$269,126Average Value$164Average Price per Sq Ft26Homes For Sale
Sparta is a bedroom community with lots of local charm
A bedroom community of La Crosse and the Fort McCoy military base, Sparta attracts new residents with relatively low housing costs and small-town charm. “Sparta is close to the La Crosse area, where there are lots of restaurants and shopping,” says Tara Campbell, a Sparta native and top-producing Realtor with Coulee Real Estate & Property Management. “A lot of military people want to live in Sparta because it’s close to the Fort McCoy base and their spouse can still work in La Crosse.” The community is connected to surrounding towns by the Elroy-Sparta State Trail and centered on a small downtown district, which transforms into a festive holiday market in the winter. On the neighborhood’s east side, vast fields host the annual Butterfest, adjacent to the sprawling Memorial Park on the banks of Perch Lake.
Fort McCoy is a US Army Reserve site between Sparta and Tomah, with several US armed forces branches operating within.
Sparta had a population of 10,025 as of the 2020 census.
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Expanding housing inventory with a wide range of home styles
Most of the homes in Sparta were developed in the early- to mid-20th century, though more homes were added on the north side in the late 20th century, and suburban-style developments have been popping up on the south side in the last few decades. Ranch-style, bi-levels and multistory new traditional homes are the most common housing styles across the board. However, older areas near downtown are also home to many well-maintained American Foursquare and Victorian homes, some of which have been converted into multifamily apartment buildings with between two and five units. Depending on size and condition, most homes and multifamily properties range from $100,00 to $550,000. Fixer-uppers and investment properties might sell for under $100,000.
Bi-level houses are some of the most common found in Sparta, with a variety of entries and porch styles.
You can find American Foursquare houses scattered throughout Sparta, many of which have been converted into multifamily homes.
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Traditional and charter schools in the Sparta Area School District
The Sparta Area School District earns a B-minus from Niche, educating over 2,800 students across eight schools. There are several tuition-free public charter options like the Innovations STEM Academy, which serves sixth through eighth grade students while prioritizing individualized education. Due to budgeting issues, the district had to close several schools at the end of the 2020-21 school year, with the additional closure of Cataract Elementary at the end of the 2021-22 school year. In November 2024, residents voted to pass a Facilities Referendum, increasing the district’s operating budget. The additional revenue will be used to renovate parts of Sparta High School and complete several other projects across the district, though these efforts are in the early stages as of spring 2025.
Innovations STEM Academy in Sparta has a student-to-teacher ratio of 16 to 1.
Sparta High School's football team is called The Spartans.
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Bike trails, a fishing lake and lots of public sports facilities
Sparta was the first community in America to institute a Rails to Trails program, converting old railroad tracks into the over 30-mile Elroy-Sparta State Trail. More trails wind through the center of town, with a small pedestrian bridge over Beaver Creek where couples leave engraved padlocks as a symbol of their love. Memorial Park, the largest of several city-owned parks, spans 60 acres on the banks of Perch Lake, where locals go boating and fishing in the summer. The park also has many athletic facilities, including an indoor hockey and skating rink hosting youth sports leagues. The public River Run Golf Course offers 18 holes over 150 acres.
The Elroy-Sparta State Trail, a 32.5-mile long rail-to-trail, is considered the first in the United States and is popular for bicycling.
The Sparta Love Lock Bridge in Sparta, WI is a pedestrian bridge where couples are encouraged to leave padlocks, symbolizing their commitment to each other.
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Mom and pop shops downtown and a small selection of larger chains
Sparta’s downtown district, centered on Water Street, houses bars, small businesses and coffee shops. Local staples include Matsumoto Ramen House and Ginny’s Cupboard, a small counter-service sandwich shop. Near downtown is the Deke Slayton Memorial Space and Bike Museum, which has small exhibits telling the story of the museum’s namesake, a Sparta native and one of America’s earliest astronauts. More dining spots and fast-food options line Wisconsin Street, including Rudy’s Drive In Restaurant, a 1950s-style eatery serving American fare. Sparta has a Walmart and an Aldi; locals drive to La Crosse for other large retailers.
Ginny's Cupboard in Sparta offers a variety of sandwiches and soups, plus a complete espresso drink menu.
The Deke Slayton Memorial Space and Bicycle Museum serves as a memorial for the famed astronaut from Sparta.
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Community events, including carnival rides and holiday markets
One of the most popular community events in town, Sparta’s annual Butterfest takes place in June at the corner of Montgomery Street and Rusk Avenue. The four-day festival includes carnival rides, a petting zoo and a Sunday parade. Starting in November, the community hosts a European-style outdoor holiday market in the downtown district called Kriskindlemarkt every weekend for four weeks. “Kriskindlemarkt has been growing like crazy,” Campbell says. “They set up these little sheds with different small businesses, and the selection changes every weekend.” The market’s food vendors sell holiday comfort foods like roasted nuts, brats and warm glühwein.
Butterfest in Sparta's main attraction is its carnival, which boasts over a dozen rides.
Butterfest in Sparta was named after the city's history of award-winning butter makers.
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Commuting on Interstate 90
Located on Interstate 90, Sparta is about 10 miles from Fort McCoy and less than 30 miles from La Crosse. Mayo Clinic Health System Sparta is the only hospital in town, and La Crosse Regional Airport is about 30 miles away. There is no public transit in Sparta, but Greyhound buses provide some intercity transit.
Written By
Andi Sink
Photography Contributed By
Scott Mason Bittinger
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Sparta, WI sell after 32 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Sparta, WI over the last 12 months is $252,000, down 4% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to this spacious 5-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in Sparta, WI, full of character and potential! Previously used as a duplex, the layout could still offer duplex possibilities, or be used as one large home. Featuring grand classic finishes, gorgeous oversized windows, and large family and living rooms, this home has plenty of charm waiting to shine again. With some updating and repairs needed,
Welcome to 914 Walrath St, a charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home nestled in the serene community of Sparta, WI. This delightful property boasts a classic clawfoot tub, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Enjoy the convenience of main floor laundry, making chores a breeze. The fenced-in backyard is ideal for pets and outdoor gatherings, featuring two garden sheds for extra storage or your
Enjoy the simplicity and comfort of ranch-style living with this 3-bedroom, 1-bath home. Offering a practical layout with all bedrooms conveniently located on one side of the home, creating separation from the main living and utility spaces. The attached 1-car garage enters near the laundry area and basement access for everyday convenience. Outside, enjoy both a spacious front yard and backyard
Wake up each day to the peace and privacy of country living at 7569 County Road Q in Sparta. Nestled on just under 20 acres, this beautiful 3-bedroom, 3-bath home offers the space you've been searching for, both inside and out. Two large living/family rooms provide plenty of room to gather with loved ones, entertain guests, or simply unwind and enjoy the quiet surroundings. Step outside onto one
Welcome home to this spacious 5-bedroom, 2-bath property offering plenty of room to gather, relax, and make your own. With generous living and entertaining spaces, there's flexibility for hosting guests, creating a home office, or enjoying extra room for everyday life. Step outside to a large fenced-in backyard, perfect for pets, play, gardening, or summer get-togethers. With space both inside
Enjoy the simplicity and comfort of ranch-style living with this 3-bedroom, 1-bath home. Offering a practical layout with all bedrooms conveniently located on one side of the home, creating separation from the main living and utility spaces. The attached 1-car garage enters near the laundry area and basement access for everyday convenience. Outside, enjoy both a spacious front yard and backyard
39-Acre Driftless Region Trophy Whitetail Hunting Farm or Rural RetreatLocated in the legendary Driftless Region of Monroe County, this 39-acre turnkey hunting and recreational property offers a rare opportunity to own a farm that has been strategically designed and managed for mature whitetail deer. Situated just a short distance from the interstate and within an easy drive of La Crosse,
222-Acre Driftless Region Trophy Whitetail Hunting Farm!Located in the legendary Driftless Region of Monroe County, this 222-acre turnkey hunting and recreational property is a rare opportunity to own a farm that has been strategically designed and managed for mature whitetail deer. Situated just a short distance from the interstate and an easy drive to La Crosse, the property offers both
Discover 22.46 acres just minutes from Sparta with excellent access and visibility. Conveniently located approximately 4 minutes from Kwik Trip and 10 minutes from Walmart. The property features frontage on both Hwy 71 and Imperial Road, offering multiple access points and potential for future development, subject to zoning and approvals. Approximately 7 acres are wooded, with the remaining
Step into this charming 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, where comfort and style come together. The spacious living area flows effortlessly into the dining room and opens to a completely remodeled, modern kitchen — truly the heart of the home. Head upstairs via the unique staircase to find three well-appointed bedrooms, including a generously sized primary suite with plenty of room to spare. Two
Affordability meets comfort and convenience in this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath townhome! The main level offers a comfortable living room, kitchen, and dining area, with laminate flooring throughout, convenient laundry and storage, and an attached 1-car garage. Three spacious bedrooms provide flexibility for household needs. The open bonus area on the upper level is a fantastic flex
Great location for your new business! Just on the outskirts of the city! Large lot for many opportunities like bands, volleyball courts, extra parking or even an expansion of the building! Or take your ideas outside the box! Property is located on the Sparta Golf Course! There is a bridge connecting properties! So, get creative with this property!
Enjoy comfortable living in the heart of Sparta at Black River Apartments! These spacious apartments offer convenience, affordability, and a great location in one of western Wisconsin’s most charming communities.Sparta is known as the “Bicycling Capital of America,” home to the famous 32-mile Elroy–Sparta State Trail, the first rail-to-trail conversion in the United States and a popular
Property Id: 2802722 Enjoy peaceful country living in this charming 3-bedroom, 1-bath ranch home situated on approximately 1.5 acres just outside Sparta. With 1,448 sq. ft. of main-level living space, this home offers a comfortable layout with a spacious living room, kitchen, dining area, three bedrooms, full bathroom, and convenient main-floor laundry. The home features beautiful open-beam
This inviting 3-bedroom, 2-bath home. offers over 2,200 square feet of comfortable living space and is move-in ready! The beautifully renovated kitchen features updated cabinetry, creating a space that is both stylish and functional. With generous living space, thoughtful updates and a history of exceptional care.You will be happy to call this place home!
*COMMERCIAL SOTREFRONT SPACE ONLY* Clean, Downtown storefront commercial space for rent. Front reception area, 2 private office rooms, 1 large conference room. Kitchenette/break room with stove and refrigerator. Bathroom with accessible shower. Lots of storage area in full basement. Gas furnace, Central A/C, energy efficient LED lighting throughout. $600/mo. $600 Security Deposit
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