Blue River, WI
Population 484 · Wisconsin
About Blue River, WI
Blue River is a small community located in Wisconsin with a population of 484 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $56,830 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.2 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Blue River features a median home value of $123,800, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Blue River one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $685, 41% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 271 total housing units, 84% are owner-occupied (203 units) and 16% are renter-occupied (38 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Blue River shows an unemployment rate of 0.5%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 9.4%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Blue River have an average one-way commute time of 21.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
6.2% of Blue River residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.3% Asian residents, with 0.8% of the population being foreign-born.
How Blue River Ranks in Wisconsin
Cost of Living in Blue River, WI
Compared to national averages, Blue River has a median household income of $56,830 (24% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $123,800, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $685 is 41% below the US average of $1,163. Within Wisconsin, Blue River's income is 22% below the state average of $72,579, and home values are 40% below the state median of $205,802.
Why Live in Blue River, WI?
Blue River offers affordable housing with a median home value of $123,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $685/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.5%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 9.4%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 21.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($56,830) that falls below the national average. However, Blue River’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Blue River has a population of 484 with a median age of 42.2 years. Compare Blue River with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Wisconsin.
Similar Cities Near Blue River
Cities in Wisconsin with a similar population size.
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.
Compare Blue River With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Blue River
What is the population of Blue River, WI?
The population of Blue River, WI is 484 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Wisconsin.
What is the median household income in Blue River?
The median household income in Blue River, WI is $56,830 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Blue River?
The median home value in Blue River, WI is $123,800, which is 49% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Blue River?
The median monthly rent in Blue River, WI is $685, which is 41% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Blue River?
The unemployment rate in Blue River, WI is 0.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Blue River, WI a good place to live?
Blue River offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 484 and a median age of 42.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Blue River, WI?
6.2% of residents in Blue River aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Blue River?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Blue River, WI: median home value is $123,800 (49% below national), median rent is $685/month, and median household income is $56,830. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Blue River?
The poverty rate in Blue River, WI is 9.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Blue River, WI?
Blue River's population is 0.0% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.3% Asian, and 1.0% two or more races. 0.8% of residents are foreign-born.