Moving to Wisconsin checklist: Weather preparedness. Cost of living. Housing market. Employment opportunities. Local taxes. Healthcare facilities. Education system. Transportation options. Cultural attractions. Outdoor activities.
Weather preparedness
As winter approaches, it is crucial to ensure both your home and vehicle are prepared to withstand the harsh conditions. Begin by maintaining essential tools such as snow shovels, de-icing compounds, and generators. It's also wise to stock an emergency kit with necessary items like food, water, and a battery-powered weather radio. One of the most important steps is to prepare your vehicle by ensuring it has the proper fluids, reliable tires, and a comprehensive emergency kit. For those in cold regions like Wisconsin, having warm clothing and staying informed about local weather forecasts and road conditions can greatly help in navigating severe weather. Additionally, it's advisable to create an emergency preparedness plan and keep your insurance up-to-date. For more detailed guidance, you can explore the Winter Preparedness Checklist for comprehensive tips on safeguarding against winter's challenges. Taking precautions like cleaning gutters and trimming trees will also help protect your property during severe weather. With these measures in place, you can face winter with confidence and security.
Cost of living
The cost of living in Wisconsin is notably 2% lower than the national average, featuring housing costs that are 11% lower, making it an attractive option for potential residents. While utilities here are 3% higher, the affordability of housing, especially in smaller cities, stands out. On the other hand, healthcare costs are 10% higher than the national average, which should be a consideration for those planning to move. Other expenses such as food, and goods & services generally align with or slightly exceed the national averages, providing a balanced cost scenario. For more detailed insights, the Cost of Living Calculator can be a useful tool to estimate and plan expenses effectively.
Housing market
In Wisconsin, the housing market in 2024 is characterized by a balanced market with 2 months of supply, low inventory, and rising home prices at 8.6% year-over-year, with a median home price of $327,000 and homes typically selling within 43 days. Despite increasing inventory, it remains a seller's market, with home sales up 6.6% year-over-year and new constructions expected to meet high demand. For more insights into the state's real estate trends and data projections, visit the Wisconsin Real Estate Market analysis and stay informed.
Employment opportunities
Wisconsin offers robust employment opportunities through the Job Center of Wisconsin, a free online portal that connects job seekers with various employment options, resume and job search assistance, training programs, and resources for specific groups such as veterans and individuals with disabilities. The state has also seen a strong job market recovery from the pandemic, with record-high employment levels and a low unemployment rate.
Local taxes
In Wisconsin, local taxes encompass various forms, including a property tax that averages 1.61% of a home's assessed value. Additionally, there is a sales tax of 5%, with the option for counties to impose an additional 0.5% tax, which will increase to 0.9% in Milwaukee County as of January 1, 2024. Another notable local tax is the municipal or county vehicle registration fee, commonly known as the wheel tax, which varies by location and is primarily used for transportation purposes. For more detailed information, you can visit the Wisconsin Department of Revenue website.
Healthcare facilities
To find and choose healthcare facilities in Wisconsin, you can use the Wisconsin Department of Health Services' resources, which include directories for licensed hospitals and swing bed hospitals, as well as tools to compare hospital quality, safety, and compliance with state and federal regulations. The site also provides links to national resources for evaluating hospital performance and patient care standards.
Education system
In Wisconsin, the education system is governed by the state constitution, which mandates a free and uniform basic education for all children. The system includes 421 school districts, each with an elected school board, and is overseen by the Department of Public Instruction (DPI), which sets academic standards, ensures teacher certification, and provides special education services.
Transportation options
When moving to Wisconsin, you must apply for a Wisconsin vehicle title and license plates within a short timeframe, and ensure you display the new plates within two business days of purchase. You can apply online, by mail, or in person, and must provide the necessary documentation, including your out-of-state title and proof of residency.
Cultural attractions
Wisconsin offers a rich cultural scene with numerous museums, performing arts centers, galleries, and Native American cultural events. Highlights include the Milwaukee Art Museum, the Paine Art Center and Gardens, and various Native American museums and pow wows, as well as historic theaters and unique attractions like the National Mustard Museum and the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum.
Outdoor activities
Wisconsin offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, golf, and water sports, with numerous state and national parks, forests, and trails providing diverse landscapes and opportunities for year-round recreation. For more information on these activities, visit Travel Wisconsin for a comprehensive guide to the best outdoor experiences the state has to offer.