Eau Claire, WI


27 Reviews



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Eau Claire, WI

About Eau Claire, WI

Eau Claire, Wisconsin is a dynamic city located in the Chippewa Valley. With its rolling hills, lush forests and tranquil rivers, it is an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore attractions such as Carson Park, the UW-Eau Claire campus, and Artisan Forge Studios. The downtown area offers plenty of dining options and entertainment spots like The Volume One Gallery and State Theatre. From peaceful retreats to big city thrills, Eau Claire has something for everyone! Medium-size metro area set in the rivers and woodlands of the Great Lakes region. Primary industries include healthcare and manufacturing. Also known as a college town. - Located in west Wisconsin, along the Chippewa River, 90 miles east of Minneapolis, Minnesota, and 200 miles northwest of Milwaukee..

Location Details

State: Wisconsin
County: Eau Claire County
Metro Area: Eau Claire Metro Area
City: Eau Claire
Zip Codes: 54703 54701
Cost of Living: -9.4% lower
Time zone: Central Standard Time (CST)
Elevation: 787 ft above sea level
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Dig Deeper on Eau Claire

Eau Claire, Wisconsin, emerges where the Eau Claire and Chippewa Rivers converge, weaving a narrative of growth and transformation. This city, with its roots deeply embedded in the lumber industry of the 19th century, has flourished into a metro area known for its cultural depth and economic diversity. The rivers that once served as lifelines for loggers now frame a community bustling with arts, education, and innovation.

The geography of Eau Claire is defined by waterways that meander through the city, creating islands and peninsulas that add to its unique charm. These natural features have shaped the city's layout and development, providing residents with scenic beauty and a plethora of outdoor activities. The region's climate mirrors the Upper Midwest's distinct seasons, offering warm summers for river activities and snowy winters ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in nearby parks.

Economically, Eau Claire has transitioned from its logging and milling origins to a more diversified economy. Health care, education, and manufacturing stand as pillars of the local economy, supported by a burgeoning technology sector. The city's commitment to fostering innovation can be seen in its support for startups and the presence of incubator programs aimed at nurturing new businesses.

Politically, the Eau Claire metro area exhibits a blend of perspectives. While historically leaning towards progressive values, recent elections have shown a competitive landscape, reflecting a thoughtful electorate open to a range of policies and ideas. This dynamic political environment underscores a community engaged in shaping its future.

Activities in Eau Claire cater to a wide array of interests, from the arts and music to sports and recreation. The city is home to several music festivals that draw crowds from across the country, celebrating genres from indie rock to country. For those drawn to the outdoors, the city's parks and trails offer endless exploration opportunities. Meanwhile, downtown Eau Claire is a testament to the city's revitalization efforts, with art galleries, local shops, and restaurants inviting residents and visitors to experience its renewed vibrancy.

Living in Eau Claire means being part of a community that values both its natural surroundings and cultural richness. New residents should know that embracing the local lifestyle involves enjoying the outdoors, participating in community events, and supporting the arts. The city's focus on education and innovation also makes it an appealing destination for students and professionals alike, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth.

For those contemplating a move to Eau Claire, the city promises a balance of urban amenities and natural beauty. Its history of resilience and reinvention is a testament to the community's strength, making it a welcoming place for newcomers seeking to contribute to its ongoing story. Eau Claire stands as a beacon of cultural and economic vitality in the heart of Wisconsin, inviting all to explore what it has to offer.

Eau Claire Cost of Living
$$$$

Reasonable home cost, college town, and low humidity make Eau Claire a great place to live.

$272,600
-24.0% lower than avg
$60,562
-14.0% lower than avg
$960 /mo
Monthly rent (2br)
-49.0% lower than avg
Eau Claire Crime
38.4 / 100
Crime is ranked on a scale of 1 (low) to 100 (high). US average: 35.4
Minimum annual income
To live comfortably in Eau Claire, Wisconsin
$52,200
for a family
$30,400
for a single person
Pros & Cons of Eau Claire
   Reasonable home cost
Harsh winters
   College town
High taxes
   Low humidity
Cold snaps
Reviews for Eau Claire
    See all (27)

I was born in Spokane, Washington but we moved to Eau Claire when I was no more than 2 years old, so you can bet that all I remember is Eau Claire and Chippewa. I went  More

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Progressive business for its  More

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Over 9 years ago

I am considering moving there because summer in Denver CO metro area is too hot to me although it is dry. Eau Claire seems to be a best place to move but my most  More

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