$276,529Average Value$163Average Price per Sq Ft63Homes 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
Michael Jensen,
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 114 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Rice Lake, WI over the last 12 months is $259,900, up 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Still renting?? Now you can own!! This cozy 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom home in Rice Lake is now available. New roof in 2023, new siding in 2024, carpet replaced in 2024/2025, and a new furnace installed in 2021, so you can move in knowing the pricey upgrades have already been done. The oversized primary bedroom offers lots of natural lighting and walks out to your private deck overlooking the
Million-dollar view awaits you! Spectacular panorama of the lake. Imagine watching the 4th of July fireworks from your patio without leaving the comfort of your home. The peace and calm of fishing off your own dock. Enjoy watching the ice races in the winter from the warmth of your living room. The seller will be leaving the dock and boat lift. Spacious living room. Beautiful flower bed in the
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.
Still renting?? Now you can own!! This cozy 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom home in Rice Lake is now available. New roof in 2023, new siding in 2024, carpet replaced in 2024/2025, and a new furnace installed in 2021, so you can move in knowing the pricey upgrades have already been done. The oversized primary bedroom offers lots of natural lighting and walks out to your private deck overlooking the
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
Located just minutes from the schools & new aquatic center, this beautifully maintained home offers comfort, convenience & space for the whole family. Step into the home through the large entryway w/ample storage that sets the tone for the generous layout throughout. Enjoy cooking & entertaining in the updated kitchen, complete w/new stainless steel appliances. The upper level features three
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
Move in ready lovingly maintained 3 bedroom 2 bath home located in the heart of Rice Lake. The yard has been painted with beautiful low maintenance flower gardens that make you feel like you are in the country. This home boasts many updates including a new roof & gutters in 2023 including a re-insulated attic and hot water tank in 2024. Smart floor plan with updated kitchen including all new
Enjoy the best of both worlds with this spacious home offering a country feel and convenient city amenities! Situated on a generous 0.64-acre lot, this property features a stunning 28' x 40' fully finished shed—complete with in-floor heat—perfect for storing all your toys or creating the ultimate workshop. Step inside to a large, welcoming entryway with plenty of space for coats, boots, and
The 1/2 Kennedy plan, one of C&M Construction's most sought-after designs, 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 enjoy enhanced energy
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
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
Cozy one bedroom/one bathroom home for rent in Rice Lake. Property features a detached garage and spacious yard. Tenant handles utilities, lawncare, and snow removal. Conveniently located near Menards and Kohl's with easy access to Highway 53. Pets are allowed with additional rent.
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.
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.
Updated 3 bed, 1 bath house with basement for recreation or extra storage space. 1 car detached garage. Enjoy the yard space and the easy access to schools and shopping. $1500 per month. Tenant is responsible for all utilities, lawn care, garbage, and snow removal.
Budget-friendly studio apartment with all utilities included for $625 per month in Rice Lake, Wisconsin. This ground-level studio unit in an eight-unit building is approximately 150 square feet and includes one bathroom. The space is compact and ideal for one occupant.The apartment features a 10 cubic foot refrigerator, microwave, and a small kitchenette area with a sink and food prep
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