$276,831Average Value$162Average Price per Sq Ft59Homes For Sale
Outdoor enthusiasts are right at home in Rice Lake
With daily views of its namesake, along with scenic rivers and tree-lined, small-town streetscapes, it’s easy to understand why Rice Like is a popular tourist destination in the northwestern corner of Wisconsin. But there's more, says Cherie Jenkins, a Realtor with Jenkins Realty, Inc. “I’ve lived here all my life, and I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else,” she says. “Small towns aren’t for everyone, but this one is hard not to love with its location, scenery and easy-going people.”
With year-round events, including festivals, fairs, circuses and rodeos, there’s always something going on. The city is an outdoor athlete’s haven with sports parks and trails surrounding the lake. The 104-mile Wild Rivers State Trail passes through as the state's longest such route for all-terrain vehicles, snowmobiles, skiers, cyclists and pedestrians. Beyond the city, the famous Northwoods region is known for its forests, streams and rivers. “It may sound cliché, but Rice Lake really does have a lot to offer, Jenkins says."There are plenty of ways to be entertained here that you won’t find in similar-sized towns. Plus, we’re an hour from Eau Claire and two hours from the Twin Cities.”
Rice Lake is located in the heart of Wisconsin.
The Wild Rivers State Trail is an atv and snowmobile trail that passes through Rice Lake.
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Manufacturing, retail and healthcare lead the way in Rice Lake
Rice Lake is the shopping, educational and medical hub for the surrounding communities of Cameron, Chetek, Shell Lake and Cumberland. Leading industries include manufacturing, retail and healthcare. The city’s largest employers include Rice Lake Weighing Systems and Marshfield Medical Center. New businesses include Allram Lumber Company and Northwoods Cycle.
Marshfield Medical center is one of the largest employers in Rice Lake.
Rice Lake bike enthusiasts frequent Northwoods Cycle for gear and repairs.
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New homes are available inside and outside the city limits
“Because the job market is strong, housing sells well in Rice Lake,” says Jenkins. “We’re blessed with a healthy inventory of homes of varying sizes and ages, so no matter what you want, you can probably find it.” The median home price is $265,000, compared to the higher national median. Century-old cottages sell from $60,000 to $200,000, while homes in new subdivisions have recently sold from $260,000 to $400,000. Lakefront retreats with acreage can sell for as much as $800,000.
There are rows of new duplex townhomes on Sherwood Dr.
Residents in Rice Lake have a variety of home styles to choose from.
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Eye-catching parks and well-appointed sports complexes
Veterans Memorial Park overlooks Rice Lake with its War Memorial and a Civil War monument. The bandshell anchors Music in the Park in August, while the World Harvest Picnic and Celebration brings hundreds of people each summer. Lakefront Park is a greenway dotted with sculptures by local artists and massive oak trees. Sports complexes provide soccer, baseball and football fields. Rice Lake Hockey Arena is home to youth hockey leagues and summer camp programs.
Visit the WWII memorial at Veterans Memorial Park.
Wooly the Mammoth is a unique sculpture near Indian Mounds Park on Rice Lake.
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Highly rated Rice Lake Area School District
Rice Lake Area School District is graded B-plus by Niche and receives A grades for its teachers, clubs and activities. Rice Lake High students are encouraged to pursue career pathways that provide collaborative work/study opportunities with local businesses. The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire at Barron County is one of the closest public universities. According to U.S. News & World Report, it is among the top undergraduate research universities in the nation.
Rice Lake High School serves grades 9-12.
Rice Lake is home to the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire-Barron County.
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A revitalized downtown increases accessibility
In 2023, Rice Lake’s Main Street unveiled $3 million of improvements and a new look for downtown. The renovations better accommodate pedestrian and bicycle traffic and welcome shoppers with easy parking and gathering spaces. Benches, outdoor sculptures, planters and mini green spaces offer points of interest. Breweries, restaurants, coffee shops and cafes are easier to access and more visible with slower traffic. Longstanding cultural attractions include Red Barn Theater, the Barron County Fair and the Rice Lake Curling Club.
Rice Lake's Main Street is a stretch of shops and restaurants that has undergone changes throughout the years.
Rice Lake is home to the Barron County Fair and the Barron County Pro Rodeo.
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Mild summers and snowy winters define the climate in Rice Lake
While summers are relatively short in northwest Wisconsin, residents enjoy mild temperatures rarely exceeding 88 degrees. Winter sports match well with the common weather of the season, helping Rice Lake to serve as a 12-month destination. According to FBI data, reported rates of violent crimes in Rice Lake since 2020 have been slightly higher than the national and state average, while property crimes for the same period have been mostly lower than both averages.
Getting around Rice Lake
Car travel is the primary form of transportation. Public transportation is limited to privately run shuttle bus and taxi services. Rice Lake is 60 miles north of Eau Claire via U.S. Highway 53. U.S. Highway 48 bisects the city east-west, stretching across the state. Minneapolis/Saint Paul is 100 miles southwest. The closest commercial airport is Eau Claire Airport, 56 miles south.
Written By
Sarah Albiston
Photography Contributed By
Tyler McNair
Video By
EB Fox
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Joe Germain,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Rice Lake, WI sell after 107 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Rice Lake, WI over the last 12 months is $267,500, up 14% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to the C&M Home Builders Harrison plan! This stunning house offers a range of impressive features and makes exceptional use of every square foot of living space. The stainless appliances in the kitchen add a touch of modern elegance, while the convenience of main floor laundry ensures practicality. The master suite includes a spacious walk-in closet for all your storage needs. With its
The Kennedy single family plan is one of C&M Construction's most sought-after designs. This plan offers an impressive layout that is both spacious and inviting. This meticulously crafted home boasts a range of desirable features, including stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, and fully landscaped surroundings. With the added advantage of a Focus on Energy certification, homeowners can
Welcome to this stunning C&M 4-bedroom Wilson Plan home! Step inside and be captivated by the custom cabinetry, stylish selections and upgraded trim and doors showcasing our fine craftsmanship. The kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, and functional layout. The Wilson plan also offers a spacious mudroom/laundry off the garage. All of C&M Construction's plans are Focus on Energy Certified
This fully updated home offers modern comfort and quality finishes throughout, featuring an open main living area floor plan with large windows that provide abundant natural light and a great view. Recent improvements include a brand-new kitchen, new laminate flooring, updated plumbing and electrical, and a new roof. The exterior showcases durable brick and LP Smart siding, along with an updated
Level, cleared vacant lot ready for your new construction. Excellent opportunity for future development once available. Lot is not to be sold until the adjacent home located at 1735 Augusta St. has successfully sold. Sale of this lot is contingent upon the prior sale of the neighboring property. Please contact listing agent with any questions regarding timing or details.
This fully updated home offers modern comfort and quality finishes throughout, featuring an open main living area floor plan with large windows that provide abundant natural light and a great view. Recent improvements include a brand-new kitchen, new laminate flooring, updated plumbing and electrical, and a new roof. The exterior showcases durable brick and LP Smart siding, along with an updated
Welcome to this adorable bungalow located on a quiet street in Rice Lake! This inviting home offers a comfortable layout with tasteful updates and a warm, welcoming feel throughout. Step into the main floor featuring an open kitchen, dining, and living area filled with natural light, along with a cozy bedroom and full bath. The rear entry offers a spacious area that provides flexible use; ideal
Prime investment opportunity! This well-maintained duplex is completely rental-ready, with one unit recently updated while both offer lake views and direct access to Lake Montanis boat landing. This property offers unmatched convenience and recreational appeal, attracting high-demand tenants. Each unit includes a private 2-car garage. Newer roof and siding! Don?t miss your opportunity to grow or
Nice country home with great views! Spacious 3-bedroom home with plenty of room for everyone. Upper level has a living room & family room along with a large rec room in lower level.
Great location for this buildable lot conveniently located on Highway 48 between Rice Lake and Cumberland. This nice 6 acre lot is wooded with rolling terrain.
Steven SwobodaDane Arthur Real Estate Agency/Birchwood
Exceptional buildable land opportunity in a prime location comprising two separate parcels perfect for your new home or private retreat. Mostly wooded with a small stream, cut trails and hunting grounds. Conveniently located approx 6 miles from Rice Lake, Barron, Cumberland and Haugen. Prime opportunity!
Steven SwobodaDane Arthur Real Estate Agency/Birchwood
Bring your building plans! This 3.6-acre lot is ready for you to build your dreams on. Located in the Eagle Ridge Estates, you are just minutes from downtown Rice Lake. Enjoy the peace of the countryside while also being close to stores, schools and other local amenities. Priced to sell, stake your claim today!
Imagine building your dream home in the prestigious Emerald Court neighborhood. This highly sought-after location boasts a serene cul-de-sac roadway and is within walking distance to Rice Lake Schools, fantastic shopping, delectable dining, and even a refreshing swimming pool. Experience the convenience of city water and sewer, along with natural gas readily available at your doorstep. Don't let
Discover the perfect opportunity to build your dream home on this spacious 0.69-acre lot conveniently located just minutes from Rice Lake. Nestled in a peaceful setting, this property offers a balance of privacy and accessibility. Ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat with the convenience of nearby city amenities. The lot features level terrain and ample space for a variety of home designs,
Multi-family lot which would fit multiple 4 plexes or 8 plexes or student housing. It could probably also be rezoned to commercial or light industrial.
Updated 3 bed, 2 bath apartment for $1350 per month. 2 car attached garage. Great location next to Moon Lake Park and Tainter Elementary. Lawn care, snow removal, garbage are included. Tenant is responsible for utilities. No smoking, no pets. Call for an application today!
Available NOW. This upstairs unit includes an open living room, kitchen, two bedrooms and bathroom with shower. Washer and dryer hookups available in the basement, as well as an off-street parking space for a vehicle. Tenant is responsible for utilities. Pets upon owner's approval with pet rent/deposit. Set up your showing online at or by calling Melanie at .SECURITY DEPOSIT: One
3 bedroom, 2 bath duplex with a 1 car attached garage in a desirable neighborhood. $1200 per month. Includes lawn care and snow plowing. Tenant is responsible for all utilities. No smoking. No pets. New vinyl flooring throughout. Walk out to deck. Main level. Washer and dryer hookups. Call for a showing today.
Utilities included in rent except electricity which is billed separately for each unit. Internet is tenants responsibility. Looking for a long-term renter to occupy, care for and enjoy the property. Non-smoking unit. No pets.
2 BD / 1 BA house for rent with frontage on Rice Lake. Rent is $2200 per month. Rent includes all utilities, furniture, linens, household furnishings, garage, lawn maintenance, etc. Fantastic view of the lake from the living room and dining room. Newer deck built summer of 2020, great for relaxing while taking in the lake view. No smoking in the house but it is permitted outside. Full size
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