Oshkosh has a similar legacy but is larger and more economically diverse. There is a substantial forest products industry and the area is also a producer of emergency vehicles and specialized trucks. Beyond these industries, both cities have the usual Wisconsin assortment of dairy products, agriculture, and light manufacturing. Oshkosh is home to the 9000-student University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh campus. The cities have a distinct, clean, small-town feel with lots of trees and historic buildings, and residents have an uncommon pride for the area. Outdoor recreation is abundant, highlighted by water sports in summer and snowmobiling in winter. Crime rates are very low, and living cost are reasonable relative to incomes.

The Fox Cities sit in a mostly level valley plain surrounded by areas of low rolling and densely wooded hills. The decidedly continental climate receives the full effects of continental air masses, particularly in winter. Summers are pleasantly warm and sometimes humid, with occasional hot spells and cool evenings. Most precipitation arrives as thunderstorms from May through September. Winters are harsh and cold, although the coldest days are often sunny and dry. Most winter precipitation comes as snow with persistent snow cover. First freeze is early October, last is mid-May.