Article Overview:Roundup of the Pros & Cons of Living in Wisconsin
Hey cheeseheads and soon-to-be cheeseheads!
Im Emily, a Wisconsin native whos spent my life enjoying the beauty and charm of the Badger State.
Thinking about joining the friendly folks of Wisconsin?
Living in Wisconsin | (Shutterstock/Mihai_Andritoiu)
But before you grab your cheese curds (essential!
), its important to get the full picture.
Well explore everything from the low cost of living (hello, budget-friendly!)
So, grab a Spotted Cow (because whats Wisconsin without beer?
High Quality of Life
One of the best things about living in Wisconsin is the great quality of life.
It seems like Im not the only one that thinks so.
Wisconsin ranks as one of thebest states in US for quality of life.
I think the high quality of life has to do with the simple way of living in Wisconsin.
Folks arent overly consumed by material things and prefer to relish in the small joys of living.
#2.
The Locals Are Kind
Midwest locals are known for being some of the nicest in the country.
Youll be greeted everywhere you go and folks will be eager to chat you up.
But itd be naive to assume that making friends will be easy while living in Wisconsin.
Like most places in America, kindness doesnt always equate to friendship.
Gossip is as common as small talk.
#3.
Simply put, folks are able to enjoy things more because they can (actually) afford them!
Those moving to Wisconsin from big cities will find everyday life to be much more affordable.
#4.
But its not hard to see why, Wisconsin often ranks as having thebest healthcare in the country.
The expertise spans the gamut from the renowned cardiologists and brain surgeons to everyday wellness checks.
#5.
And its true, the never-ending list of outdoor activities is bound to impress anyone that loves nature.
#6.
By and large, more funding goes to public schools in cities than rural areas.
#7.
Picture-Perfect Summers
Summers in Wisconsin couldnt be dreamier.
Summer temperatures rarely exceed 85F and you’re able to count on sunshine from June through September.
Admittedly, the summer months are humid, but the humidity is tolerable (uncomfortable, but tolerable).
In fact, many of our friends refuse to leave Wisconsin because of the blissful summer weather.
#8.
Home to 75 breweries, Wisconsin is considered the7th best state in the country for beer lovers.
Theres a ton of great local spots to check out, especially if you love IPAs.
Cons of Moving to Wisconsin
#1.
Wisconsin is Insular
Something most people dont talk about is how insular Wisconsin feels.
I want to talk about travel, but alas, thats been hard to come by.
Its not all bad though.
The perk of the states insular nature is that most places in Wisconsin have a genuine community feel.
#2.
The states income taxes are levied on a variable scale (ranging from 3.54-7.65% depending on income).
But honestly, if youre making that amount youre probably doing something right!
In terms of property taxes, at 1.63% Wisconsin has the7th highest property taxesin the country.
#3.
Winters are Brutal
Lets talk about winter weather because it should be taken into consideration before moving to Wisconsin.
Were not just taking freezing temperatures, were talking snow and lots of it.
Hurley is the snowiest town, with average snowfall clocking in at 200 inches (imagine!).
By contrast, Sagamore Beach and Sandwich only see snowfall of 15.5 inches per year.
#4.
These are very troubling stats because high alcohol consumption leads to serious ailments later in life.
Likewise, Wisconsin also has the4th highest DUI ratesin the country.
Especially if you (or your family members) have struggled with alcohol abuse in the past.
Living in Wisconsin may prove difficult because youll constantly be surrounded by drinking culture.
#5.
Prep for Mosquitos
One of the biggest disadvantages of living in Wisconsin are the intolerable bugs.
It seems like we have the worst of them: ticks, mosquitos and spiders galore.
In my opinion, the mosquitos are the worst of the bunch.
These little buggers plague the state in the summer months and make hiking an unbearable endeavor during hatching season.
But dont just take my word for it,heres the drama from summer 2018.