French Island, WI
Population 4,235 · Wisconsin
About French Island, WI
French Island is a small town located in Wisconsin with a population of 4,235 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $59,462 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 47.3 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 French Island features a median home value of $198,200, which is 19% below the national median of $244,900. This positions French Island in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $983, 15% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,048 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (1,487 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (453 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in French Island shows an unemployment rate of 10.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in French Island have an average one-way commute time of 15.5 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
26.8% of French Island 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 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 3.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in French Island, WI
Compared to national averages, French Island has a median household income of $59,462 (21% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $198,200, which is 19% below the national median. Monthly rent at $983 is 15% below the US average of $1,163. Within Wisconsin, French Island's income is 18% below the state average of $72,579, and home values are 4% below the state median of $205,802.
Why Live in French Island, WI?
French Island offers affordable housing with a median home value of $198,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $983/month, and short commute times averaging just 15.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($59,462) that falls below the national average. However, French Island’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
French Island has a population of 4,235 with a median age of 47.3 years. Compare French Island with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Wisconsin.
Similar Cities Near French Island
Cities in Wisconsin with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saukville | 4,268 | $79,148 | $286,400 | Compare |
| Mauston | 4,280 | $60,174 | $135,600 | Compare |
| Baldwin | 4,313 | $76,675 | $252,000 | Compare |
| Medford | 4,331 | $53,173 | $175,300 | Compare |
| Kewaskum | 4,367 | $103,472 | $286,800 | Compare |
| Prescott | 4,376 | $82,730 | $282,100 | Compare |
| Prairie du Sac | 4,385 | $92,672 | $319,200 | Compare |
| Bayside | 4,398 | $144,500 | $419,400 | 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 French Island With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about French Island
What is the population of French Island, WI?
The population of French Island, WI is 4,235 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Wisconsin.
What is the median household income in French Island?
The median household income in French Island, WI is $59,462 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in French Island?
The median home value in French Island, WI is $198,200, which is 19% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in French Island?
The median monthly rent in French Island, WI is $983, which is 15% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in French Island?
The unemployment rate in French Island, WI is 10.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is French Island, WI a good place to live?
French Island offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,235 and a median age of 47.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is French Island, WI?
26.8% of residents in French Island 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 French Island?
Key cost-of-living indicators for French Island, WI: median home value is $198,200 (19% below national), median rent is $983/month, and median household income is $59,462. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in French Island?
The poverty rate in French Island, WI is 14.2%, 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 French Island, WI?
French Island's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 1.2% two or more races. 3.3% of residents are foreign-born.