Rib Lake, WI
Population 878 · Wisconsin
About Rib Lake, WI
Rib Lake is a small community located in Wisconsin with a population of 878 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $55,813 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.3 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 Rib Lake features a median home value of $99,300, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Rib Lake one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $707, 39% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 451 total housing units, 67% are owner-occupied (273 units) and 33% are renter-occupied (132 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Rib Lake shows an unemployment rate of 1.1%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 15.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Rib Lake have an average one-way commute time of 23 minutes.
Education & Demographics
22.3% of Rib Lake 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 4.4% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 2.1% Asian residents, with 4.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Rib Lake, WI
Compared to national averages, Rib Lake has a median household income of $55,813 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $99,300, which is 59% below the national median. Monthly rent at $707 is 39% below the US average of $1,163. Within Wisconsin, Rib Lake's income is 23% below the state average of $72,579, and home values are 52% below the state median of $205,802.
Why Live in Rib Lake, WI?
Rib Lake offers affordable housing with a median home value of $99,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $707/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.1%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 23 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,813) that falls below the national average. However, Rib Lake’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Rib Lake has a population of 878 with a median age of 45.3 years. Compare Rib Lake with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Wisconsin.
Similar Cities Near Rib Lake
Cities in Wisconsin with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Footville | 876 | $57,063 | $150,400 | Compare |
| Argyle | 875 | $57,424 | $125,600 | Compare |
| St. Nazianz | 881 | $56,875 | $128,400 | Compare |
| Blue Mounds | 873 | $74,583 | $322,900 | Compare |
| Owen | 884 | $58,611 | $125,500 | Compare |
| Valders | 871 | $71,964 | $149,600 | Compare |
| Arena | 886 | $67,917 | $190,000 | Compare |
| Lake Nebagamon | 891 | $75,341 | $278,300 | 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 Rib Lake With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Rib Lake
What is the population of Rib Lake, WI?
The population of Rib Lake, WI is 878 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 Rib Lake?
The median household income in Rib Lake, WI is $55,813 per year, which is 26% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Rib Lake?
The median home value in Rib Lake, WI is $99,300, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Rib Lake?
The median monthly rent in Rib Lake, WI is $707, which is 39% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Rib Lake?
The unemployment rate in Rib Lake, WI is 1.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Rib Lake, WI a good place to live?
Rib Lake offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 878 and a median age of 45.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Rib Lake, WI?
22.3% of residents in Rib Lake 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 Rib Lake?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Rib Lake, WI: median home value is $99,300 (59% below national), median rent is $707/month, and median household income is $55,813. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Rib Lake?
The poverty rate in Rib Lake, WI is 15.2%, 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 Rib Lake, WI?
Rib Lake's population is 4.4% White, 0.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 2.1% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 4.4% of residents are foreign-born.