Independence, WI
Population 1,477 · Wisconsin
About Independence, WI
Independence is a small town located in Wisconsin with a population of 1,477 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $54,967 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.5 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 Independence features a median home value of $152,600, which is 38% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Independence in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $856, 26% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 682 total housing units, 47% are owner-occupied (299 units) and 53% are renter-occupied (344 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Independence shows an unemployment rate of 4.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 12.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Independence have an average one-way commute time of 20.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.6% of Independence 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 23.4% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 6.4% Black or African American, and 0.5% Asian residents, with 10.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Independence, WI
Compared to national averages, Independence has a median household income of $54,967 (27% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $152,600, which is 38% below the national median. Monthly rent at $856 is 26% below the US average of $1,163. Within Wisconsin, Independence's income is 24% below the state average of $72,579, and home values are 26% below the state median of $205,802.
Why Live in Independence, WI?
Independence offers affordable housing with a median home value of $152,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $856/month, and short commute times averaging just 20.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($54,967) that falls below the national average. However, Independence’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Independence has a population of 1,477 with a median age of 35.5 years. Compare Independence with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Wisconsin.
Similar Cities Near Independence
Cities in Wisconsin with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legend Lake | 1,478 | $69,178 | $116,200 | Compare |
| Lannon | 1,475 | $79,191 | $255,900 | Compare |
| King | 1,474 | $72,500 | $174,200 | Compare |
| Mishicot | 1,470 | $68,438 | $139,900 | Compare |
| Barneveld | 1,485 | $112,375 | $264,400 | Compare |
| Keshena | 1,487 | $41,375 | $112,000 | Compare |
| Bonduel | 1,492 | $59,917 | $160,900 | Compare |
| West Baraboo | 1,493 | $58,889 | $212,500 | 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 Independence With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Independence
What is the population of Independence, WI?
The population of Independence, WI is 1,477 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 Independence?
The median household income in Independence, WI is $54,967 per year, which is 27% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Independence?
The median home value in Independence, WI is $152,600, which is 38% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Independence?
The median monthly rent in Independence, WI is $856, which is 26% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Independence?
The unemployment rate in Independence, WI is 4.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Independence, WI a good place to live?
Independence offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,477 and a median age of 35.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Independence, WI?
12.6% of residents in Independence 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 Independence?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Independence, WI: median home value is $152,600 (38% below national), median rent is $856/month, and median household income is $54,967. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Independence?
The poverty rate in Independence, WI is 12.9%, 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 Independence, WI?
Independence's population is 23.4% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 6.4% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, and 5.3% two or more races. 10.8% of residents are foreign-born.