Wisconsin's Hidden Gems Shine in Small City Rankings

Wisconsin is making waves in the small city scene, and it's not just luck. A recent study put two of its cities in the top five spots, showing that the state is a hotspot for great small-town living. Brookfield and Appleton are the stars, proving that good things come in small packages.

Brookfield: A Suburban Gem

Brookfield, a suburb of Milwaukee, is a standout. With a population of just under 6,500, it boasts an impressive unemployment rate of only 3% and a poverty rate that's equally low. The city's homeownership rate is something other cities can only dream of, and the median credit score is a solid 782. But it's not just about the numbers. Brookfield is also one of the healthiest cities in the nation, with over 98% of residents insured and a low percentage reporting poor health. Add in a violent crime rate that's among the lowest in the country, and you've got a small-town paradise.

Appleton: Another Wisconsin Jewel

Appleton, another Wisconsin gem, isn't far behind. It claimed the number five spot in the rankings, showing that Wisconsin is a powerhouse when it comes to small-town living. Both Brookfield and Appleton are in the top 1 percent of small cities in America, which is no small feat.

The Study Behind the Rankings

The study that put these cities on the map wasn't just a quick glance. It compared over 1,300 U.S. cities with populations between 25,000 and 100,000. They looked at 45 key indicators of livability, from housing costs and school quality to the number of restaurants per capita. So, when these cities rank high, it's not just a guess—it's a fact.

Beyond Wisconsin: Indiana's Success

But it's not just Wisconsin that's making waves. Indiana also had two cities in the top five, with Carmel taking the number one spot and Fishers coming in at number four. This shows that great small towns aren't just a Wisconsin thing—they're happening all over the country.