$192,228Average Value$122Average Price per Sq Ft19Homes For Sale
A former logging town on the banks of the Wisconsin River
In the century and a half since the lumber industry thrived in Merrill, some things have remained constant. Main Street is still lined with small businesses, the population holds at less than 10,000 and the Lincoln County Courthouse towers nearly 200 feet above it all. The Wisconsin River, bordered by walking trails and boat ramps, allows for year-round recreation, while annual fairs, festivals and rodeos bring community members together. Highways connect Merrill to the nearby city of Wausau, which is home to 40,000 people and more employment opportunities about 20 miles south past orchards, horseback riding trails and gun clubs.
Merrill's historic Lincoln County Courthouse towers over Main Street.
The Wisconsin River allows for year-round recreation in Merrill.
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Sale prices below the national median and backyard gardens
The city's oldest properties date back to the late 19th century and are situated on numbered streets branching off from the central business district. Sidewalks are shaded by mature trees, and some homes are decorated with Victorian molding. Prospective buyers will also find pockets of midcentury homes and single-family options built in the late 1990s, and there are several multi-acre undeveloped lots south of the river. According to Laurie Ollhoff, library director at the T.B. Scott Free Library, "We have a lot of gardeners and home farmers that have their own gardens in their backyard. That tells you a little bit about the community: people here like to be self-sufficient and grow their own vegetables." The median sales price hovers around $175,000, which is just a fraction of the national median.
Prospective buyers in Merrill will find midcentury homes built in the late 1990s.
Colorful Victorian homes add charm to Merrill's neighborhood streets.
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Manufacturing jobs and Wausau 20 miles south
It's common for today's residents to work in manufacturing or product wholesale; there are several warehouses and a vocational training facility near Merrill Municipal Airport. Wasau, Merrill's larger neighbor, can be reached via U.S. Route 51 and is home to additional manufacturing jobs and an increasing number of IT positions. Public transportation is limited in Lincoln County, and the Central Wisconsin Airport in Mosinee offers commercial flights to Chicago O'Hare and Minneapolis-St. Paul. Medical care is accessible at Aspirus Merrill Hospital, which is also a major local employer. Crime has slightly increased in Merrill since 2020, and most incidents are non-violent. Property crime rates are slightly higher than state averages.
Merrill Area Public Schools and MAPS Community Education classes
Students are incorporated into the Merrill Area Public Schools system, which earns an overall B-plus grade from Niche. Two elementary schools feed into one middle school and one high school, and the district is also home to MAPS Community Education. Courses — which meet at the high school — are open to the public for a fee and include everything from jelly-making to beekeeping and foraging. Public resources are also available through the local library. "We also provide adult programming like technical assistance and technical training," says Ollhoff, adding, "We also provide a monthly movie for seniors, and they get their own free popcorn. That's always a popular day of the month."
Merrill High School is a public school with about 803 students in grades 9-12.
Prairie River Middle School is a public school with a student-teacher ratio of 13 to 1.
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Year-round recreation beside the Wisconsin River
Recreation is concentrated along the Wisconsin River and in rural areas on the outskirts of the city, where residents will find horse trails and public hunting grounds. Closer to town, canoes and kayaks launch from the boat ramp in Riverside Park, where there's also a public-use golf course. Fishermen can rent out poles from the public library and cast off from Prairie Trails Park. Historical markers are placed along the Riverbend Trail, providing information on everything from early Chippewa settlements to "The Giant Spider Invasion," a 1975 movie largely based in Merrill; the city hopes to expand the route all the way to Wausau in coming years. During single-digit winters, when several inches of snow collect at a time, residents bundle up to go sledding or ice skating in Lions Park and snowshoeing outside the Merrill Area Recreation Complex, also known as the MARC/Smith Center. "We have a lot of hiking trails in the area, and we provide snowshoeing equipment for our patrons and cross-country skis," says Ollhoff, speaking about the equipment available for rent from the library. The Bierman Family Aquatic Center's outdoor pool is open June through August when temperatures rarely exceed 80 degrees and evenings drop down into the 50s.
Residents of Merrill can play 18 holes at Merrill Public Golf Club.
Merrill's residents can enjoy the disc golf course at Riverside Park.
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Summertime fairs, rodeos and concerts
The Lincoln County Fair comes to the city in August. There's a demolition derby, live music and a livestock pavilion, and the festival grounds also host Merrill's Food Truck-A-Palooza each May. The Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo is scheduled over a weekend in June, where families can watch steer wrestling, bull riding and the Rodeo Queen Competition from the comfort of the bleachers. There's free live music at the Normal Park gazebo throughout the summer and fireworks at the MARC around the Fourth of July.
Shopping and dining north of the river
Merrill's central business district is located to the north of the river, and retail options are primarily concentrated along Main Street, 1st Street and Central Avenue. Stores sell discount clothes and antiques, auto parts and hardware, and there's a small selection of pizza joints and greasy spoons. Chip's Hamburgers of Merrill has been a drive-thru staple in the city since the 1960s, and Hugo's Pizza is popular for eat-in and grab-and-go. The Cosmo Theatre, which screens new releases, is also located in Merrill's historic downtown.
Chips Hamburgers is a locally owned burger joint and has been serving Merrill since 1969.
Catch the latest showing at the Cosmo Theatre in Merrill.
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Written By
Sara Caskey
Video By
Pasha Chichagov
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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On average, homes in Merrill, WI sell after 64 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Merrill, WI over the last 12 months is $195,000, up 15% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Start making memories at this wonderful property just outside the City of Merrill on State Rd 17! Whether it's a piece of recreational land you're looking for, or a building lot, this 13.42 acre parcel has so much potential. Heavily wooded with Spruce and Balsam on the north side, and a mix of tag alder, poplar and hardwoods with frontage on Barnes Creek. There are several trails through the lot
Beautifully modernized 4-Bedroom, 2-Bath Ranch home situated on nearly 6 acres divided across two lots. Enjoy the privacy of country living while being just minutes from town and highway access. Features include main-level laundry, wood fireplace, bonus room ideal for an office, workout room, relaxation station, or flex space. Large deck that wraparound the side, covered front porch, spacious
Brand-new and ready for its first owner, this 1-story home is proudly built by Wendorf Construction, combining exceptional craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and lasting quality. Offering 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, main-level laundry, and 1,710 finished square feet, this newly completed home is situated on approximately 0.40 acres in the desirable Tall Pines Subdivision within the City of
Welcome to your perfect family home! This beautifully remodeled 1,073-square-foot residence blends modern updates with a highly desirable, family-friendly location overlooking the scenic Wisconsin River. The move-in ready interior features a cozy and functional layout with 3 comfortable bedrooms, 1 full bath, and a stunning, completely updated kitchen. Outside, you can relax and enjoy the water
Set on 9.06 acres in a convenient location between Merrill and Medford along state Road 64, this unique property offers a blend of residential comfort, recreational space, and commercial potential. The 24' x 32' finished office or living quarters provide an idea setup for on-site living, a hunting basecamp, or weekend retreat, all surrounded by open land with room to expand, explore, or enjoy the
Charming 4 Bedroom Two Story home with approximately 1590 square feet of living space on a 0.19 acre lot. This property has much to offer inside and outside. Featuring plenty of storage, a 1+ car garage with canopy styled lean-to behind it, established gardens with perennial landscaping, and an outdoor fire pit area perfect for gathering with family and friends or sit back by yourself relaxing.
Opportunity on the Wisconsin River! Situated on just under 3.5 acres with 200+ feet of Wisconsin River frontage, this 1-story home with attic offers 4 bedrooms, 1 bath, and 1,602 total sq ft in a setting that is hard to find. The home needs significant work and is being presented honestly — this is more than a little TLC — but the location, land, and river frontage make it worth a look. Property
Set on 9.06 acres in a convenient location between Merrill and Medford along state Road 64, this unique property offers a blend of residential comfort, recreational space, and commercial potential. The 24' x 32' finished office or living quarters provide an idea setup for on-site living, a hunting basecamp, or weekend retreat, all surrounded by open land with room to expand, explore, or enjoy the
Welcome to this distinctive 1-story Craftsman-style home—a true showcase property tucked into the back of the cul-de-sac and offering a unique combination of character, thoughtful design, and modern finishes. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and an attached 2-car garage, this home offers exceptional space and functionality. From the custom cedar gables and barn-door accents to the
A RARE WISCONSIN RIVERFRONT OPPORTUNITY WITH HISTORY, SPACE & CHARACTER! Welcome to this exceptional Wisconsin Riverfront property offering approximately 148 feet of river frontage on a beautiful 2.095-acre lot in the city of Merrill! Rich in history and filled with character, this distinctive property was originally built in 1955 by renowned window manufacturing businessman Harry Hurd and later
Discover the perfect place to build your dream home on Lot #6 in Prairie River Savannah Subdivision! This beautiful 2.7-acre wooded lot is tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac on a blacktop road, offering privacy and peaceful country living while still being conveniently close to town. Enjoy the beauty of nature right in your backyard as the property borders the Prairie River, known for
12.7 wooded acres conveniently located on the south side of Merrill adjoining beautiful Gerbert Park. Many possibilities that may include multi lot development or that secluded spot for your dream home! Access on Smuth St or possible access from Bramble Way.
*The advertised monthly payment required includes: Rent, Our Resident Benefit Package, and Beagle's Tenant Liability Coverage of $300,000, and $10,000 in personal content coverage. If you choose to provide your own renter's insurance policy that meets our coverage requirements (including $300,000 in liability coverage), the rent & security deposit will be reduced by the Tenant Liability Coverage
When you call Webster Street home, you'll find yourself in a quiet setting enhanced with a variety of unique amenities. Our community offers two bedroom floor plans spaciously designed with comfort in mind. The professional, on-site management staff will assist you in meeting all of your needs.- Lease for a Year | Stay for a Decade
Luxury Apartments at an affordable price. Stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher. Heat, water, and trash included. Lawn care and snow removal provided. Stackable washer/dryer hookup. Located near Marshfield Clinic and Aspirus Hospital. LOCATED ON THE CITY BUS ROUTE.***LIMITED INCOME HOUSING***
Brand New Construction | 2 Bed / 1 Bath Duplex | Attached Heated Garage | Merrill, WI*The advertised monthly payment required includes: Rent, Our Resident Benefit Package, and Beagle's Tenant Liability Coverage of $300,000, and $10,000 in personal content coverage. If you choose to provide your own renter's insurance policy that meets our coverage requirements (including $300,000 in
2-bedroom, 1-bathroom lower-level duplex now available for rent. Washer and dryer included in unit. New carpet in living room and bedrooms. Water and sewer included in rent. Tenant pays all other utilities. Located in center area of Merrill. No cats. Dog considered with additional pet deposit and monthly fee.
2-bedroom, 1-bathroom lower-level duplex now available for rent. Washer and dryer included in unit. New carpet in living room and bedrooms. Water and sewer included in rent. Tenant pays all other utilities. Located in center area of Merrill. No cats. Dog considered with additional pet deposit and monthly fee.
The unit includes off-street parking for convenient vehicle access and a walk-out deck perfect for outdoor relaxation. Located close to downtown Merrill, the apartment provides easy access to nearby shops and services. A straightforward, well-located option for those seeking practical, accessible housing in Merrill.Pet Policy : Cats and dogs allowed - $50 a month per pet per
Easy, quiet living in Merrill meets comfort and space in this well-sized two-bedroom with an efficient, easy-to-navigate layout. Natural light fills the living area, giving you plenty of room to relax or set things up exactly how you want. Both bedrooms offer solid space, and there’s no shortage of storage with ample closet options throughout.The kitchen brings it all together with
Introducing the newly upcoming and updated side by side duplex in Merrill, WI, available for rent starting 11/1. This charming 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom unit features modern amenities such as aprilaire, forced air, central air conditioning for your comfort and washer and dryer included. Enjoy the convenience of access to the basement for laundry, as well as a detached 2-car garage and a paved
The unit features modern finishes and in-unit washer/dryer for added convenience. Parking includes a detached 1-car garage plus additional off-street spaces. Situated in a residential area of Merrill, this apartment offers a comfortable, updated living space with practical parking and laundry amenities.Pet Policy : None allowed Utility Info : None included Virtual
This bright and spacious two-bedroom apartment in Merrill offers a great mix of comfort and convenience in a solid location. With plenty of natural light throughout, the unit feels open and welcoming from the moment you walk in. Both bedrooms are well-sized, and you’ll find ample closet space to keep everything organized without feeling cramped.The kitchen is a standout feature, offering
The layout includes a dedicated dining room and an enclosed porch that expands usable living area. A basement/lower level provides storage options, while washer/dryer hookups add laundry convenience. The property also includes a 1-car detached garage. Ideal for those seeking functional, single-family living in Merrill, this home balances straightforward design with useful
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