DeForest, WI
Population 10,853 · Wisconsin
About DeForest, WI
DeForest is a mid-sized city located in Wisconsin with a population of 10,853 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $106,223 per year, which is 41% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.8 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in DeForest features a median home value of $337,500, which is 38% above the national median of $244,900. This positions DeForest in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,381, 19% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 4,435 total housing units, 76% are owner-occupied (3,249 units) and 24% are renter-occupied (1,019 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in DeForest shows an unemployment rate of 2.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 7.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in DeForest have an average one-way commute time of 25.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
40.7% of DeForest residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 6.1% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 1.9% Black or African American, and 1.3% Asian residents, with 3.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in DeForest, WI
Compared to national averages, DeForest has a median household income of $106,223 (41% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $337,500, which is 38% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,381 is 19% above the US average of $1,163. Within Wisconsin, DeForest's income is 46% above the state average of $72,579, and home values are 64% above the state median of $205,802.
Why Live in DeForest, WI?
DeForest offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $106,223, well above the national average, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.0%, and a well-educated community where 40.7% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 7.0%, better than the national average.
DeForest has a population of 10,853 with a median age of 38.8 years. Compare DeForest with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Wisconsin.
Similar Cities Near DeForest
Cities in Wisconsin with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burlington | 11,021 | $81,658 | $268,300 | Compare |
| Holmen | 11,027 | $77,083 | $262,600 | Compare |
| Marinette | 11,060 | $57,461 | $111,600 | Compare |
| Monroe | 10,568 | $67,621 | $184,400 | Compare |
| Two Rivers | 11,224 | $58,716 | $121,800 | Compare |
| Waupun | 11,244 | $66,931 | $167,700 | Compare |
| Hobart | 10,418 | $111,918 | $363,500 | Compare |
| Portage | 10,374 | $62,785 | $187,300 | 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 DeForest With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about DeForest
What is the population of DeForest, WI?
The population of DeForest, WI is 10,853 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Wisconsin.
What is the median household income in DeForest?
The median household income in DeForest, WI is $106,223 per year, which is 41% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in DeForest?
The median home value in DeForest, WI is $337,500, which is 38% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in DeForest?
The median monthly rent in DeForest, WI is $1,381, which is 19% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in DeForest?
The unemployment rate in DeForest, WI is 2.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is DeForest, WI a good place to live?
DeForest offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 10,853 and a median age of 38.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is DeForest, WI?
40.7% of residents in DeForest aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in DeForest?
Key cost-of-living indicators for DeForest, WI: median home value is $337,500 (38% above national), median rent is $1,381/month, and median household income is $106,223. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in DeForest?
The poverty rate in DeForest, WI is 7.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is DeForest, WI?
DeForest's population is 6.1% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 1.9% Black or African American, 1.3% Asian, and 2.0% two or more races. 3.8% of residents are foreign-born.