Dorchester, WI
Population 818 · Wisconsin
About Dorchester, WI
Dorchester is a small community located in Wisconsin with a population of 818 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $54,750 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.4 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 Dorchester features a median home value of $142,000, which is 42% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Dorchester one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $821, 29% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 345 total housing units, 59% are owner-occupied (184 units) and 41% are renter-occupied (130 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Dorchester shows an unemployment rate of 3.3%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 14.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Dorchester have an average one-way commute time of 17.1 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
10.2% of Dorchester 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 11.7% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 2.7% Asian residents, with 6.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Dorchester, WI
Compared to national averages, Dorchester has a median household income of $54,750 (27% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $142,000, which is 42% below the national median. Monthly rent at $821 is 29% below the US average of $1,163. Within Wisconsin, Dorchester's income is 25% below the state average of $72,579, and home values are 31% below the state median of $205,802.
Why Live in Dorchester, WI?
Dorchester offers affordable housing with a median home value of $142,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $821/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.3%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 17.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($54,750) that falls below the national average. However, Dorchester’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Dorchester has a population of 818 with a median age of 33.4 years. Compare Dorchester with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Wisconsin.
Similar Cities Near Dorchester
Cities in Wisconsin with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balsam Lake | 819 | $48,468 | $188,600 | Compare |
| Chenequa | 817 | $250,001 | $1,486,100 | Compare |
| Milltown | 817 | $37,500 | $114,200 | Compare |
| Lone Rock | 821 | $55,417 | $111,400 | Compare |
| Reeseville | 826 | $65,938 | $157,700 | Compare |
| Auburndale | 807 | $80,407 | $217,700 | Compare |
| Pittsville | 829 | $59,773 | $117,300 | Compare |
| Lake Arrowhead | 832 | $83,125 | $305,200 | 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.
Compare Dorchester With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Dorchester
What is the population of Dorchester, WI?
The population of Dorchester, WI is 818 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 Dorchester?
The median household income in Dorchester, WI is $54,750 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Dorchester?
The median home value in Dorchester, WI is $142,000, which is 42% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Dorchester?
The median monthly rent in Dorchester, WI is $821, which is 29% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Dorchester?
The unemployment rate in Dorchester, WI is 3.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Dorchester, WI a good place to live?
Dorchester offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 818 and a median age of 33.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Dorchester, WI?
10.2% of residents in Dorchester 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 Dorchester?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Dorchester, WI: median home value is $142,000 (42% below national), median rent is $821/month, and median household income is $54,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Dorchester?
The poverty rate in Dorchester, WI is 14.1%, 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 Dorchester, WI?
Dorchester's population is 11.7% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 2.7% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 6.0% of residents are foreign-born.