Markesan, WI
Population 1,276 · Wisconsin
About Markesan, WI
Markesan is a small town located in Wisconsin with a population of 1,276 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $61,250 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 50 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 Markesan features a median home value of $147,800, which is 40% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Markesan in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $479, 59% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 626 total housing units, 75% are owner-occupied (404 units) and 25% are renter-occupied (134 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Markesan shows an unemployment rate of 4.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 21.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Markesan have an average one-way commute time of 24.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.7% of Markesan 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 4.9% White, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 5.9% Asian residents, with 2.7% of the population being foreign-born.
How Markesan Ranks in Wisconsin
Cost of Living in Markesan, WI
Compared to national averages, Markesan has a median household income of $61,250 (18% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $147,800, which is 40% below the national median. Monthly rent at $479 is 59% below the US average of $1,163. Within Wisconsin, Markesan's income is 16% below the state average of $72,579, and home values are 28% below the state median of $205,802.
Why Live in Markesan, WI?
Markesan offers affordable housing with a median home value of $147,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $479/month, and short commute times averaging just 24.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($61,250) that falls below the national average. However, Markesan’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Markesan has a population of 1,276 with a median age of 50 years. Compare Markesan with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Wisconsin.
Similar Cities Near Markesan
Cities in Wisconsin with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nashotah | 1,272 | $143,750 | $449,400 | Compare |
| Westfield | 1,272 | $56,518 | $140,500 | Compare |
| Newburg | 1,285 | $71,786 | $242,500 | Compare |
| Black Creek | 1,263 | $63,894 | $173,800 | Compare |
| Spring Valley | 1,260 | $65,893 | $191,500 | Compare |
| Cashton | 1,243 | $68,594 | $145,400 | Compare |
| Shullsburg | 1,310 | $58,500 | $130,700 | Compare |
| Big Bend | 1,311 | $136,042 | $293,900 | 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 Markesan With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Markesan
What is the population of Markesan, WI?
The population of Markesan, WI is 1,276 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 Markesan?
The median household income in Markesan, WI is $61,250 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Markesan?
The median home value in Markesan, WI is $147,800, which is 40% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Markesan?
The median monthly rent in Markesan, WI is $479, which is 59% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Markesan?
The unemployment rate in Markesan, 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 Markesan, WI a good place to live?
Markesan offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,276 and a median age of 50, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Markesan, WI?
18.7% of residents in Markesan 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 Markesan?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Markesan, WI: median home value is $147,800 (40% below national), median rent is $479/month, and median household income is $61,250. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Markesan?
The poverty rate in Markesan, WI is 21.5%, 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 Markesan, WI?
Markesan's population is 4.9% White, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 5.9% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 2.7% of residents are foreign-born.