Appleton, WI
Population 74,873 · Wisconsin
About Appleton, WI
Appleton is a mid-sized city in Wisconsin with a population of 74,873 residents. The median household income is $77,450 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Appleton is 36.9 years.
Housing in Appleton has a median home value of $211,500 and median monthly rent of $957. Of the 31,999 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 20,572 owner-occupied and 10,288 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Appleton is 3.9% and the poverty rate is 8.5%. 37.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 19.4 minutes.
How Appleton Ranks in Wisconsin
Cost of Living in Appleton, WI
Compared to national averages, Appleton has a median household income of $77,450 (3% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $211,500, which is 14% below the national median. Monthly rent at $957 is 18% below the US average of $1,163. Within Wisconsin, Appleton's income is 7% above the state average of $72,579, and home values are 3% above the state median of $205,802.
Why Live in Appleton, WI?
Appleton offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $77,450, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $211,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $957/month. Additionally, the city features a well-educated community where 37.0% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 8.5%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 19.4 minutes.
Appleton has a population of 74,873 with a median age of 36.9 years. Compare Appleton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Wisconsin.
Similar Cities Near Appleton
Cities in Wisconsin with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Racine | 77,155 | $55,705 | $158,100 | Compare |
| Eau Claire | 69,274 | $65,369 | $228,000 | Compare |
| Oshkosh | 66,247 | $61,929 | $168,400 | Compare |
| Janesville | 65,813 | $71,664 | $209,700 | Compare |
| West Allis | 59,588 | $69,685 | $191,700 | Compare |
| La Crosse | 51,791 | $53,803 | $196,600 | Compare |
| Kenosha | 99,147 | $68,532 | $210,500 | Compare |
| Sheboygan | 49,812 | $62,953 | $165,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Wisconsin
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Appleton
What is the population of Appleton, WI?
The population of Appleton, WI is 74,873 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Appleton?
The median household income in Appleton, WI is $77,450 per year.
What is the median home value in Appleton?
The median home value in Appleton, WI is $211,500.
What is the average rent in Appleton?
The median monthly rent in Appleton, WI is $957.
What is the unemployment rate in Appleton?
The unemployment rate in Appleton, WI is 3.9%.