Bruce, WI
Population 851 · Wisconsin
About Bruce, WI
Bruce is a small community located in Wisconsin with a population of 851 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $44,688 per year, which is 41% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 32 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Bruce features a median home value of $100,000, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Bruce one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $597, 49% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 372 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (216 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (101 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Bruce shows an unemployment rate of 6.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 15.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Bruce have an average one-way commute time of 38.9 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
6.0% of Bruce 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 2.4% White, 4.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 3.4% Asian residents, with 3.5% of the population being foreign-born.
How Bruce Ranks in Wisconsin
Cost of Living in Bruce, WI
Compared to national averages, Bruce has a median household income of $44,688 (41% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $100,000, which is 59% below the national median. Monthly rent at $597 is 49% below the US average of $1,163. Within Wisconsin, Bruce's income is 38% below the state average of $72,579, and home values are 51% below the state median of $205,802.
Why Live in Bruce, WI?
Bruce offers affordable housing with a median home value of $100,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $597/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($44,688) that falls below the national average. However, Bruce’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Bruce has a population of 851 with a median age of 32 years. Compare Bruce with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Wisconsin.
Similar Cities Near Bruce
Cities in Wisconsin with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coon Valley | 853 | $64,375 | $182,300 | Compare |
| Coleman | 846 | $49,545 | $152,600 | Compare |
| Stoddard | 860 | $61,477 | $169,700 | Compare |
| Lake Arrowhead | 832 | $83,125 | $305,200 | Compare |
| Valders | 871 | $71,964 | $149,600 | Compare |
| Blue Mounds | 873 | $74,583 | $322,900 | Compare |
| Pittsville | 829 | $59,773 | $117,300 | Compare |
| Argyle | 875 | $57,424 | $125,600 | 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.
Compare Bruce With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Bruce
What is the population of Bruce, WI?
The population of Bruce, WI is 851 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 Bruce?
The median household income in Bruce, WI is $44,688 per year, which is 41% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Bruce?
The median home value in Bruce, WI is $100,000, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Bruce?
The median monthly rent in Bruce, WI is $597, which is 49% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Bruce?
The unemployment rate in Bruce, WI is 6.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Bruce, WI a good place to live?
Bruce offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 851 and a median age of 32, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Bruce, WI?
6.0% of residents in Bruce 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 Bruce?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Bruce, WI: median home value is $100,000 (59% below national), median rent is $597/month, and median household income is $44,688. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Bruce?
The poverty rate in Bruce, WI is 15.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Bruce, WI?
Bruce's population is 2.4% White, 4.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 3.4% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.5% of residents are foreign-born.