorProfit).

Cost of Living and Housing

The cost of living in Neenah is notably lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. Overall living costs in Neenah are 9% lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). Housing costs are a significant contributor to this affordability, with Neenah’s housing expenses being 22% lower than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes).

The median home value in Neenah was $202,590 (as reported by Livability.com), and the median sale price of a home in March 2026 was $331,000 (as reported by Redfin). For renters, the average rent for all property types in Neenah is $1,229 as of May 2, 2026 (as reported by Zillow). A one-bedroom apartment in Neenah averages $1,612, while a two-bedroom apartment averages $2,079 (as reported by Rentometer).

Job Market and Economy

Neenah boasts a diverse and resilient economy, with major employers spanning various sectors. Key industries include manufacturing, healthcare, and professional services, providing a stable employment landscape for residents. The city is home to prominent companies such as Plexus, Kimberly-Clark, and ThedaCare Regional Medical Center Neenah (as reported by the City of Neenah).

The average annual salary in Neenah is approximately $47,000, or $22.60 per hour (as reported by Zippia). However, more recent data from May 2026 indicates an average annual salary of $53,539 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). For the Oshkosh-Neenah Metropolitan Statistical Area, the average hourly wage was $28.28 in May 2023 (as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics).

The unemployment rate in Neenah has seen some fluctuations. As of January 2026, the unemployment figure was 427.00, an increase from the previous month and year (as reported by YCharts). However, the Oshkosh-Neenah Metropolitan Statistical Area reported an unemployment rate of 2.5% in February 2026 (as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Climate and Environment

Neenah experiences a four-season climate typical of the Midwest, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. July is the warmest month, with average high temperatures around 81°F and lows of 63°F. January is the coldest, with average highs of 26°F and lows of 12°F (as reported by NOAA and WeatherWorld.com).

Precipitation is moderate throughout the year, with an average of 824 mm annually (as reported by BestPlaces). June is typically the wettest month, receiving about 111 mm of rain, while February is the driest (as reported by BestPlaces). The city’s location on Lake Winnebago influences its climate, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities.

Education and Demographics

Neenah is served by the Neenah Joint School District, which is rated as an A-minus by Niche. The district serves approximately 6,497 students in grades PK-12, with a student-teacher ratio of 16:1 (as reported by Niche). Neenah High School, also rated by Niche, has an overall grade of A-minus, with a student-teacher ratio of 17:1 (as reported by Niche).

The population of Neenah was approximately 27,336 as of 2024 (as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau). The median age in Neenah is around 38.0 years (as reported by CUBIT). The racial makeup of Neenah is predominantly White, at 82.5%, followed by Hispanic at 8.5%, and Multiracial at 3.9% (as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau).

Major Employers

Neenah’s diverse economic base is supported by several major employers across different industries. These companies not only provide employment opportunities but also contribute to the city’s economic vitality. Key employers include Plexus Corporation, a global leader in design and manufacturing, and Kimberly-Clark, a well-known consumer products company (as reported by the City of Neenah).

Other significant employers in Neenah include ThedaCare Regional Medical Center, a leading healthcare provider, and Neenah Foundry, a prominent manufacturing firm (as reported by the City of Neenah). Alta Resources Corporation, providing business services, and the Neenah Joint School District are also substantial contributors to the local workforce (as reported by the City of Neenah).