Lake Ripley, WI
Population 1,972 · Wisconsin
About Lake Ripley, WI
Lake Ripley is a small town located in Wisconsin with a population of 1,972 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $115,516 per year, which is 54% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 51.5 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 Lake Ripley features a median home value of $351,300, which is 43% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Lake Ripley in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $804, 31% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 977 total housing units, 85% are owner-occupied (713 units) and 15% are renter-occupied (121 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Lake Ripley shows an unemployment rate of 8.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 13.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Lake Ripley have an average one-way commute time of 26.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
51.4% of Lake Ripley residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 1.9% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 1.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How Lake Ripley Ranks in Wisconsin
Cost of Living in Lake Ripley, WI
Compared to national averages, Lake Ripley has a median household income of $115,516 (54% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $351,300, which is 43% above the national median. Monthly rent at $804 is 31% below the US average of $1,163. Within Wisconsin, Lake Ripley's income is 59% above the state average of $72,579, and home values are 71% above the state median of $205,802.
Why Live in Lake Ripley, WI?
Lake Ripley offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $115,516, well above the national average, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $804/month, and a well-educated community where 51.4% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Lake Ripley has a population of 1,972 with a median age of 51.5 years. Compare Lake Ripley with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Wisconsin.
Similar Cities Near Lake Ripley
Cities in Wisconsin with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Redgranite | 1,977 | $65,263 | $105,700 | Compare |
| Roberts | 1,981 | $92,105 | $270,300 | Compare |
| Butler | 2,003 | $55,577 | $216,300 | Compare |
| Eagle | 2,016 | $109,545 | $310,100 | Compare |
| Chetek | 2,017 | $59,554 | $156,500 | Compare |
| Schofield | 2,020 | $65,478 | $144,200 | Compare |
| Clinton | 2,034 | $68,571 | $172,300 | Compare |
| Palmyra | 2,042 | $80,709 | $194,200 | 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 Lake Ripley With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Ripley
What is the population of Lake Ripley, WI?
The population of Lake Ripley, WI is 1,972 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 Lake Ripley?
The median household income in Lake Ripley, WI is $115,516 per year, which is 54% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Lake Ripley?
The median home value in Lake Ripley, WI is $351,300, which is 43% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Lake Ripley?
The median monthly rent in Lake Ripley, WI is $804, which is 31% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Lake Ripley?
The unemployment rate in Lake Ripley, WI is 8.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Lake Ripley, WI a good place to live?
Lake Ripley offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,972 and a median age of 51.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Lake Ripley, WI?
51.4% of residents in Lake Ripley 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 Lake Ripley?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Lake Ripley, WI: median home value is $351,300 (43% above national), median rent is $804/month, and median household income is $115,516. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Lake Ripley?
The poverty rate in Lake Ripley, WI is 13.2%, 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 Lake Ripley, WI?
Lake Ripley's population is 1.9% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 1.7% two or more races. 1.1% of residents are foreign-born.