10 Safest Places to Live in Wisconsin: Your Guide to Secure Communities in 2025

When choosing a home in Wisconsin, safety is a top priority. Knowing you live in one of the 10 safest places to live in Wisconsin means peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Whether you are raising a family or enjoying retirement, safety affects your daily comfort, property protection, and quality of life.

Families look for secure neighborhoods with safe schools and parks where their children can thrive. Retirees seek calm, quiet communities with reliable emergency services and a peaceful atmosphere. This blog post examines the Wisconsin safest cities and towns using detailed crime statistics, community features, lifestyle factors, housing costs, and amenities. Our goal is to help you discover the best cities in Wisconsin for safety that fit your needs.

Why Safety Is a Vital Factor When Choosing a Place to Live in Wisconsin

Safety in your community means protection from harm, both personally and financially. Living in a low crime Wisconsin town lowers stress levels and helps residents enjoy daily life without fear.

For families, safety means children attend secure schools, play in protected parks, and participate in neighborhood activities with minimal worry. These conditions support healthy development and peace of mind.

Retirees prioritize neighborhoods with calm environments, easy access to health care, and dependable emergency response for uninterrupted, worry-free living.

Beyond personal well-being, safer communities hold higher property values. Residents tend to engage more socially, contributing to stronger community bonds and neighborhood vitality. Studies link living in Wisconsin safest cities to higher satisfaction and stronger local economies. Thus, safety benefits not just individual households but entire communities.

Criteria for Choosing the Safest Places to Live in Wisconsin

Identifying the best cities in Wisconsin for safety requires a thorough look at several factors:

Crime Statistics

Core to safety evaluations are numbers on violent crimes (such as assault and homicide) and property crimes (including burglary and theft). The latest 2025 crime data highlight towns with minimal rates, reflecting actual safety on the ground.

Community Policing and Neighborhood Watch

Active, visible police forces and engaged residents working together deter crime. Neighborhood watch groups and community policing efforts create a cooperative safety net, improving security and residents’ sense of safety.

Socioeconomic Factors

Towns with higher median household incomes and educational attainment tend to have fewer crime incidents. Economic stability supports better resources, infrastructure, and community programs that enhance safety.

Amenities and Emergency Services

Access to good health care, fire stations, and recreational centers adds layers of protection and improves residents’ quality of life, ensuring safety from emergencies and lifestyle-related risks.

Local Government Commitment

Communities that invest wisely in public safety policies and infrastructure — hiring well-trained officers, upgrading technology, and supporting safety programs — maintain an ongoing low crime environment.

Wisconsin-Specific Context: Urban vs Rural Dynamics

In Wisconsin, smaller towns often report lower crime rates than larger cities, yet factors like demographic makeup and community involvement are key. For example, Milton Town’s rural character and low population density contribute to its excellent safety record.

By considering these criteria together, you can pinpoint the safest places to live in Wisconsin with well-rounded profiles beyond crime rates alone.

The 10 Safest Places to Live in Wisconsin: Detailed Profiles for 2025

After analyzing data from SafeWise, Niche, and local sources, here are the safest communities ranked for 2025, each thoroughly reviewed.

1. Mount Horeb

Mount Horeb is a small, welcoming town known for its strong community ties and charming natural scenery nestled in southern Wisconsin.

• Population: ~7,000 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$300,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,000 per month
• Median Household Income: ~$70,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Four distinct seasons with cold winters averaging below freezing and warm summers ideal for outdoor activities.
• Economy and Jobs: Employment is centered around retail, manufacturing, and professionals commuting to nearby Madison.
• Educational Opportunities: Well-rated public schools with nearby access to the University of Wisconsin-Madison and other colleges.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Mount Horeb boasts very low violent and property crime rates, supported by active community policing and neighborhood watch programs.
• Ideal For: Families seeking a secure environment and retirees desiring a peaceful, small-town atmosphere.
• Known For: Celebrated as the “Troll Capital of the World,” the town’s rich local culture and events strengthen community bonds.

Mount Horeb ranks as one of the safest places to live in Wisconsin thanks to its low crime, strong schools, and deep community spirit.

2. Cottage Grove

Cottage Grove combines suburban convenience with a tight-knit community feel, located near Madison with extensive green spaces.

• Population: ~7,500 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$350,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,200/month
• Median Household Income: ~$80,000
• Local Weather and Climate: True Midwest climate with snowy winters and warm, sunny summers.
• Economy and Jobs: Job options include manufacturing, education, health care, and proximity to Madison’s job market.
• Educational Opportunities: High-performing public schools complemented by accessible higher education institutions.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: One of the consistently low crime towns in Wisconsin, with strong neighborhood watch programs and community engagement.
• Ideal For: Growing families looking for safe living with access to urban amenities.
• Known For: Extensive parks and trails promoting healthy outdoor lifestyles.
• Cottage Grove stands out as a safe, affordable place for families to enjoy Wisconsin’s best outdoors with added urban benefits.

3. Hobart-Lawrence

Hobart-Lawrence represents an upscale suburban area with well-maintained neighborhoods and community-centered living north of Green Bay.

• Population: ~13,000 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$320,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,100/month
• Median Household Income: ~$85,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Cold winters with moderate snowfall and warm summers ideal for outdoor recreation.
• Economy and Jobs: Strong presence of manufacturing, retail, and service industries; nearby urban centers provide diverse employment.
• Educational Opportunities: Schools receive excellent state ratings; proximity to Green Bay Area Technical College.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Known as one of the low crime Wisconsin towns, Hobart-Lawrence’s community policing and citizen involvement create a stable safety environment.
• Ideal For: Professionals, families, and retirees prioritizing tranquility with broader service access.
• Known For: Family-friendly recreational areas and community events.

Hobart-Lawrence combines strong safety measures with idyllic suburban living, making it a best city in Wisconsin for safety.

4. Waunakee

Waunakee is acclaimed for its small-town charm with excellent local amenities and a respected school system located west of Madison.

• Population: ~14,000 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$370,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,250/month
• Median Household Income: ~$90,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Typical Wisconsin climate of cold snowy winters and warm summers.
• Economy and Jobs: Local businesses thrive alongside commuting opportunities to Madison’s diverse job base.
• Educational Opportunities: Strong public schools with advanced programs and supportive community education initiatives.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Waunakee consistently falls within the rankings of Wisconsin safest cities due to extremely low crime and proactive safety programs.
• Ideal For: Families and retirees seeking a strong community focus and excellent safety records.
• Known For: Award-winning schools and family-centered community events.

Waunakee offers an exceptional balance of safety, quality education, and small-town friendliness.

5. Port Washington

Located on Lake Michigan’s shores, Port Washington offers a scenic waterfront lifestyle with historic charm and vibrant community life.

• Population: ~12,000 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$280,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,000/month
• Median Household Income: ~$65,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Winters are cold and snowy; summers are warm with refreshing lake breezes.
• Economy and Jobs: Strong tourism, retail, and manufacturing sectors supplemented by commuting options to larger cities.
• Educational Opportunities: Well-rated public and private schools; proximity to technical colleges.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Port Washington qualifies as one of the low crime Wisconsin towns with active police presence and community safety efforts.
• Ideal For: Retirees and families valuing outdoor water activities within a low-crime setting.
• Known For: Historic downtown with cultural festivals and lakefront parks.

Port Washington combines natural beauty with reliable safety, making it a top choice among Wisconsin’s safest places to live.

6. Sheboygan Falls

Sheboygan Falls is a small, friendly town known for its close community and rich local heritage east of Sheboygan city.

• Population: ~7,700 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$250,000
• Median Rent: ~$900/month
• Median Household Income: ~$60,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Classic Midwest seasonal weather with cold, snowy winters and warm summers.
• Economy and Jobs: Manufacturing, service industries, and local entrepreneurship create employment opportunities.
• Educational Opportunities: Good public schools serve residents; nearby higher education options available.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Among the Wisconsin safest cities, Sheboygan Falls features very low crime rates and community involvement in public safety.
• Ideal For: Families and retirees wanting a stable, secure living environment.
• Known For: Beautiful parks and an engaged local community.

Sheboygan Falls’ low crime and welcoming culture ensure a secure place to call home.

7. Cedarburg

Known for its historic downtown and strong arts community, Cedarburg is a picturesque town north of Milwaukee with a high quality of life.

• Population: ~11,500 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$350,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,200/month
• Median Household Income: ~$85,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Cold winters and pleasant summers typical of southeastern Wisconsin.
• Economy and Jobs: Retail, services, and tourism form the backbone of the economy with proximity to Milwaukee’s job market.
• Educational Opportunities: Well-regarded public and private schools; access to Milwaukee-area colleges.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Cedarburg is one of the low crime Wisconsin towns with strong policing efforts and community vigilance.
• Ideal For: Families, professionals, and retirees valuing arts and culture along with safety.
• Known For: Historic landmarks, festivals, and vibrant community arts.

Cedarburg successfully blends safety with culture and community engagement.

8. Kohler

Kohler offers a uniquely planned village atmosphere known for its world-famous resort and luxury lifestyle in eastern Wisconsin.

• Population: ~2,200 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$400,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,400/month
• Median Household Income: ~$100,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Typical Wisconsin seasons with lake-influenced moderate weather.
• Economy and Jobs: Dominated by hospitality, manufacturing, and service industries.
• Educational Opportunities: Quality schools with nearby technical and university options.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Minimal crime rates due to active local police and affluent socioeconomic environment.
• Ideal For: Affluent families and retirees seeking resort-style living with top-notch safety.
• Known For: The Kohler Company, golf courses, and luxury resorts.

Kohler’s strong safety combined with upscale amenities make it a premier best city in Wisconsin for safety.

9. Brookfield

A Milwaukee suburb, Brookfield offers sprawling neighborhoods, excellent schools, and strong community programs.

• Population: ~40,000 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$370,000
• Median Rent: ~$1,300/month
• Median Household Income: ~$90,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Four-season climate with snowy winters and warm summers.
• Economy and Jobs: Robust retail, services, and professional sectors near Milwaukee.
• Educational Opportunities: Top-rated public schools and private institutions with diverse educational options.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Brookfield is consistently ranked among the Wisconsin safest cities thanks to comprehensive policing and neighborhood programs.
• Ideal For: Families wanting suburban safety with city proximity.
• Known For: Shopping centers, parks, and community services.

Brookfield offers a safe, convenient suburban lifestyle suitable for families and retirees alike.

10. Milton Town

Milton Town exemplifies quiet rural life with a very low crime profile and strong community values in southern Wisconsin.

• Population: ~5,000 residents
• Median Home Price: ~$230,000
• Median Rent: ~$850/month
• Median Household Income: ~$65,000
• Local Weather and Climate: Typical of rural Wisconsin with cold winters and warm summers perfect for outdoor activities.
• Economy and Jobs: Local agriculture, manufacturing, and small business employment form the basis of the economy.
• Educational Opportunities: Quality public schools available; proximity to higher education in Janesville.
• Safety and Crime Statistics: Milton Town is noted for extremely low property and violent crime rates, bolstered by close-knit community vigilance.
• Ideal For: Families and retirees seeking affordable, rural, and extremely safe living.
• Known For: Strong community spirit and rural tranquility.

Milton Town is a standout as a low crime Wisconsin town with excellent safety and quiet country charm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes a city one of the safest places to live in Wisconsin?

A combination of consistently low violent and property crime rates along with strong community participation and effective local law enforcement define the safest places in Wisconsin. The presence of neighborhood watch programs and police-community partnerships further boost safety.

Are the safest cities in Wisconsin more expensive to live in?

Costs vary widely. Some safe small towns like Milton Town and Sheboygan Falls offer affordable housing, while suburbs like Brookfield and Kohler have higher median home prices. Safety does not always equal high cost but often correlates with community resources.

How do crime rates in Wisconsin compare to national averages?

Wisconsin’s overall crime rates are generally below national averages. Many of its cities rank among the safest nationally. Trends show steady improvement in safety across the state, making Wisconsin a favorable place for secure living.

What role do local governments play in maintaining safety?

Local governments fund police departments, community safety initiatives, and emergency services infrastructure. They enact policies and partner with residents to create environments that deter crime and promote security.

Are these safe cities suitable for retirees as well as families?

Yes. Most of these cities offer amenities and tranquil atmospheres ideal for retirees, along with the schools, parks, and activities that families need. Their safety programs serve all age groups effectively.

How can I verify crime statistics for cities in Wisconsin on my own?

Use resources like the FBI Crime Data Explorer, local police department websites, reputable sites like SafeWise and SafeHome.org, and community reviews on Niche.com for up-to-date and reliable crime data.

Conclusion

Identifying the 10 safest places to live in Wisconsin is essential for ensuring peace of mind and a good quality of life. The featured towns and cities each provide some of the state’s lowest crime rates and strongest safety initiatives. These Wisconsin safest cities are excellent choices for families, retirees, and anyone prioritizing security.

As you make your decision, consider all safety-related factors alongside housing costs, amenities, and lifestyle preferences. Review the detailed profiles to find a safe community that truly fits your needs.

Whether you seek a small rural town like Milton or a vibrant suburb like Brookfield, these best cities in Wisconsin for safety offer dependable, secure environments to call home in 2025.