Oconto offers waterside living on the outskirts of Green Bay
Oconto rests about 35 miles north of Green Bay, Wisconsin. The community consists of the city of Oconto and its more rural surrounding areas. “It’s near the water, so it’s definitely nice there,” says Nadine Meacham, Realtor and owner of Resource One Realty, who has lived in the area her whole life. “It appeals to people who want to live on the outskirts of the big city — it’s more like small-town living.” Despite its small-town feel, Oconto has its own hospital and school system, as well as a variety of businesses.
Some historical homes and a few waterfront properties
Sidewalks line many city streets, and outside the city limits, houses tend to rest at the end of long, private driveways. Oconto’s housing styles include Cape Cods, bungalows and a few well-preserved Queen Annes. “Most of the homes are older — there’s not a ton of new construction in the area,” Meacham says. Fixer-uppers sometimes sell between $60,000 and $130,000. The majority of sales fall between $130,000 and $390,000, but waterfront residences or houses on multiacre lots tend to range from $240,000 to $600,000. The area's CAP Index Crime Score is 2 out of 10, well below the national average of 4. Snowmelt and heavy storms can cause the river to flood, so lenders may require flood insurance.
Most students attend Oconto Unified schools
The far western part of the community is zoned for the Lena School District, which earns a C-plus on Niche, but most students are served by the B-minus-rated Oconto Unified School District. Oconto Elementary School gets a C-plus rating, and Oconto Middle School receives a B-minus. Oconto High School also earns a B-minus, and it offers the Early College Credit Program, which enables students to earn credits from participating state colleges while completing their diploma requirements.
Oconto River recreation and several parks
The Oconto River is one of the main destinations, especially in warmer months. “People go tubing down the river, and the fishing is also really good,” Meacham says. Boaters can launch at the many private marinas and pay-as-you-go public boat ramps along the riverbanks.
Not all recreation revolves around the river, however. At Oconto City Park, there’s a playground and a sandy beach along Green Bay. The Oconto Marsh, in the northern part of the community, provides a peaceful spot for birding. Youth sports teams practice on the fields at Holtwood Sporting Complex & Park, and during the long, cold winters, locals can ice skate on the pond in Sharp Park or cross-country ski along its trails.
Groceries, fishing gear and homemade pies are all nearby
Oconto has several locally owned dining spots. At The Shop on Main — housed in a converted auto garage — patrons can order specialty coffee drinks and fresh pastries. The Dockside rests near the mouth of the Oconto River, and as its name might suggest, it’s a favorite among boaters. River City Diner & Smokehouse is known for its slow-smoked brisket and homemade pies.
Residents can do most of their day-to-day shopping in Oconto. Thompson's County Market carries a full range of groceries, and the North Shore Bait Company stocks fishing supplies. There’s also a pharmacy, as well as a bookstore and hardware shops. For additional selections, people often drive into Green Bay or Marinette, Meacham says.
Copperfest is the community’s main event
The community hosts events throughout the year, but Copperfest tends to draw the largest crowds. The multiday gathering takes place in June, and it features a parade, live music and family-friendly entertainment, such as pony rides and duck races. In September, people gather for Harvest Fest, a day-long street festival with vendors and live music, and Santa comes to visit The Shop on Main in mid-December.
Health care in Oconto, and U.S. Route 41 is the main thoroughfare
Residents have access to emergency care and specialists at Bellin Health Oconto Hospital, and the Prevea Oconto Health Center offers primary care. Both facilities are also major employers for the community. Indian Trails buses make stops in Oconto, connecting riders to larger cities, like Sault Saint Marie and Green Bay. Many locals depend on cars for travel, and U.S. Route 41 runs toward Green Bay, about 35 miles south, as well as Marinette, around 25 miles north. The Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport is less than 40 miles away.
